What does it indicate when a condition is coded as "impending"?

When a condition is coded as "impending," it signifies that the condition is likely to occur but has not yet fully manifested. This coding is used in clinical documentation to indicate that the healthcare provider anticipates the development of a specific condition based on current clinical evidence or risk factors.

For instance, if a patient is at high risk for developing a certain illness—due to factors like age, family history, or the presence of other health issues—the term "impending" would be appropriately used in the documentation. This allows healthcare providers to prepare for potential future treatment or monitoring, as it emphasizes the probability of the condition developing rather than confirming its current presence.

Thus, the correct interpretation aligns with the understanding that "impending" conveys the anticipation of an illness, making it essential for guiding proactive clinical management and patient care.