Question: I need clarification regarding the CAA notes: I was understanding that anything that triggers we would address in the care plan. Do we have to address every single CAA note even if it does not trigger? Answer from Jennifer LaBay RN, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, CRC: Not every item that triggers …
Question: During our annual survey, I was questioned about coding methenamine as an antibiotic on the MDS. I had coded it based on information received from AAPACN and references discussed in this forum. The surveyor appreciated the reference but disagreed, stating that the medication is an anti-infective rather than an …
Question: Is a signed diagnosis list enough to support coding diagnoses in section I, or does the physician need to document the diagnosis as active in their notes? Answer from Jennifer LaBay RN, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, CRC: Just having a diagnosis list signed by a physician is not quite enough. There …
New Nursing Home Administrator Certification aims to strengthen leadership, operations and quality outcomes in long-term care DENVER, Co., May 14, 2026 — The American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN®) today announced the launch of its Nursing Home Administrator Certification (NHA-CT), a first-of-its-kind program designed specifically to support nursing home …
In this LTC DON Chat podcast episode, Amy Stewart, MSN, RN, DNS-MT, QCP-MT, RAC-MT, RAC-MTA, chief nursing officer for AAPACN, and Denise Winzeler, BSN, RN, LNHA, DNS-MT, QCP-MT, director of education and certification strategy for AAPACN, give listeners an inside look at AAPACN’s brand new certification program, the Nursing Home …
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Orientation for a new nurse assessment coordinator (NAC) is a very complex and long process. It is important to establish a realistic schedule that will allow for effective learning but will not be overwhelming. AAPACN’s new 10-Week NAC Orientation Guide will help pace the orientation process and set the foundation …
Dobson DaVanzo analysis links AAPACN certification to higher CMS Star Ratings, stronger staffing, and improved financial outcomes DENVER, Co., May 12, 2026 — The American Association of Post-Acute Care Nursing (AAPACN®) today released new research conducted by Dobson DaVanzo & Associates showing that skilled nursing facilities employing AAPACN-certified nurses deliver …
This tool is designed to help facilities ensure the safe, appropriate, and compliant use of psychotropic medications. It guides staff through a structured review of each resident’s medication, including diagnosis support, informed consent, behavior documentation, non-pharmalogical interventions, gradual dose reductions, and care plan alignment. By using this audit regularly, facilities …
The deadline to submit healthcare personnel (HCP) influenza vaccination data in the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s (CDC) National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) system is May 18, 2026. This reporting is required for the SNF Quality Reporting Program (QRP) and covers the period October 1, 2025, through March 31, …
Celebrating the AAPACN Education Foundation 2026 Scholarship Recipients For many, post-acute care isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. Driven by a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of long-term care residents, these dedicated professionals often aspire to further their education to better serve their communities. The AAPACN Education Foundation turns …
