Acute Renal Failure Trial Network Study

Usage Guidelines & Examples

• Use N17.0 for acute tubular necrosis due to ischemia or nephrotoxins; use T86.12 for acute renal failure due to complications of a transplant.
• Do not use N17.0 for chronic renal failure or acute kidney injury due to pre-existing chronic conditions.
• Compare with N17.9 (acute kidney failure, unspecified) for cases where the specific cause is not identified.
• Common errors include misclassifying acute renal failure as chronic; ensure documentation supports the acute diagnosis.
• In complex cases, consider the underlying cause of renal failure and document accordingly to select the appropriate code.

Documentation Templates

Template: 'Patient diagnosed with acute tubular necrosis based on elevated serum creatinine and decreased urine output.'

Template: 'Clinical presentation consistent with acute renal failure including oliguria and fluid overload.'

Template: 'Diagnostic criteria for acute tubular necrosis met as evidenced by renal function tests and imaging studies.'

Template: 'Treatment plan initiated for acute renal failure with fluid management and nephrology consultation.'

Template: 'Follow-up care for acute tubular necrosis including monitoring of renal function and electrolyte levels.'