Burn of second degree of left ankle, initial encounter

This diagnosis code signifies a partial-thickness burn affecting the left ankle. It indicates damage to both the epidermis and a portion of the dermis, typically presenting with blistering, significant pain, and redness. This code is specifically for the initial treatment phase of such an injury.

Apply this code when documenting a patient's first presentation for a second-degree burn on their left ankle. This includes emergency department visits, initial clinic consultations, or hospital admissions for the acute management of the burn. It is used when the patient is receiving active treatment for the injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "left ankle" and "second degree" to support this code.
• Verify that the encounter is indeed the "initial encounter" for this specific burn injury.
• Do not use this code for superficial burns (first degree) or full-thickness burns (third degree) of the left ankle.