How long after admission must a comprehensive assessment be completed according to regulations?

The comprehensive assessment is a critical process in nursing home care as it establishes a detailed understanding of each resident's needs, strengths, and preferences. According to federal regulations, the comprehensive assessment must be completed within 14 days of admission. This timeframe is essential because it allows nursing home staff to gather necessary information about the resident's medical history, functional abilities, cognitive status, and psychosocial needs promptly. Completing this assessment within 14 days ensures that residents receive timely and appropriate care tailored to their individual circumstances.

While the other timeframes provided may seem reasonable, they do not align with the regulatory requirements. Completing the assessment within 7 days could be too rushed to gather complete and accurate information, while longer periods such as 21 or 30 days could delay necessary care and services that the resident may need immediately upon their arrival. Thus, adhering to the 14-day requirement is both a regulatory obligation and a best practice for promoting quality care in nursing facilities.