The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has issued a new Minimum Data Set sheet to clarify providers’ questions on coding for fluids administered for nutrition and hydration.

The MDS tip sheet, which is offered as part of the second phase of the Data Assessment and Verification program, or DAVE 2, outlines the MDS coding rationale for this particular item.

The focus of DAVE 2 is to assure MDS accuracy of assessment data. Findings during DAVE 2 site visits will be used to develop training materials and guide improvements to MDS coding guidelines.

The tip sheet is at http://newsmanager.commpartners.com/mecf/downloads/2007_June_19/DAVE_TipSheet_SectionK5_05152007_Minutes.pdf. More on DAVE 2 is at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/NursingHomeQualityInits/30_NHQIDAVE2.asp