Does he have the ability to get out of the merry walker? Can he maneuver the bar? If not I would code as a restraint and just write really good notes etc. This would not get you in trouble because it is enhancing the quality of life even though it is technically a restraint.
ann m schoeny crnac sem haven nursing and rehab 225 cleveland ave. milford, ohio 45150 (513) 248-1270 -----Original Message----- From: Stacee Kunse [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, April 09, 2004 9:40 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: merrywalker as a restraint... I have a resident who uses a merrywalker for independent mobility and ambulation in the halls. He is too weak to use a regular walker. In the MDS manual, a merrywalker is an example in the restraint section. I have difficulty coding this as a restraint because it does not pevent him from rising, does not impede but enhances his mobility. I have it sufficiently covered in my RAPS that it enhances mobility, etc. Do I still code it as a restraint in MDS, and should it be reflected on the roster. I have put it on the roster--I would rather have state look into it and see our documentation, than have them see him in the hall and have it not be on the roster and be questioned as to why. Any input???? This e-mail and any attachments are confidential information intended for the sole use of the addressee listed. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately via return e-mail, or call our Management Information Systems Coordinator at (989)673-4117, and delete the e-mail. Unauthorized use, dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail or attachments, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. Stacee Kunse, RN MDS Coordinator Tuscola County Medical Care Facility 1285 Cleaver Road Caro, MI 48723 Phone: (989)673-4117 Fax: (989)673-6665 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] /---------------------------------------------------------- The Case Mix Discussion Group is a free service of the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators "Committed to the Assessment Professional" Be sure to visit the AANAC website. Accurate answers to your questions posted to NAC News and FAQs. For more info visit us at http://www.aanac.org -----------------------------------------------------------/ /---------------------------------------------------------- The Case Mix Discussion Group is a free service of the American Association of Nurse Assessment Coordinators "Committed to the Assessment Professional" Be sure to visit the AANAC website. Accurate answers to your questions posted to NAC News and FAQs. For more info visit us at http://www.aanac.org -----------------------------------------------------------/
