Assault by hot fluids, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury resulting from an intentional act of violence where a person is harmed by hot liquids or steam. The injury is typically a burn, scald, or other tissue damage caused by the high temperature of the fluid. This code specifically identifies the initial presentation and treatment of such an assault.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with burns or scalds sustained from hot fluids, and the medical record clearly indicates the injury was inflicted by another individual with intent to harm. This includes scenarios like a domestic dispute where hot water was thrown, or an attack involving a hot beverage. It is used for the initial encounter for treatment of the injury.

• Always sequence this external cause code after the primary burn or injury code(s).
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states the injury was an "assault" or "intentional" act involving hot fluids.
• Confirm the encounter is for the initial treatment of the injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.