Acute stress reaction
ICD-10 F43.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute stress reaction.
Acute stress reaction is a psychological response that occurs in the aftermath of a traumatic event, characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, dissociation, and emotional distress. This condition typically arises within hours to days following exposure to a traumatic incident, such as a natural disaster, serious accident, or violent assault. Symptoms may include intrusive thoughts, heightened arousal, avoidance behaviors, and emotional numbing. The duration of these symptoms can vary, but they generally resolve within a few days to weeks. If symptoms persist beyond this period, the diagnosis may shift to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Acute stress reactions can significantly impair an individual's ability to function in daily life, necessitating timely intervention and support. Treatment often involves psychological first aid, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and, in some cases, pharmacotherapy to manage anxiety and distress. Understanding the nuances of acute stress reactions is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment, as well as for accurate medical coding.
Detailed patient history, including the nature of the traumatic event and symptom onset.
Patients presenting after a natural disaster or violent incident.
Consideration of comorbid conditions such as depression or anxiety disorders.
Immediate assessment of symptoms and potential referral for psychiatric evaluation.
Patients presenting to the ER after traumatic events.
Rapid assessment and documentation of acute symptoms to facilitate timely intervention.
Used for therapy sessions addressing acute stress reactions.
Document the focus of therapy on trauma-related symptoms.
Psychiatrists should ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the diagnosis.
Acute stress reaction occurs within days to weeks following a traumatic event, while PTSD is diagnosed when symptoms persist for more than a month.
