Patient is admitted following an outpatient procedure because of an exacerbation of the patient's asthma. What is the principal diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principal diagnosis should reflect the condition that prompted the admission, which in this case is the exacerbation of the patient's asthma. The reason for the patient's outpatient procedure may be listed as a secondary diagnosis, but it should not be the principal diagnosis. A code for cancellation of the procedure or an aftercare V code are not appropriate choices in this scenario.

Patient Is Admitted Following an Outpatient Procedure Because of an Exacerbation