RE: Coding CKD Stages

tkreilingtkreiling
in CDI Talk Archive
I know this is an old post but was wondering where I can find this information. We had discussion on this yesterday and found that some coders were using the lower stage and some the higher stage. The coders have been instructed at this point to use the lower stage, unless we send out a query. If anyone can direct me towards some info on this I would appreciate it.
Thank you.

Comments

  • robert.hodges2robert.hodges2
    edited May 2016
    I always query to get the providers to stage the chronic kidney disease per National Kidney Foundation guidelines. Be cautious, that acute changes are being documented as chronic. By definition, for the kidney disease to be chronic it must be present for over 3 months. Anything less should be documented as acute. We use RIFLE criteria for acute changes.

    The bottom line is if it is not specified the provider should be queried to provide specification. I'm attaching the link to the pocket guide I put together for providers here so you can see my references. It is posted on the ACDIS website in the forms and tools library at http://www.hcpro.com/content/253545.pdf. As I recall it's a little to big to attach to the reply.

    Hope this helps.

    Robert

    Robert S. Hodges, BSN, MSN, RN
    Clinical Documentation Improvement Specialist
    Aleda E. Lutz VAMC
    Mail Code 136
    1500 Weiss Street
    Saginaw MI 48602
     
    P: 989-497-2500 x13101
    F: 989-321-4912
    E: Robert.Hodges2@va.gov
     
    "The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and the lightning bug." Samuel "Mark Twain" Clemens

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