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ICD-10 Coding for Nicotine Abuse(F17.1-, T65.291-)

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

Also known as:

Tobacco AbuseSmoking Abuse

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nicotine Abuse

F17.1-Primary Range

Nicotine abuse codes

This range covers all forms of nicotine abuse without dependence.

Nicotine toxicity codes

Used for cases of acute nicotine poisoning or overdose.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F17.1-Nicotine abuseUse when there is documented harmful use of nicotine without meeting dependence criteria.
  • Behavioral patterns indicating abuse
  • Continued use despite harm
T65.291-Nicotine toxicityUse for cases of acute nicotine poisoning.
  • Acute symptoms of nicotine overdose

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 nicotine abuse

Essential facts and insights about Nicotine Abuse

The ICD-10 code for nicotine abuse is F17.1-, used for harmful use without dependence.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for nicotine abuse

Nicotine abuse
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Documented harmful use without dependence criteria.

coding Criteria

  • Use F17.1- when dependence is not documented.

Applicable To

  • Cigarette abuse
  • Vaping abuse

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Behavioral patterns indicating abuse
  • Continued use despite harm

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding dependence as abuse

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly differentiates between abuse and dependence.

Ancillary Codes

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

Shortness of breath

R06.02
Use when patient presents with respiratory symptoms related to nicotine use.

Chest pain

R07.9
Use when patient presents with chest pain related to nicotine use.

Differential Codes

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

Nicotine dependence

F17.2-
Presence of withdrawal symptoms and tolerance.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nicotine Abuse to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F17.1-.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresents current use as past., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify current vs. past use before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Code dependence (F17.2-) if documented.

Impact

Coding abuse when dependence is present.

Mitigation Strategy

Review documentation for dependence criteria.

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

Documentation Templates for Nicotine Abuse

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

Nicotine abuse documentation

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Patient's nicotine use pattern
  • Consequences of use
  • Attempts to quit

Example Documentation

Patient smokes 1 pack per day despite COPD diagnosis. Reports difficulty quitting.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient smokes heavily.
Good Documentation Example
Patient continues 1PPD cigarette use despite diagnosed COPD exacerbation (FEV1 45%).
Explanation
The good example specifies the quantity and consequences of smoking.

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

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