ICD-10 Coding for Black Tarry Stool(K92.1, K25.0)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Black Tarry Stool. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Black Tarry Stool
K92.0-K92.9Primary Range
Other diseases of digestive system
This range includes codes for various digestive system disorders, including melena.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K92.1 | Melena | Use when there is evidence of upper GI bleeding presenting as black, tarry stools. |
|
| K25.0 | Acute gastric ulcer with hemorrhage | Use when melena is due to a confirmed gastric ulcer. |
|
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 black tarry stool
Essential facts and insights about Black Tarry Stool
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for black tarry stool
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of black, tarry stools with foul odor.
documentation Criteria
- Endoscopy confirms upper GI source.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Black, tarry, foul-smelling stool
- Positive fecal occult blood test
- Endoscopy findings of upper GI bleeding
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding when the cause is known, such as a peptic ulcer.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'black, tarry, foul-smelling' to support K92.1.
K25.0 - Acute gastric ulcer with hemorrhage
Use when melena is due to a confirmed gastric ulcer.
Applicable To
- Bleeding gastric ulcer
Excludes
- Chronic gastric ulcer with hemorrhage (K25.4)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Endoscopy showing bleeding ulcer
- Drop in hemoglobin levels
Coding Notes
Ensure ulcer is confirmed via endoscopy.
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.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Black Tarry Stool to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K92.1.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'black, tarry stools'.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 Excludes1 note., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use K92.1 for melena and avoid R19.5 unless only occult blood is present.
Impact
Improper sequencing of codes can lead to audit flags.
Mitigation Strategy
Follow ICD-10 guidelines for 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 Black Tarry Stool, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Black Tarry Stool
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Black Tarry Stool. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Stool description
- Associated symptoms
- Medication history
- Endoscopy findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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