Poisoning by unsp agents aff the GI sys, assault, init

This code signifies a case where an individual has been intentionally poisoned by an unknown substance that primarily causes symptoms related to the digestive system. The poisoning was a result of an assault, meaning it was inflicted by another person with malicious intent. The "initial encounter" indicates that this code is used for the first time the patient is receiving care for this specific poisoning event.

Use this code when a patient presents with gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain) due to an ingested or absorbed toxic substance, and the patient or a reliable source confirms the poisoning was an act of assault. This code is appropriate when the specific toxic agent cannot be identified at the time of the initial encounter.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the poisoning was an assault and the primary symptoms are GI-related.
• Only use "initial encounter" for the first time the patient is seen for this condition; subsequent encounters will use different seventh characters.
• Avoid this code if the specific toxic agent is known; instead, code to the specific substance.