Bitten by turtle, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury resulting from a turtle bite. The patient has sustained a wound, which may range from a minor abrasion to a more significant puncture or laceration, caused by the turtle's beak or jaws.

Apply this code when a patient presents for initial treatment of an injury directly caused by a turtle bite. This includes emergency department visits, urgent care, or a primary care physician's office for the initial assessment and management of the wound.

• Always assign an external cause code (e.g., Y92.-) to indicate the place of occurrence.
• Remember to also code the specific nature of the injury (e.g., S61.011A for laceration of finger).
• The "A" at the end signifies an initial encounter, meaning the patient is receiving active treatment for the injury.