SOC Requirements
What document must be completed to officially open a home health episode?
Start of Care (SOC) / OASIS
When does discharge planning begin?
At Start of Care
Why are we going to hold weekly case conferences?
To coordinate care, identify risks early, and improve outcomes
Who comes first during an emergency — patient or staff safety?
Staff safety comes first
What should you do before and after every patient contact?
Hand hygiene
When should consent forms be signed?
At or before Start of Care
What document summarizes care provided at discharge?
Discharge summary
What types of patients should always be discussed?
High-risk, pending discharges, recerts, rehospitalizations
Who do you call for a life-threatening emergency?
911
What technique helps prevent cross-contamination in the home?
Bag technique
What should you do if you cannot complete an SOC as scheduled?
Notify the office/supervisor the same da
Should the physician be notified of discharge?
Yes
Who should participate in case conferencing?
The interdisciplinary care team
What should you do if it is unsafe to enter a patient’s area?
Do not enter and notify the office
When should PPE be used?
Based on task and patient condition
Can consent forms be signed retroactively?
No
What must be reviewed again at discharge regarding medications?
Medication reconciliation
How do case conferences support quality improvement?
They allow proactive problem identification and correction
What education must be provided to patients regarding emergencies?
Who to call, evacuation plan, supplies, and backup plans
What is the difference between clean and aseptic technique?
Clean reduces microorganisms; aseptic prevents contamination completely
Why is Start of Care considered the foundation of the episode?
It establishes skilled need, homebound status, and the plan of care
What should you do if you are unsure a patient is ready for discharge?
Escalate to the office/DPCS before scheduling discharge
How does weekly case conferencing demonstrate compliance with quality standards?
It shows ongoing assessment, interdisciplinary coordination, and performance improvement
What method ensures patients understand emergency education?
Teach-back
Why is infection control a quality and patient safety issue?
It prevents infections and protects patients and staff