Definitions for "Principal diagnosis"
The diagnosis established after study to be chiefly responsible for causing the patient's episode of care in hospital (or attendance at the healthcare facility). The phrase "after study" in the definition means evaluation of findings to establish the condition that was chiefly responsible for the episode of care. Findings evaluated may include information gained from the history of illness, any mental status evaluation, specialist consultations, physical examination, diagnostic tests or procedures, any surgical procedures, and any pathological or radiological examination. The condition established after study may or may not confirm the admitting diagnosis.
The condition that after study was found to be chiefly responsible for that patient's episode of care.
The medical condition that is the primary reason for a patient's admission to the hospital.