ICD-10 Coding for Creatinine Elevation(R94.4, N18.9, N17.9)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Creatinine Elevation. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Creatinine Elevation
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 results of kidney function studies | Use when creatinine is elevated but no CKD or AKI is diagnosed |
|
| N18.9 | Chronic kidney disease, unspecified | Use when CKD is present but not staged |
|
| N17.9 | Acute kidney failure, unspecified | Use when AKI is confirmed but not specified |
|
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 elevated creatinine
Essential facts and insights about Creatinine Elevation
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for creatinine elevation
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Isolated elevated creatinine without CKD or AKI
Applicable To
- Elevated creatinine without confirmed CKD or AKI
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Isolated elevated creatinine levels
- No confirmed diagnosis of CKD or AKI
Code-Specific Risks
- May lead to under-coding if CKD or AKI is present but not documented
Coding Notes
- Ensure no underlying CKD or AKI is present before using R94.4
N18.9 - Chronic kidney disease, unspecified
Use when CKD is present but not staged
Applicable To
- Chronic kidney disease without specific stage
Excludes
- Acute kidney failure (N17.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- eGFR <60 for ≥3 months
Coding Notes
Ensure CKD is confirmed and documented
N17.9 - Acute kidney failure, unspecified
Use when AKI is confirmed but not specified
Applicable To
- Acute kidney failure without specific cause
Excludes
- Chronic kidney disease (N18.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Acute rise in creatinine meeting KDIGO criteria
Coding Notes
Ensure AKI is confirmed and documented
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 Creatinine Elevation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R94.4.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate representation of kidney function, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure eGFR is documented, Confirm CKD stage with nephrologist
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement, Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines, Data Quality: Inaccurate data representation
Mitigation Strategy
Confirm and document CKD or AKI before coding
Impact
Failure to document CKD stage accurately
Mitigation Strategy
Regular training on CKD staging criteria
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 Creatinine Elevation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Creatinine Elevation
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Creatinine Elevation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Nephrology Progress Note
Specialty: NephrologyRequired Elements
- Patient symptoms
- Blood pressure readings
- Creatinine levels
- eGFR values
- Diagnosis and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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