Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170R5: Wheel 50 Feet with Two Turns (OBRA/Interim Performance)

Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item GG0170R5: Wheel 50 Feet with Two Turns (OBRA/Interim Performance)

Introduction

Purpose:
MDS Item GG0170R5 assesses a resident’s ability to wheel 50 feet and make two 90-degree turns during OBRA or Interim assessments. This evaluation monitors changes in mobility for residents using wheelchairs.

What is MDS Item GG0170R5?

Explanation:
GG0170R5 measures how much assistance a resident needs to wheel 50 feet and perform two 90-degree turns. This helps determine their current mobility with a wheelchair or scooter during the OBRA/Interim assessment.

Guidelines for Coding GG0170R5

Coding Instructions:
Use the six-point scale to code:

• 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 M wheels 50 feet and makes two turns with the help of a physical therapist adjusting their hands for better control. Code GG0170R5 as 03 (Partial/moderate assistance).

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

Ensure that the resident’s performance is documented during the OBRA or Interim assessment period.

Communication:

Collaborate with therapists and other caregivers to record any assistance required during the task.

Training:

Provide staff training on wheelchair mobility assessments, emphasizing the use of the six-point scale.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurate coding of GG0170R5 ensures that care plans reflect the resident’s ability to perform wheelchair maneuvers safely and independently during the OBRA/Interim assessment.

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-65​.

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 consult the latest version for updates.