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ICD-10 Coding for Near Syncope(R55, I95.1)

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

Also known as:

Pre-syncopeVasovagal attackBlackout

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Near Syncope

R55Primary Range

Syncope and collapse

This range includes syncope and near syncope, used when no specific cause is identified.

Orthostatic hypotension

Used when near syncope is due to orthostatic hypotension, confirmed by clinical tests.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
R55Syncope and collapseUse when near syncope occurs without a specific identifiable cause.
  • Documented episode of near syncope
  • No loss of consciousness
  • Absence of identifiable cause
I95.1Orthostatic hypotensionUse when near syncope is due to orthostatic hypotension.
  • Drop in systolic blood pressure ≥20 mmHg upon standing
  • Symptoms of dizziness or lightheadedness

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 near syncope

Essential facts and insights about Near Syncope

The ICD-10 code for near syncope is R55, used when no specific cause is identified.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for near syncope

Syncope and collapse
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Near syncope with no identifiable cause

coding Criteria

  • Absence of orthostatic hypotension

Applicable To

  • Near syncope
  • Vasovagal attack

Excludes

  • Orthostatic hypotension (I95.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented episode of near syncope
  • No loss of consciousness
  • Absence of identifiable cause

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use when orthostatic hypotension is present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure no underlying cause is documented before using R55 as primary.

Ancillary Codes

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

Nausea

R11.0
Use when nausea is present during the episode of near syncope.

Differential Codes

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

Orthostatic hypotension

I95.1
Use when orthostatic hypotension is confirmed by clinical tests.

Syncope and collapse

R55
Use when no specific cause like orthostatic hypotension is identified.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Near Syncope to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R55.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis of syncope type., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure orthostatic vitals are part of the standard workup for syncope.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may lead to reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use I95.1 if orthostatic hypotension is confirmed.

Impact

Using R55 instead of I95.1 when orthostatic hypotension is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on proper documentation and 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 Near Syncope, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Near Syncope

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

Emergency Department Visit for Near Syncope

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Timeframe of episode
  • Triggers and associated symptoms
  • Orthostatic vital signs
  • Absence of loss of consciousness

Example Documentation

Patient presents with near syncope after standing, associated with dizziness and nausea. Orthostatic vitals: Supine BP 120/80, standing BP 90/60.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient felt dizzy.
Good Documentation Example
Patient experienced near syncope with dizziness and nausea after standing; orthostatic vitals documented.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms, triggers, and clinical findings.

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

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