GG0120D: Mobility Devices - Limb Prosthesis, Step-by-Step

Step-by-Step Coding Guide for GG0120D: Mobility Devices - Limb Prosthesis

1. Review of Medical Records

Objective: Identify if the resident used a limb prosthesis during the 7-day observation period.

Actions:

• Review the medical records, including nursing and therapy documentation.
• Speak with caregivers and therapy staff about the resident’s use of a prosthetic limb.
• Directly observe the resident using their prosthesis during mobility activities.

2. Understanding Definitions

GG0120D: Limb Prosthesis: This item captures the use of an artificial limb to replace a missing extremity, such as a leg or arm prosthesis, to support mobility.

Example Scenarios:

• Resident A: Uses a below-the-knee prosthesis daily to walk independently. This should be coded as GG0120D: Yes​​.

3. Coding Instructions

Step-by-Step:

• Step 1: Review if the resident uses a prosthetic limb for mobility.
• Step 2: If the resident consistently uses a prosthetic limb to ambulate or assist with mobility, code GG0120D as Yes.
• Step 3: If no limb prosthesis is used during the observation period, code GG0120D as No​​.

4. Coding Tips

• Multiple Prostheses: If the resident uses more than one prosthesis (e.g., both an arm and a leg), ensure that all prostheses are considered when coding.
• Temporary Non-Use: If the resident typically uses a prosthesis but does not during the assessment period due to medical reasons, document accordingly and code based on the 7-day observation window​.

5. Documentation

Objective: Ensure that the resident’s use of the prosthetic limb is clearly documented in their medical records.

Actions:

• Record the type of prosthetic limb and its usage in daily mobility activities.
• Document the resident’s independence level with the prosthetic limb during ambulation or other movements​.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Misclassifying Non-Mobility Devices: Only include prosthetic limbs used for mobility. Devices used for other purposes (e.g., cosmetic prostheses) should not be coded under GG0120D.
• Incomplete Documentation: Ensure clear documentation if the prosthesis was not used during the observation period​.

7. Practical Application

• Example 1: A resident with a leg prosthesis who uses it daily for ambulation should be coded as GG0120D: Yes.
• Example 2: A resident who does not use their prosthesis for mobility during the 7-day observation period should be coded as GG0120D: No​.

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item set GG0120D 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.