Poisoning by anthelminthics, assault, initial encounter

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse effects resulting from the intentional administration of an anthelmintic medication by another person with the intent to cause harm. The poisoning is acute, and the patient is receiving initial treatment for the toxic effects.

This code is appropriate for documenting cases where an individual has been deliberately poisoned with an anthelminthic drug, such as mebendazole or albendazole, by another party. It should be used during the initial phase of care, covering the period when the patient is actively being evaluated and treated for the acute toxic effects.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the poisoning was an assault and not accidental or self-inflicted.
• Always use in conjunction with external cause codes (e.g., Y07.-) to fully describe the circumstances of the assault.
• This "initial encounter" character (A) is used as long as the patient is receiving active treatment for the poisoning.