MDS Item I1700: Multidrug-Resistant Organism (MDRO)

MDS 3.0 Item I1700: Multidrug-Resistant Organism (MDRO)

Introduction:

Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) pose significant risks in healthcare settings, especially in long-term care facilities. MDROs, including MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), VRE (Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus), and others, require strict infection control to prevent outbreaks. Accurate coding of MDS Item I1700 ensures that facilities implement necessary precautions and treatments, safeguarding both residents and staff.

What is MDS Item I1700?:

MDS Item I1700 records the presence of a documented MDRO infection or colonization. It highlights the importance of infection control strategies and timely interventions for residents diagnosed with an MDRO, which is crucial for managing potential outbreaks in long-term care environments.

Guidelines for Coding I1700:

To code MDS Item I1700, a diagnosis of an MDRO must be documented by a physician within the last 7 days. This item is critical in developing infection control measures, such as isolation protocols or the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Example: If a resident tests positive for MRSA and has been diagnosed within the past week, this condition must be coded under I1700. Appropriate care planning would include the use of contact precautions and possibly isolation to prevent transmission.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding:

• Documentation: Ensure that a formal diagnosis of an MDRO is documented in the resident’s medical record by a healthcare provider. Regular updates from lab results or physician notes are essential.

• Communication: Foster interdisciplinary communication between nursing staff, infection control specialists, and physicians to stay updated on infection status and care plans.

• Training: Regularly train staff on the importance of proper hand hygiene, use of PPE, and adherence to isolation protocols to manage MDROs effectively.

Conclusion:

The correct coding of MDROs under MDS Item I1700 helps establish infection control measures in long-term care facilities. Proper documentation and interdisciplinary collaboration are key in preventing the spread of infections and ensuring resident safety.

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, Page I-10.

Disclaimer:

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item I1700 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.