P07.34 Preterm newborn, gestational age 31 completed weeks

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Preterm Newborn, Gestational Age 31 Completed Weeks
- Preterm infant

#### Summary
A preterm newborn is a baby born before completing 37 weeks of gestation. At 31 completed weeks, the newborn is considered moderately preterm and often requires special medical attention due to immature development.

#### Causes
Preterm birth can be caused by a variety of factors, including multiple pregnancies, infections, chronic health conditions of the mother, and issues with the uterus, cervix, or placenta. Sometimes the cause of preterm birth is unknown.

#### Risk Factors
- Previous preterm birth
- Pregnancy with multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Uterine, cervical, or placental problems
- Maternal health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes
- Lifestyle factors, including smoking or substance use during pregnancy
- Extreme maternal age (under 17 or over 35)

#### Symptoms
Infants born at 31 weeks may exhibit:
- Low birth weight
- Breathing difficulties
- Less body fat and muscle tone
- Feeding challenges
- An underdeveloped immune system

#### Diagnosis
Preterm birth at 31 weeks is typically diagnosed based on gestational age calculations from the date of the last menstrual period, ultrasound assessments, and the baby's physical signs of development.

#### Treatment Options
- Special care in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
- Respiratory support such as CPAP or ventilators
- Intravenous fluids and nutrition
- Regulation of body temperature using incubators
- Medications for lung development and infections

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With medical advancements, many infants born at 31 weeks have a good chance of survival and catch up over time with their peers. Follow-up includes regular pediatric checkups to monitor growth and development and specialized therapies if needed.

#### Complications
- Breathing difficulties or respiratory distress syndrome
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (intestinal issues)
- Infections due to an immature immune system
- Long-term concerns such as developmental delays or vision and hearing problems

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular prenatal visits to monitor maternal health
- Avoidance of smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs during pregnancy
- Managing chronic health conditions and stress

#### When to Seek Professional Help
Pregnant individuals should contact their healthcare provider if experiencing signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, pelvic pressure, lower back pain, or vaginal bleeding before 37 weeks.

#### Additional Resources
- [March of Dimes](https://www.marchofdimes.org) - Support and information on preterm births
- [American Academy of Pediatrics](https://www.aap.org) - Resources for pediatric care

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure gestational age is accurately documented and coded as P07.34 for infants born exactly at 31 weeks.
- Verify documentation supports the gestational age and any additional neonatal complications that require coding.
- Be vigilant for potential changes in clinical care that might influence coding, such as interventions during hospitalization.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Preterm newborn, gestational age 31 completed weeks

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