AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 143

View MR 099407 -

MR 099407 -

Emergency Department Visit -
Chief Complaint: VOMITING.
This started just prior to arrival and is still present. He has had nausea and vomiting. No diarrhea, black stools, bloody stools or abdominal pain. Pt is diabetic and has been having elevated blood sugars (320 mg/dL).
REVIEW OF SYSTEMS: Unobtainable due to patient's altered mental status.
PAST HISTORY: Poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, with history of poor compliance.
Medications: See Nurses Notes.
Allergies: PCN.
SOCIAL HISTORY: Nonsmoker. No alcohol use or drug use.
ADDITIONAL NOTES: The nursing notes have been reviewed.

PHYSICAL EXAM -
Appearance: Lethargic. Patient in mild distress.
Vital Signs: Have been reviewed-tachycardic.
Eyes: Pupils equal, round and reactive to light.
ENT: Dry mucous membranes present.
Neck: Normal inspection. Neck supple.
CVS: Tachycardia. Heart sounds normal. Pulses normal.
E D. Course: Insulin IV drip per protocol, at 10 units/hr.
Zofran 8 mg 01:33 Jul 13 2008 IVP.
Phenergan 25 mg IVP. 07:52. Discussed case with physician. Dr. X. Reviewed test results. Agreed upon treatment plan. Physician will see patient in hospital.
Total critical care time: 45 min.
Disposition: Admitted to Intensive Care Unit. Condition: stable.
Admit decision based on need for monitoring and IV hydration and medications.
CLINICAL IMPRESSION: Vomiting, diabetic ketoacidosis, probable diabetes insipidus.
What E/M code is reported for this encounter?

Answer options

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A (99291), which is the code for critical care services requiring at least 30 minutes of direct face-to-face time with the patient. Options B, C, and D are not appropriate because they either involve additional codes for different services or do not meet the criteria for critical care based on the information provided.