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ICD-10 Coding for Presyncope(R55, I95.1, G90.01)

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

Also known as:

Near-faintingLightheadedness

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Presyncope

R55Primary Range

Syncope and collapse

Includes presyncope as per ICD-10 Index.

Orthostatic hypotension

Used when presyncope is due to orthostatic hypotension.

Carotid sinus syncope

Used when presyncope is due to carotid sinus hypersensitivity.

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 presyncope occurs without a known underlying cause.
  • Normal cardiac workup (ECG, echo)
  • Negative orthostatic vitals
I95.1Orthostatic hypotensionUse when presyncope is due to orthostatic hypotension.
  • ≥20 mmHg SBP drop within 3 mins standing
  • Documented dehydration/medication list
G90.01Carotid sinus syncopeUse when presyncope is due to carotid sinus hypersensitivity.
  • Positive carotid sinus massage test
  • Exclusion of cardiac arrhythmia

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 presyncope

Essential facts and insights about Presyncope

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

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for presyncope

Syncope and collapse
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • No identifiable underlying cause for presyncope.

coding Criteria

  • No Excludes1 conditions present.

Applicable To

  • Presyncope

Excludes

  • Orthostatic hypotension (I95.1)
  • Carotid sinus syncope (G90.01)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Normal cardiac workup (ECG, echo)
  • Negative orthostatic vitals

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use when an Excludes1 condition is present.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure no Excludes1 conditions are present when using R55.

Differential Codes

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

Orthostatic hypotension

I95.1
Use when presyncope is associated with a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing.

Carotid sinus syncope

G90.01
Use when presyncope is triggered by neck movement or shaving, confirmed by carotid sinus massage.

Syncope and collapse

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

Documentation & Coding Risks

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

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed templates for documentation., Train staff on specific documentation requirements.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Violates coding guidelines., Data Quality: Leads to inaccurate clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify if conditions like orthostatic hypotension are documented and use the appropriate code.

Impact

Using R55 with conditions like orthostatic hypotension.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement checks for Excludes1 conditions before 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 Presyncope, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Presyncope

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

Presyncope during standing

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Required Elements

  • Trigger event
  • Duration of symptoms
  • Associated symptoms
  • Blood pressure response

Example Documentation

Patient experienced presyncope upon standing with a 25/15 mmHg orthostatic BP drop.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient felt dizzy.
Good Documentation Example
Patient experienced 30 seconds of tunnel vision and leg weakness when rising from chair, with documented 25/15 mmHg orthostatic BP drop.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms and measurable clinical findings.

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

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