Toxic effect of formaldehyde, assault, initial encounter

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse health effects resulting from exposure to formaldehyde, where the exposure was intentionally inflicted by another person. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for the acute toxic effects of this assault.

This code is appropriate for documenting cases where a patient has been deliberately exposed to formaldehyde by another individual, leading to symptoms such as respiratory distress, skin irritation, or systemic toxicity. It is used during the period when the patient is actively being evaluated and treated for these acute effects.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the exposure was an intentional act by another party.
• Confirm the patient is in the acute phase of treatment for the formaldehyde toxicity.
• Do not use for accidental or self-harm exposures; specific codes exist for those circumstances.