How To Use CPT Code 90281

CPT 90281 describes the administration of intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) for passive immunity. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 90281?

CPT 90281 is used to describe the administration of intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) for passive immunity. This code is used when a healthcare professional administers the immunoglobulin injection slowly into the muscle using an appropriately sized needle.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 90281 is: ‘Immune globulin (Ig), human, for intramuscular use.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare professional inspects the injection site.
2. An intramuscular immunoglobulin injection is administered slowly using an appropriately sized needle.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 90281 is used when a patient requires intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) for passive immunity. This may be necessary for individuals who have a weakened immune system or are at risk of certain infections. The administration of the immunoglobulin should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 90281

CPT code 90281 should be used when a healthcare professional administers intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) for passive immunity. It is important to ensure that the administration is done correctly and safely, following the appropriate guidelines and protocols.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 90281, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical condition or indication for intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) administration
• Date and time of the injection
• Details of the injection site inspection
• Method and technique used for the administration
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 90281, ensure that the administration of intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) is performed by a qualified healthcare professional. Follow the appropriate guidelines for reporting this code and any associated modifiers. It is important to review the specific billing requirements of the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 90281 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1999. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A nurse administering intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a weakened immune system.
2. A physician injecting intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient at risk of a specific infection.
3. A healthcare professional administering intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient undergoing a medical procedure that may compromise their immune system.
4. A pharmacist providing intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a known immunodeficiency disorder.
5. A healthcare professional administering intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient as part of a preventive measure.
6. A nurse injecting intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a history of recurrent infections.
7. A physician administering intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a specific medical condition that requires passive immunity.
8. A healthcare professional providing intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient before a planned surgery.
9. A pharmacist administering intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a known exposure to a certain infection.
10. A nurse injecting intramuscular immunoglobulin (Ig) to a patient with a compromised immune system due to a medical treatment.