In cases of severe sepsis with acute organ dysfunction, which additional code should be assigned?

In cases of severe sepsis with acute organ dysfunction, the additional code assigned should be R65.2, which specifically corresponds to "Severe sepsis with acute organ failure." This code is part of the R65 category in ICD-10-CM, which is used to classify severe sepsis and its associated complications.

Severe sepsis is defined as sepsis accompanied by organ dysfunction, and R65.2 allows for precise documentation of the condition, ensuring that it reflects both the severity of the sepsis and the presence of organ impairment. This level of specificity is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, resource allocation, and reimbursement processes. Proper coding emphasizes the severity of the patient’s condition and can affect clinical decisions and outcomes.

Other coded options do not accurately convey the combination of severe sepsis and acute organ dysfunction. Thus, R65.2 is the correct choice to classify this serious medical condition appropriately.