Postprocedural septic shock, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a patient experiencing septic shock that developed as a complication following a medical or surgical procedure, and the patient is currently receiving active treatment for this condition. It indicates a severe, life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, directly linked to a prior intervention.

Use this code when a patient presents for ongoing management of septic shock that originated after a procedure, such as surgery, catheter insertion, or other invasive medical intervention. This applies to follow-up visits, readmissions, or continued hospitalization for the treatment of the postprocedural septic shock.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the underlying infection causing the sepsis.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the septic shock to a specific prior procedure.
• Verify that the encounter is for active treatment or follow-up of the septic shock, not the initial diagnosis.