ICD-10 Coding for Acute Hypokalemia(E87.6, E27.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Hypokalemia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Hypokalemia
E87.6Primary Range
Disorders of electrolyte balance
Primary code for hypokalemia, used when no underlying cause is documented.
Primary hyperaldosteronism
Used in conjunction with E87.6 when hypokalemia is secondary to hyperaldosteronism.
Hypertensive chronic kidney disease
Used when hypokalemia is associated with chronic kidney disease.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E87.6 | Hypokalemia | Use when hypokalemia is diagnosed without an underlying condition. |
|
| E27.1 | Primary hyperaldosteronism | Use when hypokalemia is secondary to hyperaldosteronism. |
|
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 hypokalemia
Essential facts and insights about Acute Hypokalemia
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute hypokalemia
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of symptoms and serum potassium <3.5 mEq/L
documentation Criteria
- Documented treatment for hypokalemia
Applicable To
- Low potassium levels
Excludes
- Hyperkalemia (E87.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Serum potassium <3.5 mEq/L
- Symptoms such as muscle weakness or arrhythmias
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding without symptoms or treatment documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation includes potassium levels and symptoms.
E27.1 - Primary hyperaldosteronism
Use when hypokalemia is secondary to hyperaldosteronism.
Applicable To
- Conn's syndrome
Excludes
- Secondary hyperaldosteronism (E87.4)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated aldosterone/renin ratio
- Refractory hypertension
Coding Notes
Ensure aldosterone levels are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Adverse effect of diuretics
T45.2X5ADocumentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Hypokalemia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E87.6.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment tracking, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Always document treatment plans, Include medication details
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied due to lack of supporting documentation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure documentation includes symptoms and treatment details.
Impact
Missing documentation of symptoms or treatment can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all relevant clinical details are documented.
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 Hypokalemia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Hypokalemia
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Hypokalemia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Presentation
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Serum potassium level
- Symptoms
- EKG findings
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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