In this week's episode, Cara is joined by Monica Woodward Luberto, RN to discuss the evolving landscape of skilled nursing facilities, focusing on wound care advancements and the upcoming CMS audit changes. Cara and Monica dive into how innovative equipment like specialized beds and wound vacs are transforming patient care, though challenges around access and cost persist, especially in rural areas. The conversation highlights the importance of electronic health records with auditing features to reduce errors, while also addressing the hurdles faced by smaller facilities still using paper charts. Tune in to discover practical strategies that can protect your facility’s reputation and ensure quality care for patients.
With more than 20 years of nursing experience, Monica Woodward Luberto, RN, has built a career at the intersection of clinical practice, compliance, and education. She has contributed to CMS-related documentation and reporting processes and now develops CEU courses that reach thousands of healthcare professionals across the country. Monica also runs Still On Call RN and founded RN Content Studio to expand her work in healthcare writing and education. She contributes regularly to national discussions on nursing practice and professional development.
Key Takeaways
- 00:04:06 - Advancements in wound care equipment, such as specialized beds and wound vacs, have significantly improved prevention and treatment, though access and cost remain challenges, especially in rural settings.
- 00:08:21 - Starting January 1, 2026, new CMS audit guidelines will target skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) with a 10% random audit of submitted MDS records, impacting reimbursement and facility reputation.
- 00:12:17 - The Minimum Data Set (MDS) form is a comprehensive, lengthy assessment tool used by SNFs to document patient status, including wounds, nutrition, and mobility, which must align precisely with clinical notes to pass audits.
- 00:17:06 - Electronic health record systems with built-in auditing features help reduce charting errors and improve compliance, but many smaller or rural facilities still rely on paper charting, increasing audit risk.
- 00:20:48 - To prepare for audits, SNFs should focus on consistent documentation, timely record submission, and strong interdisciplinary team communication, using microlearning and regular team huddles to reinforce best practices.
- 00:27:20 - Failing a CMS audit can lead to significant financial penalties, reduced Medicare reimbursements, lower facility star ratings, and damage to reputation, which affects patient referrals and family trust in the facility.
