9. If there is an imminent or threatened condition that was speculated as probable, if it happened by the time of discharge, code it as confirmed diagnosis. If it did not happen, list it as impending or threatened by referring to the alphabetical code.
How do you code an impending diagnosis?
Impending or Threatened Condition
- If it did occur, code as confirmed diagnosis.
- If it did not occur, reference the Alphabetic Index to determine if the condition has a subentry term for “impending” or “threatened” and also reference main term entries for “Impending” and for “Threatened.”
When should an uncertain diagnosis be coded as though it existed?
In the inpatient setting for facility diagnosis coding, you may report suspected or rule out diagnoses as if the condition exists. If a diagnosis is uncertain at the time of discharge, the condition should be coded as if it existed or was established.
