Q: What is a standardized tool for OASIS-C?
A: There are three data elements in OASIS-C that require the use of a standardized tool for assessment or screening: M1240, pain assessment, M1730, depression screening, and M1910, fall risk assessment. To check “yes,” (that an assessment or screening was done), the clinician must use a tool that has been scientifically tested and validated as effective in identifying a specified condition or risk in population being evaluated (community-dwelling elderly). This tool includes a standard response scale and it must be administered following the established instructions.
As with other process data elements in OASIS-C, an agency does not have to change its processes to incorporate standardized tools. However, if the clinician evaluates the patient without a standardized tool, the answer would be “no.”
Note that M1300, pressure ulcer risk assessment, allows the clinician to determine risk by either using a standardized tool, which must meet the criteria, or evaluating the patient based on clinical criteria, such as incontinence, mobility, and nutrition.
The audio recording, “The Good and Bad about the New OASIS-C Data Elements,” discusses standardized tools and best practices for depression screening. Find out the other topics in this educational program at — http://www.beaconhealth.org/item–The-Good-and-Bad-about-New-OASIS-C-Data-Elements–J111909D.html.
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July 29th, 2010 at 3:32 pm
The client’s Oasis Pain assessment documents the clients pain at Present level 3/10 Worst level 9/10 Best level 1-2. In answering the M1240 would the appropriate answer be #2 Yes, and it indicates severe pain. The client’s M1242 score is #2. I would think that if a client experiences level 9 pain at any time it would indicate severe pain and a M1240 score of #2.
September 1st, 2010 at 9:46 am
CMS has also included specific instructions regarding this M item. “The standardized tool must be adnministered as indicated in the instructions and must be relevant for the patient’s ability to respond. Severe pain is defined according to the scoring system for the standardized tool being used.”