Burn of second degree of right palm, initial encounter

This code signifies a partial-thickness burn affecting the right palm, characterized by blistering, pain, and redness, but without full-thickness skin destruction. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that this code is used for the first time a patient is receiving active treatment for this specific burn injury.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment of a patient presenting with a second-degree burn limited to the right palm. This includes scenarios such as emergency department visits, initial outpatient clinic assessments, or the first inpatient admission for this burn.

• Ensure the burn depth is explicitly documented as "second degree" or "partial thickness" and the location as the "right palm."
• Verify that this is indeed the first time the patient is being treated for this specific burn to justify the "initial encounter" character.
• Do not use this code for burns of other degrees, locations, or for subsequent encounters for the same burn.