Wiki Poison ingestion

[16500]

What is the best way to code ingestion of radiator fluid? I found an E code, but can't seem to find a primary dx.

 

[Tracey Parsons]

poisoning with radiator fluid

First, look for a code in the 980.0 - 989.9 range. From ICD-9 guidelines. "When a harmful substance is ingested or comes in contact with a person, this is classified as a toxic effect (980-989)". "A toxic effect code should be sequenced first, folowed by the code(s) that identify the result of the toxic effect." Meaning the symptoms/conditions you are treating. Then your E code(s) is listed last.

So first a code from 980-989, then the condition/disease/diagnosis code based on what is wrong with the individual. Then your E codes.