NIHSS score 34
ICD-10 R29.734 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nihss score 34.
The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) is a systematic assessment tool that provides a quantitative measure of stroke-related neurologic deficit. A score of 34 indicates a severe stroke, reflecting significant impairment in multiple areas including consciousness, language, motor function, and sensory perception. Patients with such a high score typically exhibit profound weakness or paralysis, altered consciousness, and may require immediate medical intervention. The NIHSS is crucial for determining the severity of the stroke, guiding treatment decisions, and predicting patient outcomes. It is essential for coders to understand the implications of a high NIHSS score, as it correlates with increased morbidity and mortality rates. Accurate documentation of the NIHSS score, along with the clinical findings that led to this assessment, is vital for appropriate coding and reimbursement.
Detailed documentation of neurological assessments, including NIHSS scores and related clinical findings.
Patients presenting with acute stroke symptoms, requiring comprehensive evaluation and management.
Ensure that all relevant comorbidities and their impact on the NIHSS score are documented.
Immediate and thorough documentation of NIHSS scores upon patient presentation.
Acute stroke presentations requiring rapid assessment and intervention.
Timeliness of documentation is critical; ensure that all assessments are recorded promptly.
Used when a patient with a high NIHSS score presents to the emergency department.
Document the severity of symptoms and the NIHSS score.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure timely and accurate documentation.
A NIHSS score of 34 indicates severe neurological impairment, often associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It reflects the need for immediate medical intervention.
