L89.022

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A stage 2 pressure ulcer on the left elbow characterized by partial thickness skin loss involving the epidermis and/or dermis, appearing as a blister or shallow open wound.

Coding Tips

• •Stage 2 ulcers show partial-thickness skin loss; document whether there is exudate, surrounding erythema, or signs of infection
• •Differentiate from stage 1 by confirming the presence of skin breakdown rather than just discoloration

Clinical Significance

A stage 2 pressure ulcer of the left elbow represents Stage 2 pressure ulcers involve partial-thickness loss of dermis presenting as a shallow open ulcer with a red-pink wound bed, or an intact or open/ruptured serum-filled blister. Stage 2 does not include skin tears, tape burns, moisture-associated skin damage, or maceration. Pressure ulcers are significant indicators of patient frailty, immobility, and care complexity, requiring ongoing wound management and interdisciplinary care. Accurate staging and site documentation are essential for risk adjustment and quality reporting.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Provider documentation of stage 2 pressure ulcer at the specific anatomic site
• ✓Description confirming partial-thickness skin loss
• ✓Wound bed description (red-pink, no slough or granulation tissue)
• ✓Wound measurements (length, width)
• ✓Current wound care treatment plan and any dressings used
• ✓Evidence the wound was evaluated during the encounter

Commonly Confused Codes