For a hospital encounter involving COPD and acute respiratory failure, which is the correct reporting approach?

For a hospital encounter involving COPD and acute respiratory failure, which is the correct reporting approach?

• A. Code COPD first, then acute respiratory failure
• B. Code acute respiratory failure only
• C. Code COPD only
• D. Code both COPD and acute respiratory failure; sequence is determined by the principal reason for admission and documentation; both conditions are reported

Answer: (D)