Toxic effect of unsp snake venom, accidental, init

This code signifies an adverse health effect resulting from accidental exposure to snake venom, where the specific type of snake is unknown. The patient is experiencing the initial symptoms and receiving active treatment for the poisoning.

Apply this code when a patient presents with signs and symptoms of snake envenomation, such as localized pain, swelling, systemic effects, or coagulopathy, and the encounter is for the initial treatment of this accidental poisoning. This is appropriate when the medical record does not specify the species of snake involved.

• Always assign an external cause code (e.g., X20.9XXA) in conjunction with this code to fully describe the circumstances of the poisoning.
• Do not use this code for intentional self-harm or assault; different codes apply for those scenarios.
• For subsequent encounters for the same poisoning, use the appropriate subsequent encounter (D) or sequela (S) seventh character.