ICD-10 Coding for Acute Asthma Exacerbation(J45.901, J45.902)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Asthma Exacerbation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Asthma Exacerbation
J45Primary Range
Asthma
This range includes all types of asthma, including acute exacerbations and status asthmaticus.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| J45.901 | Unspecified asthma with (acute) exacerbation | Use when the type of asthma is unspecified but an acute exacerbation is documented. |
|
| J45.902 | Unspecified asthma with status asthmaticus | Use when status asthmaticus is documented, indicating a severe exacerbation requiring intensive treatment. |
|
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 acute asthma exacerbation
Essential facts and insights about Acute Asthma Exacerbation
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute asthma exacerbation
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of acute exacerbation symptoms and increased medication use.
Applicable To
- Unspecified asthma with acute exacerbation
Excludes
- Status asthmaticus (J45.902)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented acute exacerbation
- Increased use of rescue inhalers
- Worsening symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified code when more specific information is available.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'acute exacerbation' to justify this code.
J45.902 - Unspecified asthma with status asthmaticus
Use when status asthmaticus is documented, indicating a severe exacerbation requiring intensive treatment.
Applicable To
- Unspecified asthma with status asthmaticus
Excludes
- Acute exacerbation without status asthmaticus (J45.901)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of status asthmaticus
- ICU admission or continuous treatment requirement
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies 'status asthmaticus' to justify this code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Contact with and (suspected) exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (acute) (chronic)
Z77.22Differential 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 Acute Asthma Exacerbation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J45.901.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate providers on the importance of detailed documentation., Use templates to ensure all necessary information is captured.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query the provider for additional details to assign a more specific code.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation supports the use of specific codes.
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 Acute Asthma Exacerbation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Asthma Exacerbation
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Asthma Exacerbation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Asthma Exacerbation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Symptom duration
- Rescue inhaler use
- Triggers
- Physical exam findings
- Treatment provided
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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