Minimum Data Set Nurse

Explore More Nursing Specialties

BASIC DESCRIPTION

Minimum data set (MDS) nurses are long-term care nurses specializing in assessing the needs of long-term care residents. They are responsible for ensuring that MDS assessments are conducted regularly and that care is coordinated among long-term care residents. MDS is a tool that assesses quality of care among long-term care residents and that has a significant influence in payment and reimbursement of skilled nursing care provided.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor of Science in Nursing is often required; certification can be obtained from the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators.

CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED

â–  Meticulous attention to details
â–  Knowledge of state and federal long-term care regulatory standards
â–  Basic computer skills
â–  Ability to work with interdisciplinary teams
â–  Significant long-term care experience

RELATED WEB SITE AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION

â–  American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators (http://www.aanac.org/)