Burn unsp deg of shldr/up lmb, ex wrs/hnd, unsp site, subs

This code signifies a burn injury to the shoulder or upper arm, excluding the wrist and hand, where the specific depth of the burn (first, second, or third degree) is not documented. The exact location on the shoulder or upper limb is also not specified. This code is used for encounters following the initial treatment of the burn.

Apply this code when a patient presents for follow-up care, wound checks, or ongoing management of a burn to the shoulder or upper limb (excluding wrist/hand) where the burn degree and precise site are not specified in the medical record. This is appropriate for subsequent visits after the initial assessment and treatment.

• Only use this code for subsequent encounters; an initial encounter would use the "A" seventh character.
• Avoid this code if the burn degree (e.g., first, second, third) or specific site (e.g., elbow, forearm) is documented.
• Always strive for more specific codes if the documentation allows, as "unspecified" codes should be used as a last resort.