Pressure ulcer of left ankle, stage 1

This code signifies the earliest stage of skin and tissue damage due to sustained pressure on the left ankle. It presents as non-blanchable erythema of intact skin, indicating a localized area of persistent redness that does not turn white when pressed. This stage reflects a reversible injury if pressure is relieved.

Apply this code when documentation clearly identifies a pressure ulcer on the patient's left ankle that exhibits only non-blanchable erythema with intact skin. The physician's assessment or wound care nurse's notes should explicitly state "stage 1" and specify the left ankle as the location.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "stage 1" and "left ankle." Do not assume the stage based solely on the description of non-blanchable erythema.
• Differentiate from other skin conditions like cellulitis or dermatitis; a pressure ulcer must be attributed to pressure.
• This code is for intact skin; if there is any break in the skin, a higher stage pressure ulcer code would be appropriate.