ICD-10 Coding for Electrolyte Derangement(E87.5, E87.6, E87.8)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Electrolyte Derangement. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Electrolyte Derangement
E87.0-E87.9Primary Range
Disorders of fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance
This range includes all electrolyte imbalances, such as hyperkalemia, hypokalemia, and mixed electrolyte disorders.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| E87.5 | Hyperkalemia | Use when potassium levels are elevated and documented by the provider. |
|
| E87.6 | Hypokalemia | Use when potassium levels are low and documented by the provider. |
|
| E87.8 | Other disorders of electrolyte and fluid balance, not elsewhere classified | Use for mixed or non-specific electrolyte imbalances. |
|
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 electrolyte derangement
Essential facts and insights about Electrolyte Derangement
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for electrolyte derangement
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Potassium level >5.0 mEq/L with clinical symptoms
Applicable To
- High potassium levels
Excludes
- Familial periodic paralysis (G72.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Potassium level >5.0 mEq/L
- ECG changes such as peaked T waves
Code-Specific Risks
- Ensure documentation supports hyperkalemia even if lab values are normal.
Coding Notes
- Sequence E87.5 after underlying condition if hyperkalemia is a comorbid condition.
E87.6 - Hypokalemia
Use when potassium levels are low and documented by the provider.
Applicable To
- Low potassium levels
Excludes
- Electrolyte imbalance in pregnancy (O21.1, O08.5)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Potassium level <3.5 mEq/L
- Symptoms such as muscle weakness or cramps
Coding Notes
Sequence E87.6 after underlying condition if hypokalemia is a comorbid condition.
E87.8 - Other disorders of electrolyte and fluid balance, not elsewhere classified
Use for mixed or non-specific electrolyte imbalances.
Applicable To
- Mixed electrolyte imbalances
Excludes
- SIADH (E22.2)
- Diabetic ketoacidosis (E10.10)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of mixed or unspecified electrolyte imbalances
Coding Notes
Use E87.8 when specific electrolyte imbalances are not documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Electrolyte Derangement to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code E87.5.
Impact
Clinical: Lack of specificity can lead to inadequate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding specificity requirements., Financial: Potential claim denials due to vague documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the type of electrolyte imbalance and related clinical details.
Impact
Reimbursement: Potential denial of claims due to lack of supporting documentation., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines requiring provider documentation., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure provider documentation supports the diagnosis even if lab values are normal.
Impact
Risk of audits if documentation does not support coded diagnoses.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of clinical symptoms and treatment.
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 Electrolyte Derangement, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Electrolyte Derangement
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Electrolyte Derangement. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Progress Note for Cardiology
Specialty: CardiologyRequired Elements
- Potassium level
- Clinical symptoms
- Treatment plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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