Step-by-Step Coding Guide for A1005E: Ethnicity – "Yes, another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin"

1. Review of Medical Records

Objective: Assess the resident’s ethnicity to determine if they identify as another Hispanic, Latino/a, or Spanish origin beyond specific categories like Cuban, Mexican, or Puerto Rican.

Actions:

• Review the resident’s demographic data in their medical records.
• Interview the resident to directly ask if they identify as another Hispanic, Latino/a, or Spanish origin, outside of the predefined categories.
• If the resident is unable to respond, gather information from family members or caregivers.

2. Understanding Definitions

A1005E: Yes, another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin: This item captures residents who identify with Hispanic, Latino/a, or Spanish origin but do not fall under the predefined categories such as Cuban, Mexican, or Puerto Rican. It includes individuals from other Spanish-speaking regions or cultural backgrounds.

Example Scenarios:

• Resident A: The resident identifies as being of Dominican origin. This would be coded as A1005E: "Yes, another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin."
• Resident B: The resident identifies as being of Salvadoran origin. This would also be coded as A1005E.

3. Coding Instructions

Step-by-Step:

• Step 1: Ask the resident if they identify as being of another Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin that is not listed among predefined categories like Cuban or Mexican.
• Step 2: If the resident confirms, code "Yes" for A1005E.
• Step 3: If the resident cannot respond, consult with family or caregivers, and document their response.

4. Coding Tips

• Self-Identification is Key: Ensure that the ethnicity is self-reported by the resident or confirmed by a family member or caregiver.
• Multinational Responses: If the resident identifies with multiple Hispanic or Latino origins, check all that apply, including A1005E for unspecified origins.

5. Documentation

Objective: Accurately document the resident’s ethnicity based on self-report or reliable input from family members or caregivers.

Actions:

• Record if the resident identifies with another Hispanic or Latino/a culture not specifically listed.
• Include any relevant information that explains their cultural background, ensuring it is noted in the care plan.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Assuming Ethnicity: Avoid making assumptions about ethnicity based on appearance or surname. Always confirm directly with the resident or their family.
• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure that all ethnic backgrounds reported by the resident are documented and coded accurately.

7. Practical Application

Example 1:
A resident from Argentina identifies as being of Argentine origin. This would be coded as A1005E: Yes, another Hispanic, Latino/a, or Spanish origin.

Example 2:
A resident from Venezuela identifies with Venezuelan culture. This would be coded as A1005E as well.

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item set A1005E was originally based on the CMS's RAI Version 3.0 Manual, October 2023 edition. Every effort will be made to update it to the most current version. The MDS 3.0 Manual is typically updated every October. If there are no changes to the Item Set, there will be no changes to this guide. This guidance is intended to assist healthcare professionals, particularly new nurses or MDS coordinators, in understanding and applying the correct coding procedures for this specific item within MDS 3.0.  

The guide is not a substitute for professional judgment or the facility’s policies. It is crucial to stay updated with any changes or updates in the MDS 3.0 manual or relevant CMS regulations. The guide does not cover all potential scenarios and should not be used as a sole resource for MDS 3.0 coding.  

Additionally, this guide refrains from handling personal patient data and does not provide medical or legal advice. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective practices.