Step-by-Step Coding Guide for Item Set GG0170K5: Walk 150 Feet (OBRA/Interim Performance)

1. Review of Medical Records

Objective: Assess the resident's ability to walk 150 feet during the OBRA or interim performance evaluation period, utilizing comprehensive reviews of medical and therapy records.

• Examine therapy evaluations, progress notes, and physician orders specifically mentioning the resident's mobility and walking ability.
• Focus on changes in the resident’s mobility status since the last assessment and any relevant interventions that might have influenced their ability to walk 150 feet.

2. Understanding Definitions

• Walk 150 Feet: The task of walking a total of 150 feet in one attempt, which may include navigating around obstacles or through corridors.
• OBRA/Interim Performance: The assessment of the resident's ability to perform the task during an OBRA-required assessment period or at an interim point in their care, reflecting current capability.

3. Coding Instructions

• Code 06 - Independent: Completes the task without assistance.
• Code 05 - Set-up or clean-up assistance: Requires help only before or after the task.
• Code 04 - Supervision or touching assistance: Needs verbal cues or steadying support.
• Code 03 - Partial/moderate assistance: Helper does less than half the effort.
• Code 02 - Substantial/maximal assistance: Helper does more than half the effort.
• Code 01 - Dependent: Requires full assistance; resident does not actively participate.
• Code 07 - Resident refused: Resident declined to attempt the task.
• Code 09 - Not applicable: Resident is unable to perform the task due to functional limitations.
• Code 88 - Not attempted due to medical condition or safety concerns: Health or safety reasons preclude the attempt.

4. Coding Tips

• Ensure that the walking path is safe and adequately prepared for the assessment.
• Use the resident’s customary assistive device, if applicable, and note its use.
• Consider the resident’s condition throughout the day to choose the best time for assessment.

5. Documentation

• Clearly document the resident’s performance in walking 150 feet, including any use of assistive devices and the type of assistance needed.
• Note any observations relevant to the resident’s endurance, gait, and need for rest.
• Compare the performance to previous assessments to track changes in mobility.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Not accounting for the use of assistive devices in coding the resident’s performance.
• Inaccurately coding a resident who requires verbal encouragement or navigation assistance as independent.
• Failing to document or consider the resident’s fatigue or need for rest breaks.

7. Practical Application

• Use assessment outcomes to inform care planning, especially for mobility enhancement strategies and safety interventions.
• Discuss assessment results with the resident and their family to adjust care plans and set realistic mobility goals.

The Step-by-Step Coding Guide for item GG0170K5 in MDS 3.0 Section GG is based on the Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.18.11, dated October 2023. Healthcare guidelines, policies, and regulations can undergo frequent updates. Therefore, healthcare professionals must ensure they are referencing the most current version of the MDS 3.0 manual. This guide aims to assist with understanding and applying the coding procedures as outlined in the referenced manual version. However, in cases where there are updates or changes to the manual after the mentioned date, users should refer to the latest version of the manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The guide should not substitute for professional judgment and the consultation of the latest regulatory guidelines in the healthcare field.