Toxic effect of venom of N & S American snake, assault, init

This code signifies a poisoning or adverse systemic reaction resulting from the venom of a snake native to North or South America, excluding rattlesnakes, coral snakes, and other specified types. The injury is specifically identified as an assault, meaning the snakebite was intentionally inflicted by another person.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment for a patient who has been intentionally bitten by a non-specified North or South American snake. This includes cases where the snake was used as a weapon or coerced to bite the victim. It is appropriate for the first encounter for this specific injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the snakebite was an intentional act (assault) and not accidental.
• Verify the snake species is a North or South American type, excluding those with more specific codes (e.g., rattlesnake).
• Confirm this is the patient's initial encounter for this specific injury; subsequent care would use a different encounter character.