Small differences in sepsis and SIRS guidelines can result in major differences in reimbursement. Sepsis, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and septicemia have historically been difficult to code. ICD-10-CM has introduced lots of changes to sepsis and SIRS coding. It’s critical to code sepsis properly due to the impact the diagnosis has on reimbursement. For example, consider the following case study: A 39-year-old patient was admitted with the diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia in the setting of presumptive influenza and concurrent sepsis. In the history and physical exam, it was documented that the patient had sepsis and SIRS, meeting the criteria of leukocytosis, fever, and tachypnea, with pneumonia as the source. The sputum culture was positive for pseudomonas pneumonia. The patient had a six-day stay. The discharge diagnoses were influenza with pneumonia bacterial superinfection, positive for pseudomonas, as well as acidosis, asthma exa...
Medical Coding is an evolving Industry in India. It is projected to grow faster than any other healthcare sector. Coders are going to be in great demand in the very near future! Being a Certified Coder adds a feather to your cap and emphasizes the fact that you are a dedicated professional coder.