American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Practice Exam

What is the ICD-9-CM code for diaper rash in an elderly patient?

1. 690.10

2. 691.0

3. 782.1

4. 705.1

The correct answer is: 691.0

The appropriate ICD-9-CM code for diaper rash in an elderly patient is 688.10, which specifically addresses dermatitis due to incontinence. This classification is used for rash provoked by exposure to moisture, urine, and feces, and this condition commonly arises in elderly patients who may have mobility issues or incontinence. Focusing on the other options, the code 690.10 relates to acute contact dermatitis due to irritants, not specifically associated with incontinence. The code 691.0 pertains to allergic contact dermatitis, which also does not align with the context of a diaper rash. The code 782.1 refers to rashes and eruptions that do not imply a direct connection to incontinence. Lastly, the code 705.1 specifically addresses intertrigo dermatitis, which is a type of rash typically seen in skin folds but does not adequately describe the scenario of diaper rash resulting from incontinence. Therefore, recognizing that the right code accurately captures the nuances associated with skin conditions due to specific irritants like urine or feces is essential for accurate coding in clinical documentation.