Metabolic acidemia in newborn
Chapter 16:Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period
ICD-10 P19 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of metabolic acidemia in newborn.
Metabolic acidemia in newborns is a condition characterized by an excess of acid in the blood, resulting from an imbalance between acid production and elimination. This condition can arise from various factors, including birth trauma, asphyxia during delivery, or maternal metabolic disorders. In the context of birth trauma, metabolic acidemia may occur due to inadequate oxygen supply to the fetus, leading to anaerobic metabolism and subsequent lactic acid accumulation. Clinically, newborns with metabolic acidemia may present with signs such as lethargy, poor feeding, respiratory distress, and altered muscle tone. Diagnosis typically involves arterial blood gas analysis, which reveals low pH and elevated levels of carbon dioxide and lactate. Prompt recognition and management are crucial to prevent long-term neurological damage and other complications. Treatment may include supportive care, correction of underlying causes, and in severe cases, interventions such as bicarbonate therapy. Understanding the etiology and implications of metabolic acidemia is essential for effective neonatal care and accurate coding.
Detailed documentation of clinical assessments, laboratory results, and treatment plans is essential. Neonatologists should ensure that all relevant findings are recorded to support the diagnosis of metabolic acidemia.
Common scenarios include newborns presenting with respiratory distress after a traumatic delivery or those with signs of asphyxia requiring immediate intervention in the NICU.
Neonatologists must consider the timing of acidemia onset and its correlation with delivery events to accurately code and manage the condition.
Pediatricians should document any ongoing effects of metabolic acidemia on growth and development, as well as any interventions required.
Pediatric scenarios may involve follow-up care for infants who experienced metabolic acidemia at birth and are now presenting with developmental delays.
Pediatricians should be aware of the long-term implications of metabolic acidemia and ensure that follow-up assessments are documented.
Used when a newborn with metabolic acidemia requires initial evaluation and management in the NICU.
Documentation must include clinical findings, assessments, and any interventions performed.
Neonatologists should ensure that all relevant details are captured to support the complexity of care provided.
Common causes include birth trauma, asphyxia during delivery, maternal metabolic disorders, and conditions leading to inadequate oxygenation of the fetus.
