ICD-10 Coding for Aggression(R45.6, F91.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Aggression. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Aggression
R45-R46Primary Range
Symptoms and signs involving emotional state
This range includes codes for symptoms like aggression and irritability.
Disorders of adult personality and behavior
Includes personality disorders that may manifest with aggressive behavior.
Behavioral and emotional disorders with onset usually occurring in childhood and adolescence
Includes conduct disorders often associated with aggressive behavior in children.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R45.6 | Violent behavior | Use when aggression is a symptom not attributed to a specific disorder. |
|
| F91.1 | Conduct disorder, childhood-onset | Use for children with a confirmed diagnosis of conduct disorder manifesting aggression. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for aggression
Essential facts and insights about Aggression
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for aggression
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of violent behavior without a specific mental disorder diagnosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented episodes of violent behavior
- Context and triggers of aggression
Code-Specific Risks
- Misuse when aggression is due to a specific mental disorder
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the context and frequency of aggressive episodes.
F91.1 - Conduct disorder, childhood-onset
Use for children with a confirmed diagnosis of conduct disorder manifesting aggression.
Applicable To
- Childhood conduct disorder with aggression
Excludes
- Oppositional defiant disorder (F91.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Behavioral assessments confirming conduct disorder
- Reports from educational or social services
Coding Notes
Ensure comprehensive documentation from multiple sources.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Conduct disorder, childhood-onset
F91.1Borderline personality disorder
F60.3Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, unspecified type
F90.9Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Aggression to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R45.6.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate understanding of the patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit issues., Financial: Risk of claim denial.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of each aggressive episode.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing may lead to reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of the patient's condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Sequence the underlying condition code first, followed by R45.6 for aggression.
Impact
High risk of audits if aggression is coded without detailed context.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure comprehensive documentation of each episode.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Aggression, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Aggression
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Aggression. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Aggression in a pediatric patient
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Frequency of aggressive episodes
- Triggers and context
- Behavioral interventions
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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