Step-by-Step Guide for A1700: Type of Entry

1. Understand the Purpose of A1700: A1700 records the type of entry into the facility, differentiating between admission and reentry, which is essential for accurate resident tracking and care management.

2. Identify the Type of Entry:

   • Admission: The first time the resident has entered the facility for care.
   • Reentry: The resident had previously been admitted, discharged, and has now returned to the facility.

3. Review the Resident's History:

   • Examine the resident’s admission records, previous MDS assessments, and discharge information to accurately determine if the current entry is an admission or a reentry.
   • Consult with the admissions office or use the facility’s electronic health record (EHR) system to verify the resident's history if necessary.

4. Consult with the Resident and Family (if applicable):

   • Engage in a conversation with the resident and their family or representative to gather additional context about the resident's entry into the facility, especially if this is a reentry and the circumstances around the previous discharge and current entry are not clear.

5. Coding A1700:

   • Code 1 for Admission: If this is the resident's first time entering the facility for care.
   • Code 2 for Reentry: If the resident is returning to the facility after a previous stay and discharge. Ensure that any temporary leave or hospital stay details are reviewed to differentiate between temporary absences and formal discharges.

6. Document Supporting Information:

   • In the resident’s record, include notes or a summary of the information that supported the coding decision, such as admission records, discussions with the resident or family, and any relevant documentation from previous stays (for reentries).

7. Review and Verify:

   • Double-check the coded entry against the resident’s history and documentation to ensure accuracy.
   • Have another member of the healthcare team review the coding if there is any uncertainty or discrepancy in the resident’s entry history.

8. Finalize and Submit:

   • Once verified, finalize the coding in the MDS assessment.
   • Ensure that A1700’s coding is consistent with other sections of the MDS that may be influenced by the resident’s entry status, such as care plans and interventions.

Additional Notes:

• Always refer to the latest CMS RAI Manual guidelines for A1700 to capture any updates or changes in coding instructions.
• Training and regular updates for staff involved in MDS completion can help maintain accuracy in coding and documentation practices.

The Step-by-Step Coding Guide for item A1700 in MDS 3.0 Section A is based on the Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.18.11, dated October 2023. Please note that healthcare guidelines, policies, and regulations can undergo frequent updates. Therefore, healthcare professionals must ensure they are referencing the most current version of the MDS 3.0 manual. This guide aims to assist with understanding and applying the coding procedures as outlined in the referenced manual version. However, in cases where there are updates or changes to the manual after the mentioned date, users should refer to the latest version of the manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The guide should not substitute for professional judgment and the consultation of the latest regulatory guidelines in the healthcare field.