SMQT (Surveyor Minimum Qualifications
Test) Study Guide – 2026/2027 Updated
Syllabus
Domain 1: Survey Process & Preparation (Questions 1–15)
1. What is the primary purpose of an entrance conference during a long-term care
survey?
ANSWER ✓ To introduce the survey team, explain the survey process, and confirm
logistical needs with facility leadership.
2. How many days prior to a standard recertification survey must a facility receive
advance notification (standard, non-immediate jeopardy)?
ANSWER ✓ 5 calendar days (in most states, unless waived by state agency).
3. What is the “off-site survey preparation” phase primarily focused on?
ANSWER ✓ Reviewing prior survey reports, complaint histories, quality measures, and
organizational data before entering the facility.
4. Which document outlines the scope and severity of deficiencies found during a
survey?
ANSWER ✓ Form CMS-2567 (Statement of Deficiencies).
5. What is the maximum time between the exit conference and the facility receiving the
draft statement of deficiencies?
ANSWER ✓ No more than 5 working days.
6. During an initial tour, which areas must the surveyor prioritize?
ANSWER ✓ Infection control, kitchen/dining, medication storage, resident safety (e.g.,
call lights), and high-risk care areas.
7. What does “task-based survey” mean in the LTC survey process?
ANSWER ✓ Sample tasks are selected (e.g., pressure ulcer care, medication
administration) to trace direct resident care processes.
, 8. What is the purpose of a “group interview” with residents?
ANSWER ✓ To identify patterns of care, resident satisfaction, and potential systemic
issues without intimidating individual residents.
9. How long must a facility retain survey-related documentation for review by
surveyors?
ANSWER ✓ 12 months (or longer if state regulations require).
10. What is the first step if a facility refuses to allow an immediate entrance?
ANSWER ✓ Report immediately to the state agency supervisor; do not force entry.
11. What is a “mock survey” used for?
ANSWER ✓ Internal preparation by facility staff to identify and correct deficiencies
before an official survey.
12. What must be included in the survey team’s daily debriefing?
ANSWER ✓ Summary of findings, potential deficiencies, plan for next day, safety
concerns, and resident advocacy issues.
13. When should a surveyor request a facility’s abuse prohibition policy?
ANSWER ✓ During entrance conference or initial tour.
14. What is the difference between a “standard survey” and a “complaint survey”?
ANSWER ✓ Standard survey is routine recertification; complaint survey investigates
specific allegations of noncompliance.
15. May surveyors interview residents without staff present?
ANSWER ✓ Yes, privately and confidentially whenever possible.
Domain 2: Resident Rights & Quality of Life (Questions 16–30)
16. What federal law section codifies resident rights in nursing homes?
ANSWER ✓ 42 CFR §483.10.
17. What is the minimum frequency for resident council meetings?
ANSWER ✓ Monthly, or more often if requested by residents.
Test) Study Guide – 2026/2027 Updated
Syllabus
Domain 1: Survey Process & Preparation (Questions 1–15)
1. What is the primary purpose of an entrance conference during a long-term care
survey?
ANSWER ✓ To introduce the survey team, explain the survey process, and confirm
logistical needs with facility leadership.
2. How many days prior to a standard recertification survey must a facility receive
advance notification (standard, non-immediate jeopardy)?
ANSWER ✓ 5 calendar days (in most states, unless waived by state agency).
3. What is the “off-site survey preparation” phase primarily focused on?
ANSWER ✓ Reviewing prior survey reports, complaint histories, quality measures, and
organizational data before entering the facility.
4. Which document outlines the scope and severity of deficiencies found during a
survey?
ANSWER ✓ Form CMS-2567 (Statement of Deficiencies).
5. What is the maximum time between the exit conference and the facility receiving the
draft statement of deficiencies?
ANSWER ✓ No more than 5 working days.
6. During an initial tour, which areas must the surveyor prioritize?
ANSWER ✓ Infection control, kitchen/dining, medication storage, resident safety (e.g.,
call lights), and high-risk care areas.
7. What does “task-based survey” mean in the LTC survey process?
ANSWER ✓ Sample tasks are selected (e.g., pressure ulcer care, medication
administration) to trace direct resident care processes.
, 8. What is the purpose of a “group interview” with residents?
ANSWER ✓ To identify patterns of care, resident satisfaction, and potential systemic
issues without intimidating individual residents.
9. How long must a facility retain survey-related documentation for review by
surveyors?
ANSWER ✓ 12 months (or longer if state regulations require).
10. What is the first step if a facility refuses to allow an immediate entrance?
ANSWER ✓ Report immediately to the state agency supervisor; do not force entry.
11. What is a “mock survey” used for?
ANSWER ✓ Internal preparation by facility staff to identify and correct deficiencies
before an official survey.
12. What must be included in the survey team’s daily debriefing?
ANSWER ✓ Summary of findings, potential deficiencies, plan for next day, safety
concerns, and resident advocacy issues.
13. When should a surveyor request a facility’s abuse prohibition policy?
ANSWER ✓ During entrance conference or initial tour.
14. What is the difference between a “standard survey” and a “complaint survey”?
ANSWER ✓ Standard survey is routine recertification; complaint survey investigates
specific allegations of noncompliance.
15. May surveyors interview residents without staff present?
ANSWER ✓ Yes, privately and confidentially whenever possible.
Domain 2: Resident Rights & Quality of Life (Questions 16–30)
16. What federal law section codifies resident rights in nursing homes?
ANSWER ✓ 42 CFR §483.10.
17. What is the minimum frequency for resident council meetings?
ANSWER ✓ Monthly, or more often if requested by residents.
