If a poisoning is documented, how should it be coded?

When coding for a poisoning, it is crucial to reflect the final diagnosis. This approach ensures that the documentation accurately captures the outcome of the poisoning episode, providing a clear picture of the patient's condition at the time of diagnosis.

In cases of poisoning, the medical record typically includes details regarding the specific substance involved and the severity of the poisoning, which can impact treatment decisions. By coding the final diagnosis, the coder emphasizes the complication or condition that arose from the poisoning event, thereby facilitating appropriate care and ensuring that the patient's records reflect the impact of the poisoning on their health.

The other options do not appropriately represent the coding guidelines for poisonings. Coding according to severity or as an additional code may not necessarily lead to an accurate portrayal of the patient's condition in regard to the poisoning. Similarly, coding under-dosing does not apply when the focus is on the effects of a poisoning incident. Thus, the final diagnosis provides the most comprehensive understanding of the situation and adheres to proper coding practices.