Repeated falls

This diagnosis code signifies a patient experiencing recurrent episodes of losing balance and falling, indicating an underlying instability or predisposition to falls. It describes an active problem of repeated falls, rather than a single fall event or a general risk factor.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "repeated falls," "recurrent falls," or "history of multiple falls" that are currently ongoing or within a recent timeframe. This code is appropriate when the falls are a primary concern or contributing factor to the patient's current presentation, requiring evaluation or intervention.

• Do not use this code for a single fall event; instead, code the specific injury sustained from the fall.
• Distinguish carefully between "repeated falls" and "at risk for falling" (Z91.81) or "history of falling" (Z91.81), which are excluded.
• Always sequence this code after any acute injuries resulting from the falls, if applicable.