ICD-10 Coding for Suicide(R45.851, T14.91XA)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Suicide. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Suicide
R45.85Primary Range
Symptoms and signs involving emotional state
This range includes codes for suicidal ideation and related emotional states.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R45.851 | Suicidal ideations | Use when a patient expresses thoughts of suicide without any action taken. |
|
| T14.91XA | Suicide attempt | Use when there is a documented attempt to commit suicide. |
|
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 suicidal ideation
Essential facts and insights about Suicide
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for suicide
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient expresses suicidal thoughts without a specific plan.
Applicable To
- Thoughts of suicide
- Suicidal thoughts without action
Excludes
- Suicide attempt (T14.91XA)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Patient reports persistent thoughts of suicide without a plan
- PHQ-9 item 9 score ≥2
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if intent is not clearly documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the absence of a suicide plan.
T14.91XA - Suicide attempt
Use when there is a documented attempt to commit suicide.
Applicable To
- Attempted suicide
- Failed suicide attempt
Excludes
- Suicidal ideation (R45.851)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented attempt to end life
- Toxicology reports confirming overdose
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation includes the method and intent of the attempt.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Suicide to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R45.851.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate risk assessment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific patient quotes., Document detailed plans or methods.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Pair with R45.851 or T14.91XA for current episodes.
Impact
Inadequate documentation can lead to audit failures.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all documentation includes specific intent and methods.
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 Suicide, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Suicide
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Suicide. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Suicidal Ideation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Patient's expressed intent
- Specific method description
- Risk and protective factors
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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