Abrasion of unspecified upper arm, initial encounter

This code signifies a superficial injury to the skin of the upper arm, characterized by scraping or rubbing off of the epidermis, without specifying which arm is affected. It indicates that this is the first time the patient is being treated for this particular injury.

Apply this code when documentation describes an abrasion on the upper arm, and the laterality (left or right) is not specified. This is appropriate for the initial visit or encounter for treatment of the abrasion.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "abrasion" and "upper arm" without specifying left or right.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment.
• If laterality is documented (e.g., left upper arm), a more specific code should be used.