ICD-10 Code J96.2 – Acute and chronic respiratory failure (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J96.2 – Acute and chronic respiratory failure
What it is
J96.2 identifies respiratory failure that has both an acute episode and an underlying chronic component. Use it when documentation shows the patient has chronic respiratory failure with a new or worsening acute failure.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, patients have evidence of inadequate gas exchange, with worsening shortness of breath, hypoxemia, or need for ventilatory support noted by the clinician.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents both acute and chronic respiratory failure in the same encounter. It may also apply when acute decompensation is superimposed on longstanding respiratory failure, such as in chronic lung disease. Check documentation for the exact type and acuity.
Do not use for
Do not use J96.2 for respiratory distress, hypoxemia alone, or chronic respiratory failure without an acute component. If the record is unclear, do not assume the combination diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code the documented acuity exactly, and query the provider if the record does not clearly state both acute and chronic respiratory failure.