Since the implementation of OASIS-C, one of the most frequently asked questions refers to the utilization of standardized tools in assessments and screenings.
The following is a breakdown of data elements which include the use of a standardized tool.
M1240, pain assessment
The data element: Has the patient had a formal pain assessment using a standardized pain assessment tool (appropriate to the patient’s ability to communicate the severity of pain)? The homecare professional can answer:
0: No standardized assessment conducted
1: Yes, and it does not indicate severe pain
2: Yes, and it indicates severe pain
Purpose: The OASIS-C Guidance Manual explains that M1240’s intent is to see whether the standardized assessment was conducted, and, if it was, what level of pain was determined. The item is used to calculate process measures to capture an agency’s use of best practices after the assessment was completed.
Standardized tool: For a pain assessment, a standardized tool must include a standard response scale. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) doesn’t endorse a particular tool to use, but there are several that have been tested and are available for provider use. Examples include:
- Visual analog scales
- Numerical scales
- Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale
- Memorial Pain Assessment Card
This is an excerpt from the article “Using Standardized Tools to Improve Outcomes”, which originally appeared in the June 2010 edition of Homecare Administrator. Learn more about Homecare Administrator here!
Wed, Jun 9, 2010
Data Elements