Variations in Formatting the State-Specified RAI

4145.5 - Variations in Formatting the State-Specified RAI (Rev. 1, 05-21-04) The CMS’ approval of a State-specified RAI covers those items included on the instrument, the working and sequence of those items, and all definitions and instructions for the RAI. Approval of the State-specified instrument does not address the attributes of the instrument related to formatting (for example, print type, color coding, or changes, such as integrating triggers into the instrument). States are encouraged to permit some flexibility in form design (e.g., print type, color, shading, or integrated triggers) or through use of a computer-generated printout of the RAI. The CMS’ approval is not required for a State to permit such formatting variations. However, a State must assure that any RAI form or printout in the resident’s record accurately and completely represents the State-specified RAI as approved by CMS, in accordance with 42 CFR 483.20(b). In other words, it includes all and only the items on the State-specified instrument with the exact wording and in the same sequence.