Understanding and Coding MDS Item GG0130A3, Eating (Discharge Performance)

Understanding and Coding MDS Item GG0130A3 – Eating (Discharge Performance)

Introduction:

Purpose: MDS Item GG0130A3 captures a resident’s eating ability at discharge, assessing how they use utensils to bring food and drink to their mouth and swallow. This item is crucial for evaluating a resident’s progress and functional abilities upon discharge, ensuring accurate care planning for their ongoing needs.

What is MDS Item GG0130A3?

Explanation: MDS Item GG0130A3 assesses a resident's eating performance during the 3-day assessment period before discharge. The focus is on the level of assistance required for the resident to feed themselves safely and efficiently, excluding tube feeding and parenteral nutrition.

Guidelines for Coding GG0130A3:

Coding Instructions:

1. Medical Record Review: Review the documentation of the resident’s eating abilities during the last three days of their stay.
2. Consultation: Speak with care staff who assisted the resident with meals.
3. Observation: Observe the resident during mealtime and assess the level of assistance provided.

Example Scenario:

• A resident can eat independently but requires verbal cues for safe swallowing. For this case, GG0130A3 would be coded as 04, Supervision.

Best Practices for Accurate Coding:

• Documentation: Ensure that eating performance is documented in the care plan and discharge notes.
• Communication: Discuss the resident’s progress with dietary staff and caregivers.
• Training: Provide training on how to accurately assess eating performance at discharge.

Conclusion:

Coding MDS Item GG0130A3 accurately helps ensure proper planning for the resident’s post-discharge care needs, particularly related to their ability to eat safely.

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-23​.

Disclaimer:

Please note that the information provided in this guide for MDS 3.0 Item GG0130A3 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.