AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2003 Fourth Quarter; VOLUMES 1 & 2 NEW/REVISED CODES
Coding of Septicemia, SIRS, Sepsis, Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Since the creation of the series of codes for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), effective October 1, 2002, and the inclusion of the term sepsis under code 995.91, Systemic inflammatory response syndrome due to infectious process without organ dysfunction, effective with the October 1, 2003 update, there have been many questions on the proper coding of infections. The information in this article refers to coding of sepsis in adult, non-gravid patients. Separate codes exist for sepsis complicating pregnancy and in newborns. Though the terms septicemia and sepsis have often been used interchangeably by physicians, they are no longer...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article reviews ICD-9-CM coding guidance for sepsis-related diagnoses in adult, non-gravid patients. It explains the terminology distinctions among septicemia, sepsis, SIRS, severe sepsis, and septic shock, and notes how related coding guidance and official guidelines were updated over time. The article is aimed at coders and other HIM professionals who need to understand how sepsis-related documentation is reflected in coded data and hospital statistics.
Why This Topic Matters
Sepsis-related documentation can affect diagnosis coding, sequencing, and the accuracy of coded clinical data. Understanding the article helps coders interpret terminology consistently and follow the applicable ICD-9-CM guidance.
Article Sections
-
Overview and terminology
Introduces the topic, the scope of the article, and the terminology distinctions relevant to sepsis-related conditions. It also places the discussion in the context of ICD-9-CM and coding accuracy.
-
Definitions and coding concepts
Reviews the clinical terms discussed in the article and explains the broad coding concepts tied to infection, SIRS, and systemic illness. It also notes the relationship between terminology and documented conditions.
-
Sequencing and documentation guidance
Addresses how the article describes sequencing of underlying conditions and related systemic illness coding. It also covers general documentation considerations and defaulting concepts referenced in the text.
-
Severe sepsis and septic shock
Summarizes the section of the article focused on more advanced sepsis-related conditions and associated organ dysfunction or shock. It also notes that the article references updated guidance and prior coding clinic advice.
-
Related terminology and updates
Covers additional synonymous terminology and references to tabular updates and official coding guideline changes. It provides context for later corrections and revision notices mentioned in the article.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames sepsis-related terminology in ICD-9-CM
- What broad categories of documentation issues are discussed for adult, non-gravid patients
- How the article addresses sequencing concepts for systemic infection and related conditions
- What topics are covered regarding severe sepsis, septic shock, and related updates
- Which official coding references and update notices are mentioned in the discussion
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Health information management professionals
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Billing and reimbursement staff
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com