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ICD-10 Coding for Hematemesis(K92.0, K25.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Hematemesis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Vomiting bloodCoffee ground vomiting

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Hematemesis

K20-K31Primary Range

Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum

This range includes conditions that can cause hematemesis, such as ulcers and varices.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K92.0HematemesisUse when no specific cause of hematemesis is identified.
  • Documentation of vomiting blood
  • No identified source after workup
K25.0Acute gastric ulcer with hemorrhageUse when hematemesis is due to a confirmed bleeding gastric ulcer.
  • Endoscopic confirmation of bleeding ulcer
  • Documentation of hematemesis

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 hematemesis

Essential facts and insights about Hematemesis

The ICD-10 code for hematemesis is K92.0, used when no specific cause is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for hematemesis

Hematemesis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • No specific cause identified after diagnostic workup.

coding Criteria

  • Avoid if a more specific code is applicable.

Applicable To

  • Coffee ground vomiting
  • Vomit containing blood

Excludes

  • Gastritis with bleeding (K29.71)
  • Gastric ulcer with hemorrhage (K25.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of vomiting blood
  • No identified source after workup

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using K92.0 when a more specific code is available

Coding Notes

  • Ensure no specific etiology is documented before using K92.0.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Acute posthemorrhagic anemia

D62
Use when there is a significant drop in hemoglobin levels.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Melena

K92.1
Presence of black tarry stools without hematemesis.

Mallory-Weiss tear

K22.6
History of retching before hematemesis.

Duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage

K26.0
Bleeding confirmed in the duodenum.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Hematemesis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K92.0.

Impact

Clinical: Lack of specificity can lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement due to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify upper or lower GI source, Include diagnostic findings

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may reduce reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use the specific code for the documented cause, such as K25.0 for gastric ulcer.

Impact

Using K92.0 when a specific cause is documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough review of clinical documentation before 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 Hematemesis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Hematemesis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Hematemesis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute upper GI bleed

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Volume and color of emesis
  • Endoscopic findings
  • Hemoglobin levels

Example Documentation

Patient presents with 300 mL of bright red hematemesis. EGD shows bleeding gastric ulcer.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient vomited blood.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with 300 mL bright red hematemesis. EGD shows bleeding gastric ulcer.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the volume, color, and endoscopic findings.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Hematemesis? Ask your questions below.

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