F10.921

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A person uses alcohol and is currently intoxicated with delirium, experiencing confusion and altered mental status.

Coding Tips

• •Delirium must be documented as present during the intoxication episode
• •This is a more severe presentation than uncomplicated intoxication and may require higher level of care

Clinical Significance

This code captures alcohol unspecified use with intoxication delirium, documenting an acute episode of alcohol intoxication in a patient with an established pattern of alcohol unspecified use. Intoxication delirium represents a more severe presentation with altered consciousness and cognitive disturbance requiring urgent medical attention. Accurate coding of the use level (unspecified use) and intoxication status is critical for tracking substance use severity and ensuring appropriate risk adjustment.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of alcohol use — query the provider to specify abuse or dependence for more accurate coding when possible
• ✓Documentation of acute intoxication at the time of the encounter, with clinical findings (e.g., blood alcohol level, slurred speech, impaired coordination)
• ✓Documentation of delirium symptoms: acute onset of confusion, altered consciousness, disorientation, agitation, or perceptual disturbances during intoxication
• ✓Assessment and plan addressing alcohol use disorder with treatment recommendations (counseling, medication-assisted treatment, referral, etc.)

Commonly Confused Codes