GG0170SS1: Type of Wheelchair/Scooter Used (Admission Performance), Step-by-Step

Step-by-Step Coding Guide for GG0170SS1: Type of Wheelchair/Scooter Used (Admission Performance)

1. Review of Medical Records

Objective: Determine the type of wheelchair or scooter the resident used for mobility during the admission assessment period.

Actions:

• Access the resident’s medical records, including physical therapy notes, nursing assessments, and mobility flow sheets.
• Confirm the use of a manual or motorized wheelchair or scooter during the assessment period.

2. Understanding Definitions

GG0170SS1: Type of Wheelchair/Scooter Used (Admission Performance): This item captures the type of mobility device (manual or motorized) the resident used during the 3-day admission assessment period.

Manual Wheelchair:

• A manually propelled wheelchair where the resident uses their arms or legs for movement.

Motorized Wheelchair or Scooter:

• A powered wheelchair or scooter operated by a motor, requiring minimal physical effort from the resident.

Illustration 1:

• Scenario: A resident uses a motorized wheelchair for mobility due to severe arthritis.
• Result: GG0170SS1 is coded 2: Motorized to reflect the use of a motorized wheelchair.

3. Coding Instructions

Step-by-Step:

• Step 1: Review the resident’s medical records to determine the type of wheelchair or scooter used for mobility during the 3-day admission assessment period.
• Step 2: Identify whether the resident used a manual or motorized wheelchair or scooter.
• Step 3: If a manual wheelchair was used, check GG0170SS1 as 1: Manual.
• Step 4: If a motorized wheelchair or scooter was used, check GG0170SS1 as 2: Motorized.

Illustration 2:

• Scenario: A resident with paraplegia uses a manual wheelchair for mobility.
• Result: GG0170SS1 is coded 1: Manual to document the use of a manual wheelchair.

4. Coding Tips

• Exclude Temporary Use: Only code GG0170SS1 if the wheelchair or scooter is used for regular mobility. If the resident uses a wheelchair only for transportation by staff (e.g., between rooms), do not code it here.
• Consider Self-Propelled Use: Ensure that the wheelchair/scooter is used by the resident for self-mobilization during the assessment period.

5. Documentation

Objective: Ensure that the type of wheelchair or scooter used is clearly documented in the medical record.

Actions:

• Record the type of wheelchair or scooter used (manual or motorized).
• Ensure that any mobility assistance or adaptations (e.g., adaptive controls) are documented as part of the resident’s care plan.

Illustration 3:

• Scenario: A resident uses a motorized wheelchair with adaptive controls to help with steering and speed due to Parkinson's disease.
• Documentation: Ensure that the motorized wheelchair and the adaptations are clearly noted in the care plan, and code GG0170SS1 as 2: Motorized.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Misclassifying Manual Wheelchairs: Ensure that manual wheelchairs are not coded as motorized devices. Only motorized wheelchairs or scooters should be coded as 2: Motorized.
• Incomplete Documentation: Avoid coding GG0170SS1 without clear documentation of the type of wheelchair or scooter used during the assessment period.

Illustration 4:

• Scenario: A resident is pushed by staff in a wheelchair for transport only and does not self-mobilize.
• Error: Do not code GG0170SS1. If the resident does not self-propel, it should not be included.

7. Practical Application

• Example 1: A resident who uses a motorized scooter for mobility during the admission period. GG0170SS1 is coded 2: Motorized.
• Example 2: A resident propels themselves with a manual wheelchair. GG0170SS1 is coded 1: Manual.

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item set GG0170SS1 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.