Course Description:

This session explores the Quality Measures focused on psychotropic medications, including antipsychotics, anxiolytics, and hypnotics, as well as residents who have depressive symptoms or have behavior symptoms affecting others. Participants will explore how prescribing practices, clinical documentation, and MDS coding directly impact quality measure outcomes, Five-Star ratings, and survey risk. The session emphasizes appropriate indications, gradual dose reduction (GDR) requirements, informed consent, and non-pharmacological interventions. Practical strategies will be shared to support interdisciplinary collaboration, accurate assessment, and documentation practices that promote resident-centered care while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Learning Objectives

1. Explain the Quality Measures related to psychotropic medication use, depressive symptoms, and behaviors affecting others.

2. Apply accurate MDS coding and assessment principles.

3. Describe requirements for gradual dose reductions (GDRs), informed consent, non-pharmacological interventions, and ongoing monitoring.