Burn of second degree of unspecified forearm, init encntr

This code signifies a partial-thickness burn affecting an unspecified forearm, characterized by blistering, significant pain, and often swelling. The burn involves the epidermis and dermis, but not the underlying tissue. This specific code is for the initial treatment of the injury.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting for the first time with a second-degree burn to either the left or right forearm, and the specific side is not documented. This is appropriate for acute care settings such as emergency departments or initial clinic visits for burn assessment and treatment.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "second degree" and "forearm" without specifying left or right.
• Confirm this is the patient's first encounter for this specific burn injury. Subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Always code the highest degree of burn when multiple degrees are present at the same site.