In simple words: This code describes problems with a newborn's ability to keep their body temperature normal in the first 28 days of life. This could be due to their body not being fully developed, the environment, or other health issues.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies other specified disturbances of temperature regulation in a newborn.It encompasses conditions affecting the newborn's ability to maintain normal body temperature, excluding those specifically listed elsewhere in Chapter 16.These disturbances may stem from various factors including immature thermoregulation, environmental factors, or underlying medical conditions.The code should only be used for newborns within the first 28 days of life.

Example 1: A newborn presents with hypothermia (low body temperature) that is not attributable to specific causes listed in other P-codes., A newborn exhibits signs of hyperthermia (high body temperature) and requires intervention, but the underlying cause isn't explicitly defined by other codes in Chapter 16., A newborn shows temperature instability, fluctuating between hypothermia and hyperthermia, without clear etiology specified elsewhere in the chapter.

Detailed documentation is needed, specifying the newborn's temperature readings, any interventions used (e.g., warming or cooling measures), and the duration and severity of the thermoregulatory disturbance.The absence of more specific diagnoses should be clearly stated.

** Code P81.8 should only be used when no other more specific code in Chapter 16 applies to the newborn's condition.The code should not be used on the maternal record.Always ensure proper documentation supports the use of this code.