Toxic effect of venom of reptiles, self-harm, init

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse systemic effects resulting from the deliberate self-administration or exposure to venom from a reptile other than a Gila monster or snake. The toxic effects are due to the venom itself, not a bite or sting, and are the result of an intentional act to cause harm to oneself.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient intentionally exposed themselves to reptile venom (excluding snake or Gila monster venom) with the purpose of self-harm, and this is the initial presentation for treatment of these toxic effects. This would include scenarios such as injecting or ingesting venom from lizards, turtles, or other non-snake/non-Gila monster reptiles in a suicide attempt or self-mutilation.

• Always verify the intent was self-harm; otherwise, an accidental or assault code would be more appropriate.
• Confirm the reptile source is not a snake or Gila monster, as those have specific codes.
• Ensure this is the first encounter for the treatment of this specific toxic effect; subsequent care would use a different encounter character.