Sepsis, SIRS and Septic Shock at a Glance (ICD-10-CM Cheat Sheet)

A two-page quick reference for coding sepsis in ICD-10-CM. Work down one flowchart from "urosepsis" and bacteremia to severe sepsis and septic shock, then check the sequencing rules on page 2.

WHAT'S INSIDE

• Page 1: sepsis vs. bacteremia vs. a localized infection, a 7-step decision flow (urosepsis, positive cultures, SIRS from a noninfectious process, sepsis by organism and when to use A41.9, severe sepsis with R65.20, septic shock with R65.21), and the R65.2- organ dysfunction list
• Page 2: which code goes first when sepsis is present on admission or develops later, sepsis with a localized infection, sepsis after a procedure (T81.44 and T81.12), noninfectious processes, pointers for pregnancy, newborns, and HIV, and 5 worked examples
• Every rule is tagged with its Official Guidelines section, so you can find it fast in your book

FILE FORMAT

• One PDF, US Letter (8.5 x 11 inches), 2 pages. Print it or keep it open on your screen.

HOW IT WORKS

Your download link appears right after payment and is emailed to you.

GOOD TO KNOW

• Based on the FY2027 ICD-10-CM code set and Official Guidelines (in effect October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027). Codes change every October, so check the current year.
• This guide covers ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding only. It has no CPT procedure codes.
• It explains coding rules, not clinical criteria. It doesn't teach Sepsis-3 or how to diagnose sepsis.
• Educational reference, not legal or billing advice. Payers and facilities can add their own rules.
• AAPC doesn't allow extra notes or printouts in exam code books, so this is a study aid and work reference, not an exam aid.
• Not affiliated with or endorsed by CMS, NCHS, AHA, AAPC, or AHIMA.
• Digital items generally can't be returned. If a file is missing, damaged, or different from this listing, email thedenialdesk@gmail.com and I'll help sort it out.
• Drafted with help from AI tools, then reviewed and fact-checked by a certified medical coding professional.

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