Respiratory arrest

This code signifies the complete cessation of breathing, meaning the patient has stopped inhaling and exhaling. It represents a life-threatening emergency where the respiratory system fails to maintain adequate gas exchange.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states "respiratory arrest" as the patient's condition. This is typically encountered in emergency department settings, critical care, or during resuscitation efforts. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate the absence of spontaneous respiration.

• Do not code with cardiac arrest (I46.-) as per Excludes1 note; if both occur, code cardiac arrest first.
• Distinguish from respiratory failure (J96.-) or respiratory insufficiency (R06.89), which indicate impaired but not absent breathing.
• Always look for an underlying cause of the respiratory arrest to code in conjunction, if known.