Alcohol abuse with intoxication delirium

This code signifies a pattern of problematic alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, specifically when the individual is currently experiencing delirium due to acute alcohol intoxication. Delirium in this context is characterized by an acute disturbance in attention, awareness, and cognition directly attributable to the intoxicating effects of alcohol.

This code is appropriate for patients presenting with symptoms of alcohol abuse who are also actively experiencing an acute confusional state, disorientation, and cognitive impairment directly caused by recent alcohol consumption. Documentation should clearly link the delirium to the current alcohol intoxication and indicate a history of problematic alcohol use.

• Ensure documentation differentiates between alcohol withdrawal delirium and intoxication delirium; this code is for intoxication.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated physical conditions.
• Verify the provider's documentation explicitly states "delirium" in the context of current alcohol intoxication and problematic alcohol use.