Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170L3: Walking 10 Feet on Uneven Surfaces (Discharge Performance)

Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170L3: Walking 10 Feet on Uneven Surfaces (Discharge Performance)

Introduction

Purpose:
MDS Item GG0170L3 assesses a resident’s ability to walk 10 feet on uneven surfaces at discharge. Tracking this item helps monitor mobility changes and informs discharge planning.

What is MDS Item GG0170L3?

Explanation:
GG0170L3 evaluates how much assistance a resident needs to walk 10 feet over uneven terrain at discharge. This is important for assessing post-discharge mobility and ensuring the resident can safely navigate such environments.

Guidelines for Coding GG0170L3

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 Y walks 10 feet over uneven grass with moderate assistance from a caregiver. Code GG0170L3 as 02 (Substantial/maximal assistance).

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

Document the resident’s performance over the last three days before discharge to ensure an accurate assessment of their mobility.

Communication:

Ensure collaboration among team members to maintain consistency in observations and coding.

Training:

Provide training on how to assess walking on uneven surfaces accurately during discharge assessments.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurately coding GG0170L3 ensures the resident’s discharge plan accounts for their ability to navigate uneven terrain, contributing to a safe transition to the next care setting.

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-60 .

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.