Question

What is the coding and sequencing for a patient admitted with a diagnosis of "Healed stage 3 pressure ulcer of the right lower back, current stage 4 pressure ulcer of the sacral region with gangrene?"

A. I96, L89.154
B. L89.133, L89.154, I96
C. I96, L89.133
D. L89.154, I96

Answer 1

The correct coding for a patient admitted with a healed stage 3 pressure ulcer and a current stage 4 pressure ulcer with gangrene is D. L89.154, I96. The code L89.154 is for the stage 4 pressure ulcer and I96 is for gangrene. The correct answer is option D .

Step-by-step explanation:

The question concerns the appropriate coding and sequencing for a patient with multiple pressure ulcers, specifically a healed stage 3 pressure ulcer and a current stage 4 pressure ulcer with gangrene. In medical coding, particularly using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), accurate documentation and specificity are essential for patient care, billing, and statistical purposes. Considering the information provided, the correct codes would reflect both the healed ulcer and the current condition with its complications.

It is essential to sequence the codes correctly, placing the most critical and current condition as the primary diagnosis. The presence of gangrene with a stage 4 pressure ulcer indicates a severe and immediate condition that requires priority in coding. Therefore, the proper coding would be:

1. L89.154 - Pressure ulcer of sacral region, stage 4
2. I96 - Gangrene, not elsewhere classified

While there is a history of a healed stage 3 pressure ulcer, it is not the current condition that prompted the admission. Given that, the answer is D. L89.154, I96. The first code, L89.154, specifies the location and stage of the current pressure ulcer, while I96 indicates the presence of gangrene. This coding reflects the primary reasons for the patient's current health care encounter and would guide appropriate treatment.