Name of the Condition

• Adult Physical Abuse, Confirmed, Subsequent Encounter
• ICD-10 Code: T74.11XD

Summary

Adult Physical Abuse, Confirmed, Subsequent Encounter refers to cases where an adult patient is receiving continuous medical care or follow-up for injuries sustained due to confirmed physical abuse. This code is used during follow-up visits after the initial treatment of abuse-related injuries.

Causes

• Inflicted harm from another individual, intentionally causing injury.
• Perpetrators may include intimate partners, family members, caregivers, or others in a position of power or trust.

Risk Factors

• Living in environments with a history of violence or crime.
• Dependency on caregivers, especially for elderly or disabled adults.
• Relationship difficulties, financial stress, or substance abuse issues within the household.

Symptoms

• Physical injuries such as bruises, cuts, fractures, or burns.
• Psychological symptoms may include anxiety, depression, or fear of the abuser.
• Signs of neglect or malnutrition.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess the extent of injuries.
• Interviews or assessments to understand the context and risk factors of abuse.
• Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRIs) if internal injuries are suspected.

Treatment Options

• Medical treatment for physical injuries (e.g., wound care, surgery).
• Psychological counseling or therapy to address emotional trauma.
• Social services intervention for protection and safety planning.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With appropriate intervention, many survivors can recover physically and emotionally.
• Regular follow-up is crucial to address ongoing safety, emotional well-being, and to prevent recurrence.
• Engaging community or legal resources can improve long-term outcomes.

Complications

• Chronic pain or disability if injuries are severe or recurrent.
• Long-term psychological effects, including PTSD or chronic anxiety.
• Increased risk of future abuse without proper intervention.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Encouraging open conversations about domestic violence and access to support systems.
• Education on recognizing signs of abuse and how to safely intervene or seek help.
• Developing safety plans and understanding legal rights for protection.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent or worsening injuries.
• Any indication that the person is in an unsafe environment.
• Signs of severe emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.

Additional Resources

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Local domestic violence shelters or organizations.
• Medical professionals specializing in abuse and trauma care.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the distinction between initial and subsequent encounters for clarity in patient care continuity.
• Match clinical documentation carefully with the appropriate ICD code, noting the confirmed nature of abuse.
• Avoid coding errors by differentiating between physical and psychological abuse codes.