ICD-10 Coding for Dog Scratch(S60.86-, A28.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Dog Scratch. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Dog Scratch
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| S60.86- | Superficial injury of other specified part of wrist, hand, and fingers | Use for superficial injuries on the hand or fingers caused by a dog scratch. |
|
| A28.1 | Cat-scratch disease | Use when a Capnocytophaga infection is confirmed following a dog scratch. |
|
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 dog scratch
Essential facts and insights about Dog Scratch
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for dog scratch
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Injury is superficial with no deep tissue involvement.
Applicable To
- Abrasion
- Blister
Excludes
- Bite of hand (S61.45-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of abrasion or blister on hand or fingers
- No deep tissue involvement
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if depth of injury is not superficial
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the injury as a scratch and not a bite.
A28.1 - Cat-scratch disease
Use when a Capnocytophaga infection is confirmed following a dog scratch.
Applicable To
- Capnocytophaga infection
Excludes
- Bacterial infection NOS (A49.9)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive blood culture for Capnocytophaga
- Systemic symptoms such as fever
Coding Notes
Ensure laboratory confirmation of Capnocytophaga infection.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Other contact with dog
W55.09XADifferential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Open wound of hand
S61.45xADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Dog Scratch to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code S60.86-.
Impact
Clinical: Misdiagnosis of the injury type., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denial or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use precise terminology to describe the injury., Include measurements and specific characteristics.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied or underpaid., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate injury data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Always sequence the injury code before the external cause code.
Impact
Failure to use the correct injury code for a dog scratch.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation clearly specifies the injury as a scratch and not a bite.
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 Dog Scratch, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Dog Scratch
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Dog Scratch. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Dog Scratch
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Injury description and location
- Animal vaccination status
- Signs of infection
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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