5. Acute Upper Respiratory Infection (URI). Frequently this diagnosis is written :
Acute Respiratory Disease or simply ARD.
EXAMPLES:
a. DIAGNOSIS: ARD Viral
465.9
b. DIAGNOSIS: Acute Upper Respiratory Infection URI
465.9
PRINCIPLE II. MULTIPLE CODING
1. Multiple coding as used throughout these coding guidelines is defined as the
assignment of more than one code to fully identify all the component parts of a
diagnostic/procedure statement. In the diagnostic classification multiple coding was
developed to increase specificity by identifying associated conditions or those which
have a cause and effect relationship. Some instances where multiple coding will be
used are late effects (cause of) with residuals, etiology (underlying cause) with
manifestations and/or complications, adverse effects of medications with drugs (E
Codes), and pregnancy related complications (see principle IX). In the procedure,
classification multiple coding was developed to identify any additional components of a
procedure (if performed) and to identify any synchronous (performed at the same time)
procedures.
WHEN MULTIPLE CODING IS USED
a. Written Instructions:
(1) Code also . . . .
(a) Further instruction in the Tabular List, Volume 1, to code the underlying
cause (etiology) is indicated by "Code also..." It is an instruction to code "first";
therefore, the etiology code is sequenced first. Italicized codes in slanted brackets are
used to identify the manifestations.
(b) Multiple coding of procedures is indicated by the term "Code also..." to
identify adjunct or synchronous procedures done, i.e., those performed or occurring at
the same time. "Code also" has a different significance in procedure coding from that in
diagnostic coding; there is no implication of sequencing or mandatory multiple coding
attached to it.
(2) Use additional code . . . .The user should add further information to give a
more complete description of the diagnosis or procedure.
(3) Note . . . .Some main terms are followed by notes that define terms and give
coding instructions.
MD0753
A-3