P0100A. Restraints used in bed: bed rail

Step-by-Step Coding Guide for P0100A. Restraints used in bed: bed rail

1. Review of Medical Records

• Begin by examining the resident's medical records, particularly nursing notes, physician orders, and care plans, for any mention of bed rail use.
• Focus on identifying usage within the 7-day look-back period, noting the reasons for and frequency of bed rail utilization.

2. Understanding Definitions

• Bed Rails: Any side rails used on a resident's bed, including full-length and half-length rails, that the resident cannot easily remove and that restrict the resident's voluntary movement.

3. Coding Instructions

• Code 0: Not used.
• Code 1: Used less than daily.
• Code 2: Used daily.

4. Coding Tips

• Distinguish between bed rails used for restraint purposes and those used to assist the resident (e.g., aiding in turning or repositioning).
• Consider bed rail usage in the context of the resident's entire care plan, including any physical limitations or fall risk assessments.

5. Documentation

• Clearly document the clinical rationale for bed rail use, including assessments of fall risk or mobility limitations.
• Note any resident or family discussions regarding bed rail use, including consent or concerns.
• Include plans for monitoring the resident's response to bed rail use and any scheduled reassessments.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

• Misclassifying assistive bed rails (e.g., those used for repositioning support) as restraints.
• Failing to document the resident's or family's consent and understanding of bed rail use.
• Not reassessing the need for bed rails as the resident's condition changes.

7. Practical Application

• Example 1: A resident with high fall risk uses full-length bed rails nightly. Coding: P0100A = 2 (used daily).
• Example 2: Bed rails are occasionally used when the resident shows signs of confusion. Coding: P0100A = 1 (used less than daily).
• Example 3: Bed rails are installed for mobility support, and the resident is capable of lowering them independently. Coding: Not considered a restraint, thus not coded in P0100A.

The Step-by-Step Coding Guide for item P0100A in MDS 3.0 Section P is based on the Long-Term Care Facility Resident Assessment Instrument 3.0 User’s Manual, Version 1.18.11, dated October 2023. Healthcare guidelines, policies, and regulations can undergo frequent updates. Therefore, healthcare professionals must ensure they are referencing the most current version of the MDS 3.0 manual. This guide aims to assist with understanding and applying the coding procedures as outlined in the referenced manual version. However, in cases where there are updates or changes to the manual after the mentioned date, users should refer to the latest version of the manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The guide should not substitute for professional judgment and the consultation of the latest regulatory guidelines in the healthcare field.