I once had to figure out how to become a MDS Nurse Coordinator too. I wasn’t sure what it meant when I met nurses that did this job. I did however notice back then that they seemed to really like their jobs. I wanted to figure out how to get that position so I could really like my job too.

How do you figure out what a MDS Nurse does?

• You can go on the CMS.gov website and checkout their description of what a MDS is and why we do them.
• You can also review the educational videos that they offer.
• You can ask a MDS nurse what they do.
• You can ask your leadership if you can shadow the MDS nurse If you already work as a staff nurse in a nursing home.

Once you do the above then ask yourself:

• If this is truly what you want to do as a nurse.
• Ask yourself if you are able to take the time to learn new tasks.
• Decide if you are able to pivot from bedside nursing to a more administrative role.

I suggest if you decide this is the role that your would like to pursue that you:

• Find a facility that has a strong orientation program for a new MDS Nurse (best practice is at least 6 months of supportive orientation).
• Start in a facility as the support person not the lead MDS Nurse.
• Continue to review yearly updates related to MDS and RAI manual.

Good Luck in your Journey of deciding if this role is for you.

If you enjoyed this post please leave comments below. If you would like to suggest topics for further posts also leave comments or use contact form.

The information presented is informative and does not constitute direct legal or regulatory advice

September 2024\Skilled Nursing Support\maria.messina@skillednursingsupport.com

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