Burn of first degree of left thumb (nail), sequela

This code signifies a healed or residual effect from a first-degree burn that previously affected the left thumb, specifically including the nail area. A first-degree burn involves only the outermost layer of skin, causing redness and mild pain, but typically no blistering. The "sequela" designation indicates that the acute burn has resolved, but there are lasting consequences or late effects.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting with a long-term issue directly attributable to a past first-degree burn on their left thumb, including the nail. This could include persistent discoloration, scarring, or nail deformity that developed after the initial burn healed. It is used when the original burn is no longer active and the focus of care is on the residual condition.

• Always assign a sequela code when the acute phase of the burn has passed and the patient is being treated for a residual condition.
• Do not use this code for an active, acute burn; instead, use the appropriate acute burn code.
• Consider if an external cause code (V00-Y99) is also necessary to describe the circumstances of the original burn, if known and relevant to the current encounter.