ICD-10 Coding for Elevated Creatinine(R94.4, N18.3)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Elevated Creatinine. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Elevated Creatinine
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R94.4 | Abnormal results of kidney function studies | Use when elevated creatinine is detected without a confirmed diagnosis of CKD or AKI. |
|
| N18.3 | Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 (moderate) | Use when CKD Stage 3 is diagnosed with supporting lab results. |
|
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 elevated creatinine
Essential facts and insights about Elevated Creatinine
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for elevated creatinine
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Isolated elevated creatinine without CKD or AKI diagnosis
coding Criteria
- No CKD or AKI codes present
Applicable To
- Elevated creatinine without CKD or AKI
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Creatinine >1.3 mg/dL (F) / >1.5 mg/dL (M) without confirmed CKD
- Lab results showing isolated elevation
Code-Specific Risks
- Misuse when CKD or AKI is present
Coding Notes
- Ensure no CKD or AKI diagnosis is present before using R94.4.
N18.3 - Chronic kidney disease, stage 3 (moderate)
Use when CKD Stage 3 is diagnosed with supporting lab results.
Applicable To
- CKD Stage 3 with eGFR 30-59
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- eGFR 30-59 for ≥3 months
- Albuminuria (ACR ≥30 mg/g)
Coding Notes
Document eGFR and albuminuria for accurate staging.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hypertensive CKD
I12.9Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Elevated Creatinine to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R94.4.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate CKD staging, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Always document eGFR values, Review lab results before coding
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use appropriate CKD codes (N18.-) when CKD is diagnosed.
Impact
Incorrect CKD staging due to lack of eGFR documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement mandatory eGFR documentation for CKD coding.
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 Elevated Creatinine, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Elevated Creatinine
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Elevated Creatinine. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Isolated Elevated Creatinine
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Serum creatinine level
- eGFR if available
- Clinical symptoms
- Exclusion of CKD or AKI
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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