NIHSS score 4
ICD-10 R29.704 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nihss score 4.
The NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score of 4 indicates a mild to moderate stroke, characterized by specific neurological deficits. Patients with this score may exhibit symptoms such as slight weakness in one arm or leg, mild aphasia, or minor visual field deficits. The NIHSS is a critical tool used to assess the severity of stroke and guide treatment decisions. A score of 4 suggests that the patient has some functional impairment but is not severely disabled. Common causes of such a score include ischemic strokes, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or hemorrhagic strokes. The assessment involves a comprehensive neurological examination, including evaluation of consciousness, language, motor function, and sensory perception. Accurate documentation of the patient's neurological status and the specific deficits observed is essential for coding and treatment planning.
Detailed documentation of neurological deficits, including specific NIHSS components assessed.
Patients presenting with mild stroke symptoms in an outpatient or inpatient setting.
Ensure that all components of the NIHSS are documented to support the score assigned.
Immediate and thorough documentation of the patient's neurological status upon arrival.
Acute stroke presentations requiring rapid assessment and intervention.
Timeliness of documentation is critical; ensure that the NIHSS score is recorded promptly.
Used when a patient with an NIHSS score of 4 presents to the emergency department.
Document the patient's NIHSS score and clinical findings.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure timely documentation of neurological assessments.
An NIHSS score of 4 indicates mild to moderate neurological impairment, suggesting that the patient has some functional deficits but is not severely disabled.
