Sepsis following a procedure, sequela

This code signifies a patient is experiencing the long-term or residual effects of sepsis that developed as a complication of a previous medical or surgical procedure. It indicates that the acute septic episode has resolved, but its lasting consequences are now being addressed. These sequelae can include organ damage, cognitive impairment, or chronic pain.

Use this code when documenting the treatment of conditions directly attributable to a past episode of post-procedural sepsis, after the acute infection has cleared. This applies to follow-up visits or admissions for managing the chronic complications. It should be assigned when the sequela, not the active sepsis, is the focus of care.

• Always sequence the specific sequela code (e.g., chronic kidney disease, cognitive deficit) first, followed by this code.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to a previous episode of post-procedural sepsis.
• Verify that the "S" seventh character is appropriate, indicating a sequela, not an initial encounter or subsequent encounter for the acute sepsis.