Understanding and Coding MDS 3.0 Item I5900: Bipolar Disorder

Introduction

Purpose:
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition involving periods of depression and mania. MDS Item I5900 captures diagnoses of bipolar disorder, ensuring residents receive the necessary mental health care, including mood-stabilizing medications and therapy to prevent extreme mood fluctuations.

What is MDS Item I5900?

Explanation:
MDS Item I5900 documents the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, ensuring that care plans include interventions for both manic and depressive episodes. Treatment often includes mood stabilizers, counseling, and behavioral therapy to manage extreme changes in mood.

Guidelines for Coding MDS Item I5900

Coding Instructions:

• Bipolar disorder must be diagnosed by a healthcare provider and actively managed.
• Code this item as present if the resident is undergoing treatment for bipolar disorder, such as medications or therapy.
  For example, if a resident is prescribed mood stabilizers and participates in therapy for bipolar disorder, MDS Item I5900 should be coded as present.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding

Documentation:

• Ensure the resident's medical records reflect a diagnosis of bipolar disorder and document treatments such as medication and therapy.

Communication:

• Interdisciplinary communication is key to managing the complex nature of bipolar disorder. Nursing staff, social workers, and psychiatrists should work together to monitor the resident’s mood and adjust treatments as necessary.

Training:

• Train staff on the signs of manic and depressive episodes and how to respond to mood changes in residents with bipolar disorder.

Conclusion

Summary:
Accurately coding MDS Item I5900 ensures that residents with bipolar disorder receive appropriate treatment and mood management, improving their emotional and physical health.

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-14 to I-15.

Disclaimer

This guide for MDS 3.0 Item I5900 is based on the CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024.