NIHSS score 20-29
ICD-10 R29.72 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nihss score 20-29.
The NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score ranging from 20 to 29 indicates a severe level of neurological impairment due to a stroke. Patients scoring within this range typically exhibit significant deficits in consciousness, language, motor function, and sensory perception. Common symptoms include profound weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty in speaking or understanding language, and impaired coordination. These patients may also present with altered mental status, including confusion or decreased responsiveness. The NIHSS is a critical tool used in the assessment of stroke severity and helps guide treatment decisions and prognostic evaluations. A score in this range suggests a high risk for complications and a need for intensive monitoring and rehabilitation. Accurate documentation of the NIHSS score is essential for coding and billing purposes, as it reflects the severity of the patient's condition and the complexity of care required.
Comprehensive documentation of neurological assessments, including NIHSS scores and detailed descriptions of deficits.
Patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke or hemorrhagic stroke requiring hospitalization.
Ensure that all neurological assessments are documented in a timely manner to support coding and billing.
Immediate and accurate documentation of NIHSS scores upon patient presentation and throughout the emergency care process.
Patients arriving at the emergency department with stroke symptoms requiring rapid assessment and intervention.
Document any changes in neurological status during the emergency visit to support coding for severity.
Used when a patient with an NIHSS score of 20-29 presents to the emergency department.
Document the severity of the condition, including NIHSS score and clinical findings.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure that all assessments are clearly documented to support the level of service billed.
An NIHSS score of 20-29 indicates severe neurological impairment, suggesting significant deficits in motor function, language, and consciousness, requiring intensive medical intervention.
