Abrasion of unspecified forearm, initial encounter

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

This code is appropriate for documenting a patient presenting with a minor skin abrasion on their forearm where the specific side (left or right) is not documented or is unknown. It is used for the initial visit or encounter for this injury, such as in an emergency department or urgent care setting.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "abrasion" and not a deeper wound like a laceration.
• Only use this code when the laterality (left/right) of the forearm is unspecified in the clinical record.
• The "A" suffix indicates an initial encounter; subsequent care for this same injury will require a different seventh character.