ICD-10 Coding for Fetal Intolerance of Labor(O77.9, O77.8, O68)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Fetal Intolerance of Labor. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Fetal Intolerance of Labor
O77-O77.9Primary Range
Labor and delivery complicated by fetal stress
This range includes codes for various types of fetal stress during labor, including unspecified and specific conditions.
Labor and delivery complicated by abnormalities of fetal acid-base balance
This range is used when there is evidence of fetal acidemia or abnormal heart rate patterns.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| O77.9 | Labor and delivery complicated by fetal stress, unspecified | Use when fetal stress is noted but lacks specific diagnostic evidence. |
|
| O77.8 | Other specified fetal stress | Use when there is specific evidence of fetal stress, such as late decelerations. |
|
| O68 | Labor and delivery complicated by abnormalities of fetal acid-base balance | Use when there is documented metabolic acidosis. |
|
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 fetal intolerance of labor
Essential facts and insights about Fetal Intolerance of Labor
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fetal intolerance of labor
Decision Criteria
documentation Criteria
- Non-reassuring fetal status without specific diagnostic evidence
Applicable To
- Non-reassuring fetal status
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of non-reassuring fetal status without specific details
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using when more specific codes apply
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation supports the use of this code by specifying non-reassuring fetal status.
O77.8 - Other specified fetal stress
Use when there is specific evidence of fetal stress, such as late decelerations.
Applicable To
- Late decelerations on EFM
- Oligohydramnios on ultrasound
Excludes
- Normal Category I/II tracings
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Objective evidence of fetal stress without acidemia
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation includes specific evidence of fetal stress.
O68 - Labor and delivery complicated by abnormalities of fetal acid-base balance
Use when there is documented metabolic acidosis.
Applicable To
- Category III tracing with metabolic acidosis
Excludes
- Isolated decelerations without acidosis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Scalp pH ≤7.20 or umbilical artery pH ≤7.10
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation supports the presence of metabolic acidosis.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fetal Intolerance of Labor to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code O77.9.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate clinical decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terminology and document diagnostic evidence.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and affect reimbursement., Compliance: Could result in non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Impacts the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Review documentation for specific indicators of fetal stress and use appropriate codes.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of fetal monitoring can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of fetal heart rate patterns and interventions.
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 Fetal Intolerance of Labor, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Fetal Intolerance of Labor
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Fetal Intolerance of Labor. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Labor progress note with fetal stress
Specialty: ObstetricsRequired Elements
- FHR baseline variability
- Deceleration type
- Uterine activity
- Interventions and response
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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