Occupational exposure to extreme temperature
ICD-10 Z57.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of occupational exposure to extreme temperature.
Z57.6 refers to occupational exposure to extreme temperatures, which can significantly impact health status and necessitate contact with health services. Workers in environments with extreme heat or cold are at risk for conditions such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, and frostbite. These conditions can lead to acute and chronic health issues, affecting productivity and quality of life. Social determinants of health, such as access to appropriate protective equipment, workplace safety regulations, and education on recognizing symptoms of temperature-related illnesses, play a crucial role in prevention. Preventive care includes regular health screenings for workers in high-risk occupations, education on hydration and temperature management, and workplace interventions to mitigate exposure risks. Aftercare may involve follow-up visits for those who have experienced temperature-related health issues, ensuring they receive appropriate treatment and support for recovery.
Documentation should include patient history of occupational exposure, symptoms experienced, and any preventive measures taken.
Routine checkups for workers in extreme environments, screenings for heat-related illnesses, and aftercare for patients recovering from exposure.
Consideration of social determinants such as access to hydration and cooling resources in the workplace.
Population-level data on occupational exposure, incidence of temperature-related illnesses, and effectiveness of preventive measures.
Epidemiological studies on heat waves and their impact on worker health, community health initiatives to educate workers.
Focus on tracking health outcomes related to occupational exposure and implementing community-wide preventive strategies.
Used for follow-up visits after exposure to extreme temperatures.
Document the patient's history of exposure and any symptoms experienced.
Primary care providers should focus on preventive education and symptom management.
Documentation should include the patient's occupational history, specific details of exposure to extreme temperatures, symptoms experienced, and any preventive measures taken. This ensures accurate coding and supports the necessity of care.
