Exposure to infrared radiation, initial encounter

This code identifies an injury or adverse health effect resulting from exposure to infrared radiation. This type of radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy, often perceived as heat, and can cause burns or other tissue damage depending on the intensity and duration of exposure.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment for conditions such as thermal burns, ocular damage (e.g., cataracts, retinal damage), or other adverse effects directly attributable to infrared radiation exposure. This includes incidents involving industrial heat lamps, certain lasers, or prolonged exposure to intense heat sources.

• Ensure documentation clearly links the patient's condition to infrared radiation exposure.
• Always assign an additional code for the specific injury or condition (e.g., T20-T25 for burns, H25 for senile cataract).
• Verify that the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this specific injury; subsequent care would require a different seventh character.