Maternal care for (suspected) damage to fetus from alcohol
ICD-10 O35.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of maternal care for (suspected) damage to fetus from alcohol.
O35.4 is used to indicate maternal care for a fetus suspected to be damaged due to maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. This code is critical in identifying potential fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), which can lead to a range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems in the child. The documentation should reflect the maternal history of alcohol use, any prenatal diagnostic tests performed, and the assessment of fetal abnormalities. Prenatal care may include genetic counseling, ultrasound evaluations, and other diagnostic imaging to monitor fetal development and identify any abnormalities. It is essential for healthcare providers to document the extent of alcohol exposure, the timing during pregnancy, and any interventions or referrals made for further evaluation or support. This code emphasizes the importance of maternal health and the potential impact of substance use on fetal development, guiding healthcare providers in delivering appropriate care and counseling.
Detailed maternal history, including substance use, prenatal visits, and any referrals for counseling or support.
Pregnant women presenting with concerns about alcohol use, referrals for genetic counseling, and monitoring of fetal development through ultrasounds.
Accurate documentation of the timing and amount of alcohol exposure is crucial for proper coding and management.
Comprehensive assessments of fetal health, including genetic testing results and detailed ultrasound findings.
High-risk pregnancies with suspected fetal alcohol syndrome, requiring close monitoring and multidisciplinary care.
Collaboration with genetic counselors and pediatric specialists to address potential long-term effects on the child.
Used during prenatal visits when discussing maternal alcohol use and its implications.
Document the patient's history, risk factors, and any counseling provided.
Obstetricians should ensure that all relevant details about maternal substance use are included.
To support the use of O35.4, documentation should include a detailed maternal history of alcohol use, results from any prenatal diagnostic tests, and assessments of fetal health. It is also important to document any referrals for genetic counseling or additional evaluations.
