Hypothermia following anesthesia, subsequent encounter

This code signifies a patient experiencing abnormally low body temperature as a complication of anesthesia, specifically during a subsequent encounter for treatment or monitoring of this condition. It indicates that the initial event of hypothermia has already occurred, and the patient is now receiving ongoing care related to it.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, such as re-evaluation, further treatment, or management of hypothermia that developed after an anesthetic procedure. This includes scenarios where the patient is admitted for observation or readmitted due to persistent or recurring post-anesthesia hypothermia.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the hypothermia is a direct consequence of anesthesia.
• This "D" seventh character is for subsequent encounters, meaning the patient is receiving continuing care for the condition.
• Do not use for the initial treatment of post-anesthesia hypothermia; a different seventh character would be appropriate for that scenario.