CDS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CDS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following is NOT a feature of a text-to-speech software? → Converts speech into written text.
2. What is the primary purpose of regulatory compliance in professional practice? → To protect public safety and ensure minimum standards of care
3. Which of the following is an example of assistive technology for communication? → Speech-generating device.
4. Which entity typically has authority to establish practice standards? → State licensing boards and professional regulatory bodies
5. How do case managers ensure service coordination is effective? → By maintaining consistent communication between the individual and providers.
6. What is a key consideration when assessing disability severity? → The degree to which it affects daily living activities.
7. Which of the following best describes 'supported employment' for individuals with significant disabilities? → Competitive integrated employment with ongoing support services
8. Under the Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988, which of the following is a covered disability-related right for a tenant? → Right to make reasonable modifications to a unit at the tenant's own expense
9. Why is it important to use standardized terminology in documentation? → It ensures consistent understanding across all readers and reduces ambiguity
10. What should be done if an error is discovered in existing records? → Draw a single line through the error, note the correction, date, and initial
11. How does maintaining proper credentials demonstrate regulatory compliance? → It proves the practitioner has met all requirements for legal practice
12. Why is it important to create a care plan for individuals with disabilities? → To provide a structured approach to addressing the individual’s needs.
13. What document outlines the specific rehabilitation goals, services, and responsibilities agreed upon by the client and their VR counselor? → Individual Plan for Employment (IPE)
14. When completing a community integration assessment, which domain should a CDS specialist prioritize when evaluating a client's functional abilities? → The client's daily living skills within their natural environment
15. What is the clinical significance of understanding nerve pathways? → It prevents inadvertent nerve damage and guides proper technique
16. What is the purpose of a 'labor market survey' in vocational rehabilitation? → Identify available jobs, employer requirements, and wage rates in a local area
17. Which of the following is an example of systems advocacy as performed by an Independent Living Center? → Lobbying the state legislature to increase accessible housing funding
18. What is the significance of obtaining a thorough patient history? → It reveals relevant conditions that may affect treatment planning
19. Which federal law mandates that individuals with disabilities have the right to receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs? → Olmstead v. L.C. Supreme Court Decision
20. Why is regular preventive maintenance important? → It extends equipment life, ensures accuracy, and prevents unexpected failures
21. What is an important skill for case managers when working with individuals? → Empathy and effective communication.
22. What is the correct order for donning personal protective equipment? → Gown, mask, eye protection, gloves
23. A CDS working with a veteran with PTSD should be aware that trauma-informed care requires which foundational principle? → Emphasizing physical safety, trustworthiness, and choice to avoid re-traumatization
24. When faced with a conflict of interest, what is the appropriate course of action? → Disclose the conflict and recuse yourself from the situation
25. A client with a cognitive disability wants to learn to manage their own finances. Which independent living skill-building approach is MOST effective? → Community-based instruction using real money in real settings
26. Which self-advocacy skill is MOST important for a person with a disability to develop in order to successfully direct their own community living supports? → Ability to identify, communicate, and assert one's own needs and rights
27. Under the ADA Title II, public entities are required to make their programs accessible through which concept? → Program accessibility
28. Which documentation practice best supports legal defensibility? → Objective, factual entries with specific measurements and timestamps
29. What is the appropriate retention period for professional records? → As specified by state/federal law and professional licensing requirements
30. When a client receiving SSDI returns to work, the first nine months of work above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold are called: → Trial Work Period