DVT vs. Pulmonary Embolism Coding

Description

DVT vs. Pulmonary Embolism as Principal Diagnosis is an online, self-paced course for inpatient, outpatient, and professional fee coders who assign ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes for venous thromboembolic conditions. This course focuses on the common coding challenge of determining the correct principal diagnosis when both deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are documented. Coders will review the clinical presentation, risk factors, symptoms, complications, and diagnostic methods for DVT and PE, then apply official coding guidelines through real-world case scenarios. The course includes 1 AHIMA CEU and helps coders confidently select the principal diagnosis in complex DVT and PE cases.

Included Lessons:

What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
What is Pulmonary Embolism (PE)?
The Dilemma
What Should The Coder Look For To Determine Principal Diagnosis?
DVT vs Pulmonary Embolism Example 1
DVT vs Pulmonary Embolism Example 2
Coding Information and Coding Clinics Pertaining DVT and Pulmonary Embolism

Key Takeaways

Overall, completing this course equips medical coders with the expertise and confidence needed to accurately code and sequence DVT and PE cases, ensuring proper documentation and reimbursement in a healthcare setting. Some key takeaways include:

In-Depth Knowledge of DVT and PE: Participants will have a thorough understanding of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), including their causes, risk factors, symptoms, and complications.
Diagnostic Methods: Coders will be well-versed in the various diagnostic methods used for DVT and PE, such as duplex ultrasonography, D-dimer blood tests, contrast venography, and imaging tests like MRI and CT scans.
Treatment Options: The course covers the different treatment options for DVT and PE, including medication, compression stockings, thrombolytics, and surgical procedures like thrombectomy and embolectomy.
Coding Skills: Participants will gain proficiency in assigning accurate ICD-10-CM codes for DVT and PE cases, taking into account the specific clinical details and circumstances of admission.
Principal Diagnosis Selection: Coders will learn the intricacies of determining the principal diagnosis when both DVT and PE are present, considering factors like the reason for admission, clinical indicators, treatments, and coding guidelines.
DRG Impact: Participants will understand how the selection of the principal diagnosis affects Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) assignment and the associated reimbursement rates.
Clinical Decision-Making: The course emphasizes the importance of clinical decision-making in coding, where coders must analyze patient records to identify the diagnosis that best reflects the patient's condition and the purpose of the admission.
Practical Application: Through case scenarios and real-life examples, coders will gain practical experience in applying their knowledge to code DVT and PE cases accurately.

What will I learn about selecting the principal diagnosis when both DVT and pulmonary embolism are documented?

This course explains how to determine the correct principal diagnosis when deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are both present during an encounter. You’ll learn how ICD-10-CM guidelines and the circumstances of admission drive principal diagnosis selection so the reported codes accurately reflect the reason for care.

How does the course help coders apply sequencing rules for DVT and pulmonary embolism cases?

The course walks through sequencing guidance for venous thromboembolism scenarios, including when DVT is the underlying condition and when pulmonary embolism should be reported first. You’ll review clinical scenarios that show how timing, acuity, and provider documentation affect sequencing decisions.

Will this course improve my ability to identify documentation details needed for accurate principal diagnosis assignment?

Yes. The course highlights the documentation elements coders must evaluate, such as presenting symptoms, diagnostic findings, treatment focus, and provider assessment of acuity. You’ll learn how to interpret documentation clearly and recognize when clarification may be needed to support compliant principal diagnosis selection.

About Our Medical Coding Courses

HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a flexible, online education platform designed for today’s coders. With a growing catalog of AHIMA and AAPC-approved coding courses, HIAlearn supports both beginners and experienced coders looking to build confidence, accuracy, and CEU credits.

Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS, and are designed for multiple specialties including inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI.

To stay up to date, coders can explore our Coding Updates hub for the latest ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS changes. HIAlearn also supports organizations with group discounts and scalable team access, promoting accuracy, compliance, and continuous professional development across departments.