Asphyxia

This code represents a condition characterized by severe oxygen deprivation, leading to impaired breathing and potentially loss of consciousness. It signifies a state where the body is unable to take in sufficient oxygen or remove adequate carbon dioxide.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of asphyxia due to an unspecified cause. This may be used in cases of acute respiratory failure where the underlying etiology of oxygen deprivation is not yet determined or specified. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the patient's respiratory distress and diagnosis of asphyxia.

• Do not use this code if a more specific cause of asphyxia (e.g., birth asphyxia, traumatic asphyxia) is documented; instead, code the specific type.
• Always sequence this code as a principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity.
• Ensure documentation differentiates between asphyxia and other forms of respiratory distress or failure; this code specifically refers to oxygen deprivation.