ICD-10 Coding for Acute Renal Insufficiency(R94.4, N17.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Renal Insufficiency. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Renal Insufficiency
R94.4Primary Range
Abnormal kidney function tests
Used for documenting abnormal kidney function when acute renal insufficiency is diagnosed without meeting acute kidney injury criteria.
Acute kidney failure and chronic kidney disease
Includes codes for acute kidney injury (AKI) which may be used if acute renal insufficiency progresses to meet AKI criteria.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| R94.4 | Abnormal kidney function tests | Use when lab results indicate mild renal dysfunction without meeting AKI criteria. |
|
| N17.9 | Acute kidney failure, unspecified | Use when AKI criteria are met, indicating significant renal impairment. |
|
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 renal insufficiency
Essential facts and insights about Acute Renal Insufficiency
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute renal insufficiency
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Creatinine increase <1.5x baseline
documentation Criteria
- Absence of oliguria
Applicable To
- Mild renal dysfunction
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Creatinine increase <1.5x baseline
- No oliguria
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if AKI criteria are met
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies lab values and clinical context to differentiate from AKI.
N17.9 - Acute kidney failure, unspecified
Use when AKI criteria are met, indicating significant renal impairment.
Applicable To
- Acute renal failure
Excludes
- Chronic kidney disease (N18.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Creatinine increase ≥1.5x baseline
- Oliguria <0.5 mL/kg/hr for 6 hours
Coding Notes
Ensure AKI criteria are documented clearly to support this code.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Dehydration
E86.0Differential 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 Renal Insufficiency to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R94.4.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit findings., Financial: Potential for incorrect billing and reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure lab results are included in documentation, Clarify clinical context and treatment response
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to inappropriate DRG assignment., Compliance: Misclassification can result in audit issues., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of clinical data and outcomes tracking.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify lab values and clinical context to ensure correct code selection.
Impact
Inaccurate documentation can lead to coding errors and audit findings.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement thorough documentation practices and regular audits.
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 Renal Insufficiency, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Renal Insufficiency
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Renal Insufficiency. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute renal insufficiency due to dehydration
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Diagnosis
- Lab results
- Clinical context
- Treatment plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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