Unspecified open wound of unspecified hand, init encntr

This code signifies an open wound on the hand where the specific nature of the wound (e.g., laceration, puncture) is not documented, nor is the specific hand (left or right) identified. It indicates that the wound is new or is the initial treatment for this injury.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly states an open wound of the hand but lacks further detail regarding the wound type or laterality. It should be used for the initial encounter for treatment of this injury.

• Avoid using this code if more specific information about the wound type or hand laterality is available.
• Always query the provider for more specific details if the documentation is ambiguous.
• Ensure the "A" for initial encounter is appropriate; subsequent encounters will require different seventh characters.