Pressure ulcer of unspecified site, stage 1

This code signifies the earliest stage of a pressure injury, characterized by non-blanchable erythema of intact skin, indicating potential damage. It represents a localized area of skin that remains red and does not turn white when pressed, but there is no open wound or skin breakdown. The specific anatomical location of the pressure ulcer is not documented or is unknown.

Use this code when documentation clearly identifies a Stage 1 pressure ulcer, but the exact anatomical site (e.g., sacrum, heel) is not specified by the clinician. This is appropriate for initial assessments or when the location is not yet determined. Documentation must explicitly state "Stage 1 pressure ulcer" and lack site specificity.

• Avoid using this code if the anatomical site of the Stage 1 pressure ulcer is documented; instead, use the more specific site code.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "Stage 1" and "pressure ulcer" (or "pressure injury").
• This code should be used cautiously as a primary diagnosis; often, a more specific site code is available and preferred.