Coding tips: According to the guidelines, for all cases of documented septic shock, the code for the underlying systemic infection (i.e., sepsis) should be sequenced first, followed by code R65.

Is sepsis always coded first?

ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting directs us that when sepsis or severe sepsis is documented as being associated with a noninfectious condition, such as a burn or serious injury, and this condition meets the definition for principal diagnosis, the code for the noninfectious condition should be …

When is sepsis coded first?

Severe sepsis – Code first the underlying systemic infection, such as 038.0 (Streptococcal septicemia), then code 995.92 for severe sepsis, and finally code the specific type of organ failure, such as 584.9 for acute renal failure.