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ICD-10 Coding for Brief Resolved Unexplained Event(R68.13)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Brief Resolved Unexplained Event. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

BRUEApparent Life-Threatening Event (ALTE)

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Brief Resolved Unexplained Event

R68.1-R68.89Primary Range

Other general symptoms and signs

This range includes codes for symptoms and signs not classified elsewhere, with R68.13 specifically for BRUE.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for brief resolved unexplained event

Essential facts and insights about Brief Resolved Unexplained Event

The ICD-10 code for a brief resolved unexplained event is R68.13, applicable when all AAP criteria are met.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for brief resolved unexplained event

Brief resolved unexplained event (BRUE)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Event duration ≤1 minute with spontaneous resolution

documentation Criteria

  • Normal vital signs documented post-event

Applicable To

  • Brief resolved unexplained event meeting AAP criteria

Excludes

  • Apparent life-threatening event (ALTE) (R68.12)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Event duration ≤1 minute
  • Return to baseline without intervention
  • Normal vitals and exam at evaluation
  • No identifiable cause after workup

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding when criteria are not fully met
  • Omitting documentation of normal vital signs

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports all criteria for BRUE before coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Apnea, not elsewhere classified

R06.81
Use alongside R68.13 if apnea is a characteristic of the BRUE.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Other specified symptoms and signs involving the circulatory and respiratory systems

R09.89
Use if event duration exceeds 1 minute or if symptoms do not resolve spontaneously.

Primary apnea of newborn

P28.4
Use for neonates under 37 weeks gestational age.

Unspecified convulsions

R56.9
Use if seizure-like activity is observed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Brief Resolved Unexplained Event to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R68.13.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure vital signs are documented post-event., Use templates to guide documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Sequence the underlying condition first, followed by R68.13.

Impact

Incomplete documentation of BRUE criteria can lead to audit findings.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates and checklists to ensure all criteria are documented.

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 Brief Resolved Unexplained Event, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Brief Resolved Unexplained Event

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Brief Resolved Unexplained Event. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Emergency Department Evaluation of BRUE

Specialty: Pediatrics

Required Elements

  • Event characterization
  • Recovery details
  • Exclusion criteria checklist

Example Documentation

Event resolved spontaneously within 30 seconds. No fever, trauma, or abnormal vital signs documented.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Brief episode with cyanosis.
Good Documentation Example
Central cyanosis lasting 20 seconds during sleep, resolved without intervention. Normal SpO2 (98%) post-event.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the event and resolution, supporting the BRUE diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Brief Resolved Unexplained Event? Ask your questions below.

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