Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170O1: 12 Steps (Admission Performance)

Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170O1: 12 Steps (Admission Performance)

Introduction

Purpose:
MDS Item GG0170O1 assesses a resident’s ability to ascend and descend 12 steps at admission. This evaluation provides a baseline for the resident’s stair mobility, which is critical for planning care and determining therapy interventions.

What is MDS Item GG0170O1?

Explanation:
GG0170O1 measures the assistance a resident requires to safely go up and down 12 steps. This item captures stair-climbing ability, which is an essential component of a resident’s functional mobility.

Guidelines for Coding GG0170O1

Coding Instructions:
Use the six-point scale for coding:

• 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 X needs assistance while ascending and descending stairs. A helper provides less than half the effort using a gait belt for safety. Code GG0170O1 as 03 (Partial/moderate assistance).

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

Record the resident’s performance within the first three days of admission to reflect their typical stair-climbing ability.

Communication:

Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to ensure that observations are consistent and accurate.

Training:

Provide staff training on assessing stair mobility and using the six-point scale correctly.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurately coding GG0170O1 ensures the resident’s care plan includes interventions that match their stair-climbing ability, facilitating safer mobility and rehabilitation.

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-63​.

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.