Updated RAI Manual

NOW AVAILABLE: Final MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual version 1.20.11

The final Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) User’s Manual version (v)1.20.11 is now available in the Downloads section on the Minimum Data Set (MDS) 3.0 Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) Manual page. The MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual v1.20.11 will be effective beginning October 1, 2026.

This version of the MDS 3.0 RAI User’s Manual includes several key refinements, including:

• Chapters 1, 2, and 3: Clarified that State or payer requirements do not replace, modify, or add to CMS coding requirements for non-Section S items.
• Chapter 2: Assessments for the RAI: New information regarding resident transfers during a public health emergency.
• Section A: Identification Information: Updated ethnicity and race reassessment guidance and removed the resident interview icon from several items.
• Sections C: Cognitive Patterns and D: Mood: Clarified language for coding when multiple resident interviews are conducted during the look-back period (e.g., Brief Interview for Mental Status [BIMS] and Resident Mood Interview [PHQ-2 to 9^©]).
• Section M: Skin Conditions: Updated guidance regarding coding pressure ulcers/injuries that are present on admission and that subsequently heal then reopen; added new information on advanced wound care dressings, skin substitutes, and adhesive bandages.
• Section O: Special Treatments, Procedures, and Programs: Refined isolation criteria and skilled respiratory therapy guidance.
• Chapter 6: Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility Prospective Payment System (SNF PPS): Revised terminology related to depression signs and symptoms.

Various minor alignments, clarifications, and corrections have been implemented throughout; specifics can be found in the included chapter/section change tables following the guidance.