Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0110E: Orthotics/Prosthetics

Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0110E: Orthotics/Prosthetics

Introduction

Purpose:
Orthotics and prosthetics play a significant role in enhancing mobility and daily function for many residents in long-term care facilities. Accurate documentation and coding of such devices are essential for capturing the resident’s prior usage and current needs, ensuring optimal care planning. This article provides guidance on coding MDS Item GG0110E, which focuses on residents who used orthotics or prosthetics prior to their current illness, injury, or exacerbation.

What is MDS Item GG0110E?

Explanation:
MDS Item GG0110E refers to whether a resident used orthotic or prosthetic devices before their current illness or injury. Orthotics are devices designed to support or correct the function of a limb or the torso, such as braces or splints. Prosthetics are artificial devices that replace a missing body part, like a limb. Capturing this information is essential for understanding the resident's functional status and mobility requirements.

Guidelines for Coding GG0110E

Coding Instructions:

1. GG0110E should be selected if the resident regularly used any type of orthotic or prosthetic device prior to the current illness or injury.
2. Common examples include:
   • Orthotics: Braces, splints, and shoe inserts.
   • Prosthetics: Artificial limbs, such as prosthetic arms or legs.
3. If the resident only started using an orthotic or prosthetic device after the current admission, GG0110E should not be marked.

Example Scenario:
Resident B, who lost a limb due to a prior accident, has been using a prosthetic leg to walk for the last five years. After being admitted to the nursing home for pneumonia, Resident B continues to use the prosthetic limb for mobility. In this case, GG0110E should be selected since the resident had been using the prosthesis before the current illness.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:
Ensure thorough documentation by reviewing past medical records and discussing the resident’s history of using orthotic or prosthetic devices with the family or caregivers. Detailed information on the type of device used, and how frequently it was used, is crucial for accurate coding.

Communication:
Collaboration with physical therapists and orthotists is essential to gain a clear understanding of the resident’s mobility needs and ensure all team members are informed about any necessary orthotic or prosthetic devices.

Training:
Regular training sessions for MDS coordinators and staff on assessing and coding orthotic and prosthetic device use are beneficial. Staying updated on coding guidelines helps prevent errors and ensures compliance.

Conclusion

Accurately coding MDS Item GG0110E is important for documenting residents' use of orthotics and prosthetics before their current health event. Following these guidelines ensures comprehensive care planning, which leads to improved outcomes for residents who rely on assistive devices for mobility.

Click here to see a detailed step-by-step on how to complete this item set

Reference:

CMS’s Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024, Chapter 3, Page GG-5.

Disclaimer:

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item GG0110E: Orthotics/Prosthetics was originally based on the CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024. 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.