Source anchor
CMS MDS 3.0 RAI Manual v1.20.1 is the governed baseline currently attached to this lookup item.
Item Rationale
CMS MDS 3.0 RAI Manual v1.20.1 is the governed baseline currently attached to this lookup item.
3 matrix group(s) are already attached for review on this item.
3 governed answer row(s) are attached for this item.
Item Rationale
Use this item when the facility is completing content tied to Section B and needs to stay anchored to v1.20.1.
This page is grounded in CMS MDS 3.0 RAI Manual v1.20.1. Review the exact text and locators before treating the item as final reference content.
Unclear speech or absent speech can hinder communication and be very frustrating to an individual. Unclear speech or absent speech can result in physical and psychosocial needs not being met and can contribute to depression and social isolation.
If speech is absent or is not clear enough for the resident to make needs known, other methods of communication should be explored. Lack of speech clarity or ability to speak should not be mistaken for cognitive impairment.
Listen to the resident. Ask primary assigned caregivers about the resident’s speech pattern. Review the medical record.
SPEECH The verbal expression of articulate words. Determine the quality of the resident’s speech, not the content or appropriateness—just words spoken.
Code 0, clear speech: if the resident usually utters distinct, intelligible words.
Code 1, unclear speech: if the resident usually utters slurred or mumbled words.
Code 2, no speech: if there is an absence of spoken words.