Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item I5000: Paraplegia

MDS 3.0 Item I5000: Paraplegia

Introduction

Purpose:
Paraplegia refers to the paralysis of the lower half of the body, affecting both legs. MDS Item I5000 documents the presence of paraplegia, helping ensure that residents receive appropriate support, rehabilitation, and care tailored to their mobility needs and daily living activities.

What is MDS Item I5000?

Explanation:
MDS Item I5000 captures whether a resident has paraplegia, often resulting from spinal cord injuries. This condition requires comprehensive care, including the use of mobility aids, rehabilitation therapies, and assistance with ADLs. Proper documentation helps ensure that residents receive appropriate interventions to maintain their independence and prevent complications like pressure ulcers.

Guidelines for Coding MDS Item I5000

Coding Instructions:

• Paraplegia must be diagnosed by a healthcare provider and actively managed.
• Code MDS Item I5000 as present if the resident has paraplegia and requires ongoing care, such as physical therapy or assistive devices.
  For instance, if a resident with paraplegia uses a wheelchair for mobility, this should be reflected in MDS Item I5000.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

• Ensure detailed documentation of the paraplegia diagnosis, along with treatments such as physical therapy, wheelchair use, and skin integrity monitoring.

Communication:

• Coordinate with physical therapists, nurses, and physicians to ensure a comprehensive care plan is in place for managing paraplegia.

Training:

• Train staff on proper transfer techniques, pressure ulcer prevention, and the safe use of mobility aids to support residents with paraplegia.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurate coding of MDS Item I5000 ensures that residents with paraplegia receive proper support, including mobility assistance, rehabilitation, and care to prevent complications.

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, Pages I-12 to I-14.

Disclaimer

This guide for MDS 3.0 Item I5000 is based on the CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024.