Acute respiratory distress
ICD-10 R06.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute respiratory distress.
Acute respiratory distress is characterized by a sudden onset of respiratory failure, often manifesting as severe shortness of breath, hypoxemia, and increased work of breathing. Patients may present with tachypnea, use of accessory muscles for breathing, and cyanosis. This condition can arise from various underlying causes, including pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Clinical evaluation typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, along with imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans, and laboratory tests including arterial blood gases (ABGs) to assess oxygenation and carbon dioxide levels. The urgency of the condition necessitates prompt identification and management of the underlying cause, as well as supportive care, which may include supplemental oxygen or mechanical ventilation. Accurate coding of acute respiratory distress requires careful documentation of the clinical findings and the context in which the symptoms arise.
Detailed history of present illness, physical exam findings, and results of diagnostic tests.
Patients presenting with acute exacerbations of chronic conditions or new onset respiratory symptoms.
Ensure clarity in distinguishing between acute and chronic respiratory issues.
Immediate assessment findings, interventions performed, and response to treatment.
Patients arriving with acute shortness of breath, often requiring rapid intervention.
Document the urgency and severity of the condition to support the acute coding.
Used in conjunction with acute respiratory distress management.
Document the indication for treatment and response.
Emergency medicine may require rapid documentation due to the acute nature.
Acute respiratory distress is characterized by a sudden onset of respiratory failure, often requiring immediate intervention, while chronic respiratory failure is a long-term condition that may not require acute treatment.
