Sepsis following an obstetrical procedure

This code signifies a severe systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) caused by infection, specifically occurring as a complication after any obstetrical procedure. It indicates a life-threatening organ dysfunction resulting from a dysregulated host response to an infection acquired post-delivery or post-abortion.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states sepsis developed after an obstetrical procedure, such as a C-section, vaginal delivery with episiotomy, or abortion. Supporting documentation should include evidence of infection, systemic inflammatory response, and a clear link to the preceding obstetrical intervention.

• Always code the underlying infection (e.g., puerperal infection, wound infection) first, followed by this sepsis code.
• Do not use this code for sepsis unrelated to an obstetrical procedure; consider codes from the A40-A41 series for other types of sepsis.
• Ensure documentation specifies "sepsis" or "septic shock" and explicitly links it to the obstetrical procedure, not just a general postpartum infection.