Job Description
Position Summary
The MDS Nurse is responsible for coordinating, completing, and monitoring resident assessments in accordance with federal and state regulations, CMS guidelines, and facility policies. The MDS Nurse works with nursing staff, therapy, social services, dietary, and medical providers to ensure accurate documentation that reflects each resident's clinical condition and care needs.
Essential Responsibilities
MDS Coordination & Assessment
• Complete and coordinate MDS assessments and Care Area Assessments (CAAs) in accordance with CMS regulations and established timelines.
• Ensure accurate assessment scheduling and timely submission of MDS documentation.
• Review resident records to verify documentation supports assessment coding.
• Monitor resident status changes and determine assessment requirements.
• Participate in resident care plan development and updates.
Care Planning
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to develop, implement, and update individualized care plans.
• Participate in care plan meetings with residents and families as appropriate.
• Ensure care plans accurately reflect assessed resident needs and goals.
Clinical Documentation & Compliance
• Conduct documentation reviews and audits to ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Educate nursing staff regarding documentation requirements and reimbursement-related practices.
• Maintain compliance with CMS guidelines, Medicare and Medicaid regulations, HIPAA requirements, and facility policies.
• Assist with survey preparation and regulatory reviews.
Reimbursement & Quality Measures
• Support clinical reimbursement processes through accurate assessment and documentation.
• Monitor quality measures and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with facility leadership to optimize clinical outcomes and reimbursement integrity.
• Assist in managing Medicare, managed care, and other payer requirements as assigned.
Team Collaboration
• Work collaboratively with nursing, rehabilitation, dietary, social services, activities, and medical providers.
• Serve as a resource for MDS-related questions and documentation standards.
• Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement initiatives.
Qualifications
Required
• Current, unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of employment.
• Minimum of one (1) year of nursing experience in a long-term care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitation setting.
• Knowledge of resident assessment processes and clinical documentation requirements.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records and computer applications.
Preferred
• Previous MDS experience in a skilled nursing or long-term care environment.
• Experience with Medicare, Medicaid, PDPM, and managed care reimbursement.
• RAC-CT certification or willingness to obtain certification.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Understanding of CMS regulations, MDS 3.0, RAI Manual guidelines, and PDPM.
• Ability to analyze clinical documentation and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet regulatory deadlines.
• Effective interpersonal skills with residents, families, physicians, and staff.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
Franklin Plaza – West Side of Cleveland
Rooted in the Community:
Franklin Plaza has long been a trusted care provider on Cleveland’s west side. We’re honored to support our neighbors with high-quality care and a strong sense of community.
Our Mission:
“Our Family Caring for Yours” means treating every team member like family. We believe in creating a supportive, respectful, and growth-oriented environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
What We Offer Employees:
A strong sense of purpose and community
Opportunities to grow your career in skilled nursing, assisted living, rehab, long-term care, and hospice
Full-time nurse practitioner support and interdisciplinary collaboration
A workplace that values your unique contributions and encourages continuous learning
We See You as a Whole Person:
Just like our residents, our team members have physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs. We’re committed to supporting your well-being and helping you succeed.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all applicants for positions without the regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, national orientation, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, or non-job-related handicap or disability.