How To Use CPT Code 36592

CPT 36592 describes the collection of a blood specimen using an established central or peripheral catheter, specifically for venous access. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 36592?

CPT 36592 can be used to describe the collection of a blood specimen from an established central or peripheral catheter. This code is specifically for venous access and is not otherwise specified by any other code. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with other services except a laboratory service.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 36592 is: ‘Collection of blood specimen using established central or peripheral catheter, venous, not otherwise specified.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure.
2. A liquid antiseptic is applied to the area where the catheter is inserted.
3. The provider inserts a core needle through the skin into the established central or peripheral catheter.
4. A small amount of blood is aspirated and discarded before drawing the blood sample to avoid contamination from the catheter.
5. The provider withdraws the blood sample using the needle and flushes the catheter with a heparin solution to prevent clot formation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 36592 is used when a blood specimen is collected from an established central or peripheral catheter for venous access. This code should not be used for blood collection from an established arterial catheter. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with other services except a laboratory service.

5. When to use CPT code 36592

CPT code 36592 should be used when a blood specimen is collected from an established central or peripheral catheter for venous access. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with other services except a laboratory service.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 36592, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s preparation for the procedure
• Use of a liquid antiseptic
• Date and time of the procedure
• Specific details of the blood collection process
• Use of a heparin solution to flush the catheter

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 36592, ensure that the blood specimen is collected from an established central or peripheral catheter for venous access. This code should not be reported in conjunction with other services except a laboratory service. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer for accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 36592 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2008. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider collects a blood specimen from an established central catheter for venous access.
2. A nurse draws a blood sample from an established peripheral catheter for venous access.
3. A medical technologist collects a blood specimen from an established central catheter in the superior vena cava.
4. A physician assistant withdraws a blood sample from an established peripheral catheter in the forearm.
5. A nurse practitioner collects a blood specimen from an established central catheter in the internal jugular vein.
6. A phlebotomist draws a blood sample from an established peripheral catheter in the hand.
7. A healthcare provider collects a blood specimen from an established central catheter in the femoral vein.
8. A medical technologist withdraws a blood sample from an established peripheral catheter in the arm.
9. A nurse collects a blood specimen from an established central catheter in the subclavian vein.
10. A physician assistant draws a blood sample from an established peripheral catheter in the wrist.