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The CPT® Code 36406 refers to the procedure of venipuncture performed on patients younger than 3 years of age, which requires the expertise of a physician or another qualified healthcare professional. This code is specifically designated for situations where routine venipuncture is not applicable, emphasizing the need for specialized skills due to the anatomical and physiological considerations in infants and young children. Venipuncture is a critical procedure for obtaining blood samples, and in this age group, it is often performed at various sites, including the scalp, external jugular, femoral, saphenous, dorsal veins of the hand, or the dorsal arch of the foot. The procedure necessitates careful selection of the appropriate site, meticulous preparation to ensure sterile conditions, and the acquisition of informed consent from a parent or guardian prior to the procedure. The blood samples obtained through this method are essential for conducting laboratory studies that may be necessary for diagnosing and managing medical conditions in young patients.
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The procedure associated with CPT® Code 36406 is indicated for specific clinical situations involving infants and young children under the age of 3 years. The following conditions or circumstances may necessitate this venipuncture:
The procedure for CPT® Code 36406 involves several critical steps to ensure the safe and effective collection of blood samples from infants and young children. Each step is designed to minimize discomfort and risk while maximizing the quality of the blood sample obtained.
Post-procedure care for venipuncture performed under CPT® Code 36406 includes monitoring the puncture site for any signs of bleeding or infection. The healthcare provider may advise the parent or guardian to keep the area clean and dry, and to observe for any unusual swelling or redness. Additionally, they may provide guidance on when to seek further medical attention if complications arise. Recovery is generally quick, and most infants and young children can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, although some may experience minor discomfort at the site.
| Short Descr | VNPNXR<3YRS PHY/QHP OTHER VN | Medium Descr | VNPNXR <3 YEARS PHYS/QHP SKILL OTHER VEIN | Long Descr | Venipuncture, younger than age 3 years, necessitating the skill of a physician or other qualified health care professional, not to be used for routine venipuncture; other vein | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates | ASC Payment Indicator | Packaged service/item; no separate payment made. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule) | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 231 - Other therapeutic procedures |
| GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician |
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| 2025-01-01 | Changed | Short Description changed. |
| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Description Changed |
| 2007-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| 2004-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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