ICD-10 Coding for Delirium Tremens(F10.231)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Delirium Tremens. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Delirium Tremens
F10.2-F10.9Primary Range
Mental and behavioral disorders due to use of alcohol
This range includes codes for alcohol-related disorders, including delirium tremens.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for delirium tremens
Essential facts and insights about Delirium Tremens
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for delirium tremens
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of alcohol dependence and withdrawal delirium symptoms
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of 'delirium tremens' or 'alcohol withdrawal delirium'
Applicable To
- Alcohol withdrawal delirium
- Delirium tremens
Excludes
- Delirium NOS (R41.0)
- Non-alcoholic delirium
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Explicit documentation of alcohol dependence
- Symptoms of withdrawal delirium such as confusion, hallucinations, and autonomic instability
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if delirium is not explicitly linked to alcohol withdrawal
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies both alcohol dependence and withdrawal delirium.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hepatic encephalopathy
K72.91Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Alcohol use, unspecified with withdrawal delirium
F10.921Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Delirium Tremens to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F10.231.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on the importance of specific documentation., Implement checklists for alcohol withdrawal documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential underpayment if coded as non-specific delirium., Compliance: Risk of non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on alcohol-related conditions.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation explicitly states 'delirium tremens' or 'alcohol withdrawal delirium'.
Impact
Lack of specific documentation for alcohol withdrawal delirium.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training sessions for providers on documentation requirements.
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 Delirium Tremens, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Delirium Tremens
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Delirium Tremens. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Chief Complaint
- History of Present Illness
- Mental Status Examination
- CIWA-Ar Score
- Vital Signs
- Treatment Plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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