STAT: Survey Tips and Tactics 2026 – Immediate Jeopardy

January 14, 2026

Discover how nursing homes are being cited with their annual surveys. The Long-Term Care Survey Process and regulatory language will be reviewed. Each month will delve into a specific survey topic. Common citation examples will be given with interactive discussion from members sharing their survey experiences, best practices, and lessons learned.  Obtain useful tips and tactics for the monthly highlighted topic. Resources and other reference material will be shared.

Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) represents the most serious level of noncompliance a nursing facility can receive, indicating a situation in which resident harm has occurred, is likely to occur, or has the potential for serious injury, impairment, or death. IJ citations often stem from system-level failures in assessment, supervision, communication, or policy implementation, many of which are preventable with strong leadership oversight and proactive quality systems. This session will break down CMS’s definition and criteria for Immediate Jeopardy, highlight common IJ trends seen in Ohio and nationally, and walk through how surveyors identify and substantiate IJ situations during the survey process. Participants will learn how to recognize vulnerabilities, implement prevention strategies, and respond effectively if IJ is cited, including steps for immediate corrective action and removal.

Continuing Education Information:   

1.0 clock hour will be awarded upon successful completion.   Pending BELTSS approval.

Criteria for successful completion: Attendance at entire event and submission of completed evaluation form. 

LeadingAge Ohio is an approved provider by the Board of Executives of Long Term Services and Supports. Core of knowledge subject areas: Care, Services and Support; Operations; Environment and Quality.  

As stated in the Ohio Administrative Code Rule 4723-14-05, education that has been approved by a board or an agency that regulates a health care profession in Ohio or another jurisdiction is an acceptable option to meet nursing continuing education requirements.