ICD-10 Coding for Azotemia(R79.89, E86.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Azotemia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Azotemia
R79.8-R79.89Primary Range
Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry
Covers azotemia when no specific underlying cause is identified.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R79.89 | Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry | When azotemia is documented without a specified cause. |
|
| E86.0 | Dehydration | When azotemia is secondary to dehydration. |
|
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 azotemia
Essential facts and insights about Azotemia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for azotemia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Elevated BUN/Cr ratio without a clear etiology.
Applicable To
- Azotemia NOS
Excludes
- Specific causes of azotemia
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated BUN/Cr without specified etiology
Code-Specific Risks
- Using this code without identifying an underlying cause can lead to queries.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type and cause of azotemia.
E86.0 - Dehydration
When azotemia is secondary to dehydration.
Applicable To
- Prerenal azotemia due to hypovolemia
Excludes
- Dehydration due to other specific causes
Clinical Validation Requirements
- ↓ BP, ↑ HR, poor skin turgor, FE Na <1%
Coding Notes
Sequence dehydration first when it is the primary cause.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Dehydration
E86.0Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Azotemia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R79.89.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to incomplete clinical picture., Regulatory: Triggers queries for more information., Financial: May result in incorrect billing.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the type and cause of azotemia., Use structured templates for documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect sequencing can affect DRG assignment., Compliance: May lead to compliance issues with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Affects the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Code I50.9 first, then R79.89.
Impact
Failure to sequence underlying cause first.
Mitigation Strategy
Use decision trees and templates to ensure correct sequencing.
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 Azotemia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Azotemia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Azotemia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Prerenal azotemia due to dehydration
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Patient symptoms
- Vital signs
- Lab results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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