ICD-10 Coding for Delirium(F05, F05.8, F05.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Delirium. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Delirium
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F05 | Delirium due to known physiological condition | Use when delirium is linked to a confirmed physiological condition. |
|
| F05.8 | Other delirium | Use for specified types of delirium when the type is documented. |
|
| F05.9 | Delirium, unspecified | Use when delirium is present but the cause is not identified. |
|
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 delirium
Essential facts and insights about Delirium
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for delirium
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Acute onset and fluctuating course with physiological cause
Applicable To
- Delirium due to medical condition
Excludes
- Substance-induced delirium (F10-F19)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Acute onset of confusion
- Fluctuating course
- Evidence of physiological cause
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if underlying cause is not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure the underlying cause is documented and coded first.
F05.8 - Other delirium
Use for specified types of delirium when the type is documented.
Applicable To
- Hyperactive delirium
- Hypoactive delirium
Excludes
- Delirium due to substance use (F10-F19)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Specify type of delirium (e.g., hyperactive)
Coding Notes
Ensure type of delirium is specified in documentation.
F05.9 - Delirium, unspecified
Use when delirium is present but the cause is not identified.
Applicable To
- Delirium NOS
Excludes
- Substance-induced delirium (F10-F19)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Delirium symptoms present without identified cause
Coding Notes
Use only when no specific cause is documented.
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.
Altered mental status, unspecified
R41.82Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Delirium to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F05.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis and treatment, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Loss of potential reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Educate clinicians on documentation standards, Implement checklists for delirium documentation
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential loss of CC/MCC reimbursement, Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure the underlying cause is documented and use F05.
Impact
High risk of incorrect coding if underlying cause is not documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement regular audits and training for coding staff.
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, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Delirium
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Delirium. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute Delirium in Hospitalized Patient
Specialty: Internal MedicineRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Diagnostic test results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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