MDS Item GG0120C – Mobility Devices: Wheelchair (Manual or Electric)

Introduction:

Purpose: MDS Item GG0120C focuses on a resident’s use of a manual or electric wheelchair for mobility. Accurate coding for this item is essential for evaluating the resident's mobility needs and ensuring they receive proper support to maintain their independence and quality of life.

What is MDS Item GG0120C?

Explanation: MDS Item GG0120C documents the use of a manual or electric wheelchair by a resident for regular movement within the facility. This includes both self-propelled and assisted wheelchair use but excludes geri-chairs, scooters, or other specialty chairs.

Guidelines for Coding GG0120C:

Coding Instructions: When coding GG0120C, follow these steps:

1. Medical Record Review: Examine documentation indicating the resident’s use of a wheelchair (manual or electric) during the 7-day observation period.
2. Consultation: Speak with staff and family involved in the resident's care to verify wheelchair use.
3. Observation: Directly observe the resident during locomotion, noting whether they use a wheelchair.

Example Scenario:

• A resident regularly uses an electric wheelchair to navigate the facility. For this case, GG0120C (Wheelchair) should be checked, reflecting the resident’s primary mobility device.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding:

Documentation:

• Ensure that the use of the wheelchair is accurately reflected in medical records and care plans. This includes nursing notes, therapy reports, and other documentation sources.

Communication:

• Promote regular communication between nursing staff, physical therapists, and other members of the care team to ensure wheelchair use is documented consistently.

Training:

• Offer training for staff responsible for MDS coding to reinforce the importance of accurately coding GG0120C. Training should cover how to observe, assess, and document wheelchair use.

Conclusion:

MDS Item GG0120C plays a vital role in capturing a resident’s wheelchair use, ensuring their mobility needs are met through proper care planning. Adhering to coding guidelines ensures accuracy in documenting a resident’s mobility and dependence on devices like wheelchairs.

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 GG0120C 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.