Toxic effect of venom of oth reptiles, assault, init encntr

This code signifies a harmful reaction resulting from exposure to venom from a reptile other than a Gila monster or snake, where the exposure was intentionally inflicted by another person. The patient is in the acute phase of treatment for this toxic effect.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with symptoms of envenomation from an unspecified reptile, and medical records clearly indicate the exposure was due to an assault. This is appropriate for the initial visit or encounter where the patient is actively receiving treatment for the toxic effects.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "assault" as the intent of the venom exposure.
• Verify the reptile involved is not a snake or Gila monster; otherwise, a more specific code may be appropriate.
• Use this code only for the initial encounter; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.