Jaime is a 9-year-old obese boy. Jaime's pediatrician suspects that he may have hypertension due to his weight, but has not come to a conclusive diagnosis yet. So far, he has had two elevated blood pressure readings, but has not been diagnosed with hypertension. Jaime saw his pediatrician today for a blood pressure reading, which was elevated. What is the correct diagnosis code for Jaime's office visit?
A)401.9
B)401.0
C)405.9
D)796.2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct diagnosis code for Jaime's office visit is 796.2. According to the ICD-9 manual, the code 796.2 (Elevated Blood Pressure Reading Without Diagnosis of Hypertension) should be used for an incidental elevated high blood pressure reading, or in any case where there is a high blood pressure reading without a diagnosis of hypertension. Although Jaime's blood pressure reading today was high, he has not been officially diagnosed with hypertension, therefore the correct diagnosis is 796.2.

Jaime Is a 9-Year-Old Obese Boy