LOINCActiveObservation

LOINC Code 74204-9: Drug use [NTDS]

74204-9 is a LOINC code used to identify Drug use [NTDS] in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Drug use. It is commonly used with the system or sample type ^Patient.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 21 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Drug use. It is commonly used with the system or sample type ^Patient.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Observation
  • Method: NTDS

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

  • Drug use [NTDS]
  • Drug use
  • Use of drugs by patient as defined by the American College of Surgeon's National Trauma Data Standard (NTDS). Drug use may be documented at any facility (or setting) treating the patient for a given trauma event. "Illegal use drug" includes illegal use of prescription drugs.
  • [NTDS]; Drugs; Finding; Findings; Nominal; Point in time; Random; TRAUMA

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Drug use [NTDS]Drug useTRAUMAFindPt^PatientNom

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code74204-9
SystemLOINC
Display nameDrug use [NTDS]
DescriptionDrug use
Short nameDrug use [NTDS]
ComponentDrug use
PropertyFind
TimingPt
System (specimen)^Patient
ScaleNom
MethodNTDS
ClassTRAUMA
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationObservation

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released2.46
Last changed2.58

Part names

Drug useFindPt^PatientNomNTDSFindingPoint in time (spot)

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 74204-9 | HealthAssure