Aspiration (early presentation, documented aspiration)

59 - Aspiration (early presentation, documented aspiration)

• • 3659 - Pneumonia - aspiration (not sure where acquired)
  • 3759 - Pneumonia - aspiration which was community acquire CAP
  • 3859 - Pneumonia - aspiration which was hospital acquired HAP

• UPL universal pathogen subcode 59, should only be used in conjunction with HAP and CAP

Dr. Garland would like to see the chemical aspiration code used instead of the aspiration subcode in the pathogen section.

• • Dr Garland suggested using pneumonitis 2nd Chemical Aspiration (3019) more often than we currently do. He said that if the cultures come back positive within 48 hours after admission, it would be coded as a CAP and if after 48 hours, it would be coded as a HAP, but in any event you could leave the chemical aspiration code in place if you have room in the diagnosis section. (If intubated for at least 48 hours it could also be a VAP if all other criteria are met.) Let me know if this helps to clarify this area which is sometimes a bit confusing. --LKolesar 08:29, 2013 March 5 (EST)
  • HI Laura, I'd like some clarification. If a pt. aspirates on food or drink at home/hospital Dr. Garland would like us to use the "pneumonitis 2nd" code plus the CAP/HAP? JK

Also see: Pneumonitis 2nd Chemical Aspiration