Uncomplicated post-cataract surgery convalescence, after the immediate postoperative
period, usually does not require skilled nursing services since application of eye
drops and ointments can generally be performed by any person with brief instructions.
Other services usually furnished to such persons are protective in nature and primarily
concerned with meeting the activities of daily living since the patient's mobility
is restricted.
However, where a patient is transferred from a hospital to an SNF within one or two
days following surgery, the patient is still in the immediate unstabilized postoperative
period during which the possibility of adverse reaction to anesthesia and other aspects
of the operative procedures necessiates close skilled monitoring. During this immediate
postsurgical period, the services provided may be skilled nursing services.