Blister (nonthermal), unspecified hip, initial encounter

This code signifies a non-burn related fluid-filled lesion on the hip, where the specific side (left or right) is not documented. It indicates the initial presentation or active treatment phase of this condition.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a blister on the hip, and the medical record does not specify whether it's on the left or right side. This is appropriate for the first time the patient is seen for this particular blister, or during the period of active treatment.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "hip" and does not specify laterality.
• Confirm the blister is not due to a burn; otherwise, a thermal burn code would be more appropriate.
• Use this "A" initial encounter character only for the first time the patient is seen for this condition. Subsequent encounters would use "D" or "S."