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ICD-10 Coding for Metabolic Alkalosis(E87.3)

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

Also known as:

AlkalosisBicarbonate Excess

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Metabolic Alkalosis

E87.0-E87.9Primary Range

Disorders of fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance

This range includes codes for various electrolyte and acid-base disorders, including metabolic alkalosis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for metabolic alkalosis

Essential facts and insights about Metabolic Alkalosis

The ICD-10 code for metabolic alkalosis is E87.3, used when confirmed by lab values.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for metabolic alkalosis

Alkalosis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed by ABG showing pH >7.45 and HCO3- >28 mmol/L.

documentation Criteria

  • Specify etiology such as vomiting or diuretic use.

Applicable To

  • Metabolic alkalosis

Excludes

  • Respiratory alkalosis (J96.00)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • pH >7.45
  • HCO3- >28 mmol/L

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure documentation specifies etiology to avoid coding errors.

Coding Notes

  • Document specific cause of alkalosis for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Dehydration

E86.0
Use with E87.3 if alkalosis is due to dehydration.

Differential Codes

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

Acidosis

E87.2
Use E87.2 for acidosis; differentiate based on pH and bicarbonate levels.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Metabolic Alkalosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E87.3.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the underlying cause., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims if etiology is not documented., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the underlying cause of alkalosis.

Impact

Risk of audits due to lack of detailed documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates and ensure all lab values and etiologies are documented.

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 Metabolic Alkalosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Metabolic Alkalosis

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

Hospital Admission for Metabolic Alkalosis

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Required Elements

  • ABG results
  • Serum electrolytes
  • Urine chloride levels
  • Etiology of alkalosis

Example Documentation

Patient admitted with metabolic alkalosis (pH 7.48, HCO3- 32 mmol/L) due to diuretic use. Plan includes IV fluids and electrolyte monitoring.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Elevated bicarbonate.
Good Documentation Example
Metabolic alkalosis (pH 7.48, HCO3- 32 mmol/L) due to diuretic use.
Explanation
The good example specifies lab values and etiology, providing a complete clinical picture.

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

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