Understanding and Coding MDS Item GG0120D – Mobility Devices: Limb Prosthesis

Introduction:

Purpose: MDS Item GG0120D focuses on the use of limb prostheses, such as artificial arms or legs, by residents for mobility. Accurately coding this item is critical for ensuring residents receive appropriate mobility support and intervention, which improves their autonomy and quality of life.

What is MDS Item GG0120D?

Explanation: This item captures whether a resident uses a prosthetic limb for locomotion during the 7-day observation period. The item ensures that the resident's needs for artificial limbs are documented and met, impacting care plans related to their mobility and independence.

Guidelines for Coding GG0120D:

Coding Instructions:

1. Medical Record Review: Look for documentation on the use of a limb prosthesis.
2. Consultation: Discuss with the interdisciplinary team and family members regarding the resident’s use of the prosthesis.
3. Observation: Observe the resident’s mobility and prosthesis use during the assessment period.

Example Scenario:

• A resident has a prosthetic leg that they wear daily to walk around the facility. In this case, GG0120D should be marked, reflecting their use of the prosthesis.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding:

• Documentation: Ensure accurate and consistent documentation of prosthesis use in therapy records, care plans, and nursing notes.
• Communication: Collaborate with therapists and nursing staff to verify the resident’s use of the prosthesis.
• Training: Provide regular training on accurately assessing and documenting prosthesis use.

Conclusion:

Coding MDS Item GG0120D accurately helps ensure that residents who use prosthetic limbs receive appropriate care and mobility assistance.

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 GG0120D 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.