Foley Catheter ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Foley Catheter?

Foley catheters are pivotal in managing many urinary conditions, making them a staple in medical practice. Accurately translating these interventions into medical codes is imperative for precise billing and comprehensive patient records. Within the scope of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) coding system, a range of codes encapsulates the diverse scenarios involving Foley catheters. 

This compilation thoroughly explores frequently utilized Foley Catheter ICD-10 codes, accompanied by detailed clinical descriptions for each code within the Foley catheter category.

1. N39.0 - Urinary tract infection, site not specified: Indicative of a patient grappling with a urinary tract infection (UTI), often correlated with a Foley catheter. This code encompasses catheter-associated and non-catheter-associated UTIs, encapsulating a spectrum of potential cases.
2. N39.3 - Stress incontinence (urinary): Pertinent when a Foley catheter is judiciously employed to address stress incontinence – a prevailing condition marked by inadvertent urine leakage during physical exertion.
3. R39.89 - Other specified symptoms and signs involving the urinary system: Embracing a broader spectrum, this code finds application when patients manifest specific urinary symptoms associated with Foley catheters, including discomfort, pain, or other distinct clinical presentations.
4. N39.41 - Mixed incontinence (urinary): Find relevance when an individual contends with a composite of stress and urge incontinence, with the management strategy incorporating the usage of a Foley catheter for a comprehensive approach.
5. N32.81 - Overactive bladder: Comes into play when a Foley catheter is enlisted as part of the strategy to manage overactive bladder, characterized by recurrent, sudden urges to urinate that might not necessarily align with the patient's intentions.
6. N39.8 - Other specified disorders of the urinary system: A versatile code encompassing cases wherein a Foley catheter is employed to address urinary disorders not explicitly accommodated by the preceding codes, thus demonstrating its adaptability.
7. Z46.82 - Encounter for fitting and adjustment of urinary devices: Applied when the patient's encounter is centered on the precise fitting, adjustment, or maintenance of a Foley catheter, underscoring the meticulous nature of the intervention.

Accurately translating Foley catheter interventions into ICD-10 codes is paramount for maintaining meticulous medical billing and comprehensive patient records. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to stay abreast of the latest coding guidelines and organizational practices to ensure compliance and precision. 

For a more in-depth exploration of medical billing and coding related to Foley catheters, you may watch this video: 

Which Foley Catheter ICD codes are Billable

Here's a list of commonly used Foley catheter-related ICD-10 codes, along with whether they are billable:

• N39.0 - Urinary tract infection, site not specified: Yes
• N39.3 - Stress incontinence (urinary): No (Generally not a primary code for billing a Foley catheter)
• R39.89 - Other specified symptoms and signs involving the urinary system: Yes
• N39.41 - Mixed incontinence (urinary): No (Generally not a primary code for billing a Foley catheter)
• N32.81 - Overactive bladder: No (Generally not a primary code for billing a Foley catheter)
• N39.8 - Other specified disorders of the urinary system: Yes‍
• Z46.82 - Encounter for fitting and adjustment of urinary devices: Yes

Clinical Information

• Foley catheters are commonly employed in urinary retention, post-surgical management, and critical care situations. They are used for patients with incontinence, immobility, or inability to void voluntarily.
• A foley catheter is a flexible tube inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The balloon at the catheter's tip is inflated with sterile water to hold the catheter securely within the bladder.
• Foley catheters come in various sizes and materials, including silicone and latex. Different sizes are used based on patient anatomy and clinical requirements.
• Proper hygiene during insertion reduces the risk of infection. Catheters should be regularly drained to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Bag placement and securing minimize infection risk.
• The risk of UTIs is elevated due to prolonged catheter use. Regular monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever or changes in urine appearance, is crucial. Catheter-associated UTIs can lead to sepsis if not managed promptly.
• Patients may experience discomfort during insertion and while the catheter is in place. Education on hygiene, drainage, and recognizing potential complications is essential.
• Catheters should be removed as soon as they are no longer necessary to minimize infection risk. Patients should be monitored post-removal for any residual discomfort or UTI symptoms.
• Accurate coding involves using appropriate ICD-10 codes based on the specific clinical scenario and procedure. Consultation with coding guidelines and payer policies ensures proper reimbursement.
• Age, medical history, and comorbidities impact the choice of Foley catheter and management approach. Special care is needed for pediatric and geriatric patients.

Foley catheter procedures are fundamental for managing urinary-related issues, but their application requires meticulous attention to patient comfort, hygiene, and timely removal to prevent complications. Healthcare providers must stay informed about the latest practices and guidelines for optimal care during Foley catheter management.

Synonyms Include

• Indwelling catheter
• Urinary catheter
• Retention catheter
• Balloon catheter
• Suprapubic catheter

Commonly asked questions