MDS Alert

The correct answer lies in the clinical details.

DAVE 2 recently issued a tip sheet on coding IV fluids that included these two coding scenarios. Indicate whether you would code the IV fluids in each example.

Scenario No. 1. Resident Mary Jones is receiving an antibiotic in 100 cc of normal saline via IV piggyback. She has a UTI, fever, abnormal lab results, and documented inadequate fluid intake. She is placed on the nursing home's hydration plan to ensure adequate hydration.

Scenario No. 2: Resident Mary Jones is receiving an antibiotic in 100 cc of normal saline via IVP. She has a UTI, no fever, normal lab results and documented adequate fluid intake. There is no identified need for additional hydration noted.

Would you code the IV fluids at K5a? Yes/No.

Scenario No. 1: Documentation shows IVP fluids are being administered as part of the already identified need for additional hydration. Code K5a for Parenteral/IV fluids. Code the IV antibiotic medication itself at item P1ac.

Scenario No. 2: Do NOT code item K5a. There's no identified need for additional hydration noted. Code the IV antibiotic medication itself at item P1ac. Source: Provided courtesy of the CMS DAVE 2 project, Abt Associates.