Toxic effect of trichloroethylene, assault, init encntr

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse health effects resulting from exposure to trichloroethylene, specifically when the exposure was intentionally inflicted by another person. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that this is the first time the patient is receiving treatment for this particular toxic event.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment for a patient who has been poisoned by trichloroethylene due to an assault. This would include scenarios such as intentional chemical exposure in a domestic dispute or a deliberate act of harm involving the substance.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific manifestations of the trichloroethylene toxicity (e.g., neurological, hepatic, renal effects).
• Ensure documentation clearly supports the "assault" intent, as other intent codes (e.g., accidental, suicidal) exist for trichloroethylene toxicity.
• This "initial encounter" code is used as long as the patient is receiving active treatment for the acute effects of the poisoning.