Projectile vomiting
ICD-10 R11.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of projectile vomiting.
Projectile vomiting is characterized by the forceful expulsion of stomach contents, often occurring suddenly and with significant velocity. This symptom can be indicative of various underlying conditions, particularly those affecting the gastrointestinal tract or central nervous system. Projectile vomiting is distinct from regular vomiting due to its intensity and the distance the vomitus travels. It is commonly associated with conditions such as increased intracranial pressure, pyloric stenosis in infants, and certain types of gastrointestinal obstructions. The clinical presentation may include additional symptoms such as abdominal pain, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances. In infants, projectile vomiting can be a sign of serious conditions like hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, which requires prompt diagnosis and intervention. The diagnostic approach typically involves a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and may include imaging studies or laboratory tests to identify the underlying cause. Understanding the context and potential severity of projectile vomiting is crucial for appropriate management and coding.
Detailed history of present illness, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms.
Patients presenting with unexplained vomiting, abdominal pain, or neurological symptoms.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may contribute to vomiting.
Acute care documentation including vital signs, immediate interventions, and response to treatment.
Acute presentations of projectile vomiting due to head trauma or gastrointestinal obstruction.
Rapid assessment and documentation of potential life-threatening conditions.
Used when a patient presents with projectile vomiting and requires immediate evaluation.
Document the severity of symptoms, interventions performed, and any diagnostic tests ordered.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure thorough documentation of the acute presentation.
Documentation should include the onset, frequency, and characteristics of the vomiting, associated symptoms, and any relevant medical history or findings from physical examination.
