Empiric

annnd2009@gmail.comannnd2009@gmail.com
in CDI Talk Archive
Can anyone cite a reference for empiric not being equivalent to possible/probably?

I was explaining (hopefully correctly)that treating empirically for MRSA pneumonia patient does not allow for coding of MRSA pneumonia but stating treating for possible MRSA pneumonia would.

An alternate way of stating would be treating for evidence of MRSA pna (that would allow for coding of condition).

Correct me where I am wrong and if anyone knows reference, I greatly appreciate it.

Ann Donnelly
annnd2009@gmail.com

Comments

  • afloydafloyd
    We have had similar issues with the use of the term "epmiric treatment" and yes, it's usually associated with a gram negative pneumonia. We went as far as to query Coding Clinic since we couldn't find a guideline or source. Their response was to query the attending physician for clarification if there is a conflict in documentation or uncertainty regarding a patient's diagnosis.

    Not exactly what we were hoping for....

    Hope this helps,
    April Floyd, RN, CCDS
    Director of CDCI
    Anderson RMC
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