Poisoning by saline and osmotic laxatives, undet, init

This code signifies an adverse event resulting from the ingestion of saline or osmotic laxatives where the intent (accidental, intentional self-harm, assault) cannot be determined. The patient is presenting for the initial treatment of the poisoning.

Apply this code when a patient presents with symptoms of poisoning due to saline or osmotic laxatives, and the medical record does not clearly document whether the exposure was accidental, intentional, or due to assault. This is for the first encounter related to this specific poisoning event.

• Always review the medical record for any indication of intent; if intent is documented, a more specific code should be used.
• Ensure the "A" seventh character is appropriate for the initial encounter for treatment of the poisoning.
• Do not use this code if the laxative was prescribed and taken correctly, but caused an adverse effect (e.g., an adverse effect code would be more appropriate).