Find information on suicide diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding (ICD-10 codes S71.0 - S71.9, and DSM-5 criteria), risk assessment, and prevention resources for healthcare professionals. Learn about suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, completed suicide, and self-harm documentation best practices. Explore resources for mental health support and crisis intervention.
Also known as
Intentional self-harm
Covers suicide and attempted suicide by various methods.
Mental and behavioural disorders
Includes unspecified mental disorders that may be related to suicidal behavior.
Poisoning by drugs, medicaments
Relevant if suicide attempt involved drug overdose or poisoning.
Sequelae of intentional self-harm
Describes the late effects or health issues resulting from a prior suicide attempt.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the suicide attempt currently in progress?
Yes
Code X71.9 Suicide attempt by unspecified means
No
Did the suicide attempt result in injury/poisoning?
Coding suicide requires clear documentation of intent. Unspecified intent leads to coding errors and claim denials. Impacts quality reporting and reimbursement.
Accurate coding of underlying mental health conditions contributing to suicide is crucial. Missed diagnoses impact data analysis and resource allocation.
Proper external cause codes (e.g., method of suicide) are essential for injury prevention and public health surveillance. Inaccurate coding hinders analysis.
Patient presents with suicidal ideation, a serious mental health condition characterized by thoughts of ending one's life. Assessment reveals [Specify frequency, intensity, and duration of suicidal thoughts: e.g., passive suicidal thoughts several times a week, active suicidal ideation with plan and intent daily for the past month]. Risk factors identified include [List specific risk factors such as: recent major life stressors, history of trauma, previous suicide attempts, family history of suicide, mental health diagnoses like depression or bipolar disorder, substance abuse, access to lethal means, social isolation, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness]. Patient's chief complaint is [Document the patient's primary reason for seeking care, e.g., feelings of overwhelming sadness, loss of interest in activities, difficulty sleeping]. Mental status examination reveals [Describe patient's affect, mood, thought processes, and cognitive function]. The patient denies [Specify any denied symptoms such as: current suicidal plan, hallucinations, homicidal ideation]. Safety planning was initiated, including [Detail specific interventions: e.g., identification of coping mechanisms, removal of lethal means, involvement of family or support system, crisis hotline information]. Diagnosis: Suicidal Ideation (ICD-10: R45.88). Treatment plan includes [Outline treatment plan: e.g., referral to psychiatry, initiation of psychotherapy like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), consideration of pharmacotherapy with antidepressants or antipsychotics as clinically indicated, close monitoring, and follow-up appointments]. Patient education provided on suicide prevention, coping strategies, and medication management. The patient's prognosis is guarded, and ongoing assessment and support are crucial for managing suicidal behavior and improving overall mental well-being. This documentation supports medical necessity for services rendered and provides justification for billing codes used.