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ICD-10 Coding for Nausea(R11.0, R11.2)

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

Also known as:

QueasinessUpset Stomach

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nausea

R11Primary Range

Nausea and vomiting

This range includes codes for nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms that may require specific coding based on the presence of vomiting or underlying causes.

Excessive vomiting in pregnancy

This range is relevant for nausea related to pregnancy, which requires specific codes to capture the obstetric context.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R11.0NauseaUse when nausea is the primary symptom and no vomiting is present.
  • Documented duration of nausea
  • Absence of vomiting
  • Negative findings for underlying conditions
R11.2Nausea with vomiting, unspecifiedUse when both nausea and vomiting are present and no specific cause is identified.
  • Documentation of both nausea and vomiting
  • Linkage to any underlying conditions

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 nausea

Essential facts and insights about Nausea

The ICD-10 code for nausea without vomiting is R11.0, while nausea with vomiting is coded as R11.2.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for nausea

Nausea
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Nausea without vomiting and no identifiable underlying cause

Applicable To

  • Standalone nausea without vomiting

Excludes

  • Nausea with vomiting (R11.2)
  • Pregnancy-related nausea (O21.9)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented duration of nausea
  • Absence of vomiting
  • Negative findings for underlying conditions

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using R11.0 when vomiting is present
  • Failure to document duration and severity

Coding Notes

  • Ensure nausea is documented as a standalone symptom without vomiting.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for antineoplastic chemotherapy

Z51.11
Use with R11.0 for chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Other complications of surgical and medical care, not elsewhere classified

T88.59
Use for post-operative nausea and vomiting if applicable.

Differential Codes

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

Nausea with vomiting, unspecified

R11.2
Use R11.2 if both nausea and vomiting are present.

Nausea

R11.0
Use R11.0 if vomiting is not present.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nausea to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R11.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate symptom representation, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always assess and document presence of vomiting, Review documentation for completeness

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use R11.2 if both nausea and vomiting are documented.

Impact

Inaccurate coding of nausea and vomiting can lead to audit findings.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and correct code selection.

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

Documentation Templates for Nausea

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

Emergency Department Visit for Nausea

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Duration of nausea
  • Associated symptoms
  • Negative findings for underlying conditions

Example Documentation

Patient reports 6-hour history of persistent nausea without vomiting, rated 7/10 severity. No identifiable triggers. Abdomen soft/non-tender. Negative pregnancy test.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient feels sick to stomach.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports 6-hour history of persistent nausea without vomiting, rated 7/10 severity.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on duration and severity, improving documentation quality.

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

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