OASIS MO620

MO620, is one of the most frequently misunderstood OASIS questions in our experience. It asks for the frequency of behavior problems and then goes on to give the examples of wandering episodes, self abuse, verbal disruption, physical aggression, etc.).

Reading further in Chapter 8 of the OASIS Manual in the definition section, it states:

MO620 identifies frequency of behavior problems which may reflect an alteration in a patient’s cognitive or neuro/emotional status. “Behavioral problems” are not limited to only those identified in MO610. For example, “wandering” is included as an additional behavioral problem. Any behavior of concern for the patient’s safety or social environment can be regarded as a problem behavior.

Therefore, if MO610 has any response other than ‘none of the above’, MO620 would be expected to reflect the frequency of the problem behavior. It would be an inconsistency in data to any problem noted in MO610 and have any response less than ‘several times each month’ noted in MO620.

Keep in mind that MO620 can also refer to problems that are not noted elsewhere in the OASIS assessment. Memory impairment may be such that it does not require 24 hour supervision but may be of concern in the patient’s social environment.

The key to consistently answering MO620 correctly is to understand that the question refers to all problem behaviors, not just the four examples stated.

As always we are open to comments and questions in the comments section below or by email at haydelconsulting@bellsouth.net.   Making PPS Work for You, an online educational offering about OASIS is now available from Haydel Consulting Services LLC.