MDS Item GG0120B – Mobility Devices: Walker

Introduction:

Purpose: MDS Item GG0120B focuses on the use of mobility devices, specifically walkers. Correct coding of this item is crucial for evaluating a resident’s mobility, allowing care providers to develop accurate care plans that enhance a resident’s independence and quality of life.

What is MDS Item GG0120B?

Explanation: MDS Item GG0120B refers to the use of walkers, including standard, enclosed-frame, or wheeled walkers. This item captures whether a resident relies on a walker for regular locomotion during the 7-day assessment period, which helps in evaluating their mobility needs.

Guidelines for Coding GG0120B:

Coding Instructions: When coding GG0120B, follow these steps:

1. Review the Medical Record: Check for documentation regarding the use of a walker within the observation period.
2. Consult with the Team: Speak with nurses, therapists, and other caregivers to verify walker use.
3. Observe the Resident: Conduct direct observations of the resident to confirm their use of a walker during movement.

Example Scenario:

• A resident uses a wheeled walker to navigate their room and the hallway. For this situation, GG0120B (Walker) would be coded based on their regular use of the device.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding:

Documentation:

• Ensure walker use is clearly and accurately documented across medical records, including nursing notes, therapy records, and resident care plans.

Communication:

• Encourage consistent communication among the care team to ensure all providers are aware of the resident’s walker use and that it is documented correctly.

Training:

• Provide ongoing staff training on the proper coding of GG0120B to ensure accuracy. Training should focus on how to assess, observe, and document the use of walkers consistently.

Conclusion:

MDS Item GG0120B is essential for assessing a resident's mobility needs, helping to ensure that care plans are tailored to their use of a walker. Accurate coding requires a combination of proper documentation, staff communication, and adherence to CMS guidelines.

Click here to see a detailed Step-by-Step on how to complete this item set.

Reference:

Please refer to CMS’s Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024, Page GG-10​.

Disclaimer:

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item GG0120B was originally based on the CMS's Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.19.1, October 2024. Every effort will be made to update it to the most current version. The MDS 3.0 Manual is typically updated every October. If there are no changes to the Item Set, there will be no changes to this guide. This guidance is intended to assist healthcare professionals, particularly new nurses or MDS coordinators, in understanding and applying the correct coding procedures for this specific item within MDS 3.0. The guide is not a substitute for professional judgment or the facility’s policies. It is crucial to stay updated with any changes or updates in the MDS 3.0 manual or relevant CMS regulations. The guide does not cover all potential scenarios and should not be used as a sole resource for MDS 3.0 coding. Additionally, this guide refrains from handling personal patient data and does not provide medical or legal advice. Users are responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective practices.