ICD-10 Coding for Multiple Organ Failure(R65.20, R65.21)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Multiple Organ Failure. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Multiple Organ Failure
R65.2Primary Range
Severe sepsis with organ dysfunction
Primary range for coding severe sepsis with multiple organ failure.
Acute respiratory failure
Used to specify respiratory failure as part of multiple organ failure.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R65.20 | Severe sepsis without septic shock | Use when severe sepsis is present without shock. |
|
| R65.21 | Severe sepsis with septic shock | Use when septic shock is present. |
|
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 multiple organ failure
Essential facts and insights about Multiple Organ Failure
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for multiple organ failure
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Sepsis with documented organ dysfunction
Applicable To
- Severe sepsis with acute organ dysfunction
Excludes
- Septic shock (R65.21)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented sepsis with acute organ dysfunction
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure organ dysfunction is linked to sepsis.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies organ dysfunction due to sepsis.
R65.21 - Severe sepsis with septic shock
Use when septic shock is present.
Applicable To
- Septic shock
Excludes
- Severe sepsis without shock (R65.20)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Sepsis with hypotension unresponsive to fluid resuscitation
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies shock due to sepsis.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Multiple Organ Failure to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R65.20.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of patient condition., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms linking dysfunction to sepsis., Educate staff on documentation standards.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure organ dysfunction is explicitly linked to sepsis in documentation.
Impact
Incorrect linkage of organ dysfunction to sepsis.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular audits and staff training.
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 Multiple Organ Failure, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Multiple Organ Failure
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Multiple Organ Failure. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
ICU Admission for Severe Sepsis
Specialty: Critical CareRequired Elements
- Underlying infection
- Organ dysfunction
- Sepsis severity
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Multiple Organ Failure? Ask your questions below.