Acute respiratory failure with hypoxia

This code signifies a sudden and severe inability of the respiratory system to adequately oxygenate the blood, characterized by a low partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) in arterial blood. It indicates a life-threatening condition where the lungs cannot perform their gas exchange function efficiently, leading to hypoxemia.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "acute hypoxic respiratory failure" or "acute respiratory failure with hypoxia." This is appropriate for patients presenting with acute onset dyspnea, hypoxemia (e.g., SpO2 < 90% on room air, PaO2 < 60 mmHg), and clinical signs of respiratory distress requiring immediate intervention.

• Always confirm the acuity (acute vs. chronic) and the type of respiratory failure (hypoxic vs. hypercapnic) from provider documentation.
• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies hypercapnic respiratory failure (J96.02) or if the condition is chronic (J96.1x).
• Sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for admission, or as a secondary diagnosis if it develops during hospitalization.