Poisoning by methadone, intentional self-harm, init encntr

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse effects resulting from the deliberate self-administration of methadone with the intent to cause harm. The patient is in the initial phase of receiving active treatment for this poisoning event.

Apply this code when documenting an overdose of methadone where the patient explicitly states or clinical evidence strongly suggests suicidal intent. This is appropriate for the emergency department visit or initial inpatient admission for managing the acute toxic effects.

• Ensure documentation clearly supports intentional self-harm, not accidental or therapeutic misadventure.
• Always assign an additional code for the specific manifestation of the poisoning (e.g., coma, respiratory depression).
• This "initial encounter" code is only used for the period when the patient is receiving active treatment for the poisoning.