ICD-10 Coding for Staph Infection of the Arm(L03.113, L02.411)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Staph Infection of the Arm. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Staph Infection of the Arm
L03.11-L03.115Primary Range
Cellulitis of upper limb
Primary range for cellulitis of the arm, including laterality.
Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
Used to specify the causative organism, particularly MRSA or MSSA.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L03.113 | Cellulitis of right upper limb | Use when cellulitis is confirmed in the right arm. |
|
| L02.411 | Cutaneous abscess of right arm | Use when an abscess is confirmed in the right arm. |
|
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 staph infection arm
Essential facts and insights about Staph Infection of the Arm
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for staph infection arm
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of erythema and swelling in the right arm
documentation Criteria
- Documentation must specify right arm involvement
Applicable To
- Cellulitis of right arm
Excludes
- Abscess of right arm (L02.411)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Clinical signs of cellulitis such as erythema, warmth, and swelling
- Positive culture for Staphylococcus aureus
Code-Specific Risks
- Misidentifying the site or laterality
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies laterality and organism.
L02.411 - Cutaneous abscess of right arm
Use when an abscess is confirmed in the right arm.
Applicable To
- Abscess of right arm
Excludes
- Cellulitis of right arm (L03.113)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Ultrasound showing hypoechoic collection
- Positive culture for Staphylococcus aureus
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies abscess and organism.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
B95.62Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Staph Infection of the Arm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L03.113.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment accuracy., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document the affected side.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of patient condition.
Mitigation Strategy
Use B95.62 with the infection code.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of MRSA status.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure lab results are included in the patient's record.
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 Staph Infection of the Arm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Staph Infection of the Arm
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Staph Infection of the Arm. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
MRSA cellulitis of the arm
Specialty: Infectious DiseaseRequired Elements
- Site and laterality
- Organism and resistance
- Clinical findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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