Sepsis of newborn due to unspecified staphylococci

This code signifies a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in a neonate caused by an unspecified strain of Staphylococcus bacteria. It indicates a severe infection affecting the bloodstream and potentially other organs, specifically in a newborn patient.

Apply this code when documentation confirms neonatal sepsis and laboratory cultures or clinical findings point to a staphylococcal infection, but the specific species (e.g., aureus, epidermidis) is not identified. Use for newborns (0-28 days of life) presenting with signs of sepsis such as fever, lethargy, poor feeding, or respiratory distress, with a confirmed or suspected staphylococcal etiology.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for admission.
• Do not use if the specific species of Staphylococcus is known; instead, use a more specific code from the P36.3 category.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "newborn" or "neonatal" and specifies "unspecified staphylococci" as the causative agent.