What constitutes a "significant change" that necessitates a new MDS assessment?

A significant change that requires a new Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment is characterized by a marked decline in physical or mental health. This is crucial because the MDS is a comprehensive assessment tool used to capture a wide array of data regarding a resident's health status and care needs. When there is a notable deterioration in a resident's condition, it reflects a change that may affect their care plan, interventions, and resources required to maintain or improve their health.

Detecting such declines allows for timely adjustments in care strategies, ensuring that residents receive appropriate and effective support tailored to their evolving health status. This change is fundamental in long-term care settings, as it underlines the need for ongoing evaluation and personalized care that correspond to the individual needs of residents.