Poisoning by salicylates, intentional self-harm, init encntr

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse effects from an overdose of salicylate-containing medications, such as aspirin, where the overdose was deliberately self-inflicted. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that this is the first time the patient is receiving treatment for this specific poisoning event.

Apply this code when documenting cases of intentional salicylate poisoning, often seen in suicide attempts or gestures. This would be appropriate for the initial hospital admission or emergency department visit where the patient is first evaluated and managed for the acute toxic effects.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific adverse effect(s) of the poisoning (e.g., metabolic acidosis, tinnitus).
• Do not use this code for accidental ingestions or therapeutic misadventures; those require different intent codes.
• Ensure documentation clearly supports intentional self-harm and that this is the first encounter for this specific poisoning episode.