Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170K5: Walk 150 Feet (OBRA/Interim Performance)

Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170K5: Walk 150 Feet (OBRA/Interim Performance)

Introduction

Purpose:
MDS Item GG0170K5 evaluates a resident’s ability to walk 150 feet during OBRA or Interim assessments. Tracking this helps identify functional changes over time and informs necessary care plan adjustments.

What is MDS Item GG0170K5?

Explanation:
GG0170K5 measures how much assistance a resident needs to walk 150 feet during OBRA or Interim assessments. This helps monitor any changes in functional ability and mobility during the stay.

Guidelines for Coding GG0170K5

Coding Instructions:
Use the six-point scale:

• 06 (Independent)
• 05 (Setup or clean-up assistance)
• 04 (Supervision or touching assistance)
• 03 (Partial/moderate assistance)
• 02 (Substantial/maximal assistance)
• 01 (Dependent)

Example Scenario:
Resident F needs significant physical support to walk 150 feet safely. Code GG0170K5 as 02 (Substantial/maximal assistance).

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

Accurately document the resident’s typical performance over the three-day OBRA or Interim assessment period.

Communication:

Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure consistent documentation of mobility during OBRA assessments.

Training:

Provide staff training on assessing and documenting walking distances using the six-point scale for interim and OBRA assessments.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurate coding of GG0170K5 ensures the care plan is updated to reflect the resident’s current functional abilities during OBRA assessments.

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

Reference

Refer to CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024, Chapter 3, Page GG-61 .

Disclaimer

This guide is based on CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024. Always refer to the latest version for updates.