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ICD-10 Coding for Respiratory Arrest(R09.2)

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

Also known as:

ApneaCessation of Breathing

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Respiratory Arrest

R09.2Primary Range

Respiratory arrest

This code is used to identify cases where there is a complete cessation of breathing.

Respiratory failure, not elsewhere classified

These codes are used when respiratory failure is present, which may accompany respiratory arrest.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for respiratory arrest

Essential facts and insights about Respiratory Arrest

The ICD-10 code for respiratory arrest is R09.2, used for cases of complete cessation of breathing.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for respiratory arrest

Respiratory arrest
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Absence of spontaneous respirations requiring intervention

coding Criteria

  • Sequence underlying cause first

Applicable To

  • Apnea
  • Cessation of breathing

Excludes

  • Respiratory failure (J96.-)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Absence of spontaneous respirations
  • Interventions such as CPR or mechanical ventilation required

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification with respiratory failure
  • Omitting underlying cause documentation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure to document the absence of breathing and any interventions performed.

Ancillary Codes

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

Poisoning by heroin, accidental (unintentional), initial encounter

T40.2X5A
Use when respiratory arrest is due to opioid overdose.

Differential Codes

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

Acute respiratory failure with hypoxia

J96.01
Use when there is inadequate gas exchange, not complete cessation of breathing.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Respiratory Arrest to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R09.2.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresents the patient's condition., Regulatory: May lead to compliance issues during audits., Financial: Incorrect DRG assignment affects reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure clear documentation of breathing cessation., Differentiate from respiratory distress in notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to inappropriate DRG assignment., Compliance: May result in audits due to coding discrepancies., Data Quality: Affects clinical data accuracy and patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Document the absence of breathing explicitly and differentiate from inadequate breathing.

Impact

Failure to code the underlying cause of respiratory arrest first.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate coders on sequencing rules and provide examples.

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

Documentation Templates for Respiratory Arrest

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

Inpatient Respiratory Arrest

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • Time of arrest
  • Interventions performed
  • Underlying cause
  • ABG results

Example Documentation

Patient experienced respiratory arrest at 14:30. CPR initiated immediately. Intubated and ventilated. ABG: pH 7.28, PaCO2 60 mmHg. Cause: opioid overdose.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient stopped breathing.
Good Documentation Example
Patient found apneic at 14:30, CPR started, intubated at 14:35 due to opioid overdose.
Explanation
The good example provides specific timing, interventions, and the underlying cause, which are essential for accurate coding.

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

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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