[Diagnostic coding for pediatric emergency activity].
OBJECTIVE
To design an diagnosis coding system for pediatric emergency activity.


METHODS
The International Classification of Diseases (9th revision) Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) was adjusted to special characteristics of pediatric emergency activity. The most frequent pediatric emergency diagnoses, emergency complaints and procedures were chosen by nine pediatric emergency physician an one coding expert physician. Code and diagnosis description were adapted following the ICD-9-CM coding rules. Diagnosis definitions were the agreement result among group membership.


RESULTS
The codes and descriptions of 181 diagnosis, 64 emergency complaints and 41 procedures were adjusted to pediatric emergency activity.


CONCLUSIONS
This coding system may increase coding use in pediatric emergency units. Coding is a useful and valuable index quality and a good tool to share information.
D002648:Child; D003933:Diagnosis; D004630:Emergencies / Q000145:classification*; D006801:Humans