What is the primary federal regulation governing the standard of care in skilled nursing facilities?

• A. 42 CFR Part 483
• B. HIPAA
• C. 21 CFR Part 111
• D. ADA Title II

Answer: (A)

The main regulation governing the standard of care in skilled nursing facilities is the federal rule that sets the Conditions of Participation for Medicare- and Medicaid-certified facilities. It appears in 42 CFR Part 483 and requires facilities to provide appropriate medical, nursing, and rehabilitative services, maintain safe operations, conduct thorough resident assessments, and develop individualized care plans to address each resident’s needs. This framework defines what counts as adequate, timely, and appropriate care in the SNF setting.

HIPAA focuses on privacy and security of health information, not care standards. ADA Title II deals with nondiscrimination and accessibility for public entities, not the clinical standard of care. 21 CFR Part 111 relates to manufacturing practices for dietary supplements, which is unrelated to nursing facility care standards.