ICD-10 Coding for Lithium Toxicity(T56.891A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Lithium Toxicity. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Lithium Toxicity
T56.8Primary Range
Toxic effect of other metals
This range includes lithium toxicity, which is classified under toxic effects of metals rather than medicinal poisoning.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for lithium toxicity
Essential facts and insights about Lithium Toxicity
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for lithium toxicity
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of symptoms consistent with lithium toxicity
documentation Criteria
- Explicit mention of lithium toxicity or poisoning
Applicable To
- Lithium toxicity
- Lithium poisoning
Excludes
- Adverse effect of lithium (T50.905A)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Serum lithium level ≥1.5 mEq/L
- Symptoms such as tremor, confusion, or renal impairment
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification under T36-T50 series
- Omission of intent documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the intent (accidental, intentional) and includes relevant lab values.
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.
Adverse effect of other drugs
T50.905ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Lithium Toxicity to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code T56.891A.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate clinical records affecting patient care., Regulatory: Potential non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document whether the ingestion was accidental or intentional.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment leading to potential underpayment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use T56.891A for lithium toxicity as it is classified under metals.
Impact
Failure to document intent can lead to audit discrepancies.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all records specify whether the ingestion was accidental or intentional.
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 Lithium Toxicity, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Lithium Toxicity
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Lithium Toxicity. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- History of lithium ingestion
- Neurological examination findings
- Serum lithium level
- Renal function tests
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Lithium Toxicity? Ask your questions below.