NIHSS score 40-42
ICD-10 R29.74 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nihss score 40-42.
The NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) score of 40-42 indicates a severe level of neurological impairment due to a stroke. This score reflects significant deficits in consciousness, motor function, language, and sensory perception. Patients with such high scores typically exhibit profound weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, inability to speak or understand language, and may present with altered levels of consciousness. The NIHSS is a critical tool in assessing the severity of a stroke and guiding treatment decisions. A score in this range suggests a high likelihood of poor outcomes and necessitates immediate and aggressive medical intervention. Common causes of such severe strokes include large vessel occlusions, embolic strokes, or hemorrhagic strokes. The diagnostic approach involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as CT or MRI to confirm the type of stroke, and continuous monitoring of neurological status. Accurate coding of this condition is essential for appropriate treatment planning and resource allocation.
Detailed neurological examination findings, NIHSS score documentation, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with acute stroke symptoms, requiring hospitalization for management.
Ensure comprehensive documentation of all neurological deficits and response to treatment.
Immediate assessment of NIHSS score, imaging results, and initial treatment interventions.
Patients arriving at the emergency department with acute onset of stroke symptoms.
Timely documentation is critical for coding and treatment decisions.
Used when a patient with a high NIHSS score is evaluated in the emergency department.
Document the severity of symptoms, NIHSS score, and treatment provided.
Emergency medicine providers must ensure timely and accurate documentation to support the level of service.
A NIHSS score of 40-42 indicates severe neurological impairment, often associated with significant brain injury and a high likelihood of poor outcomes.
