Q&A: Examples of Bedside Procedures

Q: How are bedside procedures defined and what is an example of these procedures?

A: A bedside procedure is a procedure that is performed at the patient’s bedside. It really is that simple.

Some of the most common examples of bedside procedures are:

• Thoracentesis
• Paracentesis
• Lumbar puncture
• Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line insertion
• Insertion of a urinary catheter
• Cardioversion
• Incision and drainage procedures
• Negative pressure wound therapy
• Central line insertion and declotting procedures
• Pleurodesis
• Arthrocentesis and joint injections
• Echocardiograms
• Biopsies (e.g., bone marrow biopsy)
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
• Chest tube insertion
• Endotracheal intubation
• Blood transfusions
• Drug administration services

For more information, refer to the Billing for Ancillary Bedside Procedures Training Handbook.

Need expert advice?
Email your questions for consideration in the Revenue Cycle Daily Advisor. Note: We do not guarantee that all questions will be answered.