A2300: Assessment Reference Date (ARD)- Step-by-Step Coding Guide

Step-by-Step Coding Guide for A2300: Assessment Reference Date (ARD)

Instructions:

1. Understanding ARD:

   • The ARD is the end point of the observation period, ensuring all assessment items refer to the resident’s status during the same timeframe. It serves as the reference point for determining the care and services documented on the MDS assessment.

2. Selecting the ARD:

   • The interdisciplinary team selects the ARD based on the reason for the assessment and to comply with timing and scheduling requirements detailed in Chapter 2 of the CMS’s RAI Version 3.0 Manual.

3. Documenting the ARD:

   • Enter the ARD using the format MM-DD-YYYY. If the month or day is a single digit, precede it with a “0”. For instance, October 2, 2023, should be entered as 10-02-2023.

4. Observation Period:

   • The observation period refers to the days leading up to and including the ARD. For example, for a 7-day observation period, data is collected for the 7 days ending on the ARD. All events and observations up to the end of the day (midnight) of the ARD are included.

5. Discharge Assessments:

   • For discharge assessments, the discharge date (A2000) and the ARD (A2300) must be the same.

6. Adjusting the ARD for Early Discharge:

   • If the resident dies or is discharged before the end of the observation period, the ARD must be adjusted to match the discharge date.

7. Impact of Temporary Leaves:

   • Temporary leaves, such as home visits or hospital stays of less than 24 hours without admission, are included in the observation period. Events during the leave and the return to the facility should be considered when determining the ARD and completing the assessment.

8. Coordination with Interdisciplinary Team:

   • Collaboration with the interdisciplinary team is essential to ensure the ARD is appropriately set to capture all relevant information and comply with regulatory requirements.

9. Compliance with Scheduling Requirements:

   • Ensure adherence to specific scheduling requirements for comprehensive and quarterly assessments, including the timing related to the resident's admission, significant changes in condition, and quarterly review dates.

Remember: The accurate setting of the ARD in A2300 is crucial for ensuring the MDS assessment accurately reflects the resident's status and guides care planning. It requires careful planning and coordination within the interdisciplinary team to meet both the resident's needs and regulatory requirements​​.

The Step-by-Step Coding Guide for item A2300 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. 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.