Need for continuous supervision

This code indicates a patient's requirement for ongoing, direct oversight due to a physical, cognitive, or behavioral condition that places them or others at risk without such supervision. It signifies a dependency on another individual for safety and well-being, rather than for basic activities of daily living alone. This need is typically due to impaired judgment, mobility, or impulse control.

Use this code when documentation clearly states the patient requires constant monitoring to prevent harm, such as in cases of severe dementia with wandering, profound intellectual disability, or significant psychiatric conditions with a high risk of self-harm or aggression. It is appropriate when the supervision is a primary aspect of their care plan due to safety concerns.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "continuous supervision" or equivalent language indicating constant oversight for safety.
• Do not use this code for patients who only require assistance with ADLs or intermittent supervision.
• Always code this in conjunction with the underlying condition necessitating the supervision (e.g., dementia, intellectual disability).