Bather struck by powered watercraft, subsequent encounter

This code describes an injury sustained by an individual who was in the water (e.g., swimming, wading) and was hit by a motorized water vessel. The "subsequent encounter" indicates that this code is used for follow-up care after the initial treatment for the injury.

Apply this code when a patient presents for ongoing management, such as wound care, physical therapy, or follow-up examinations, related to injuries sustained from being struck by a powered watercraft while bathing or swimming. This code is appropriate after the acute phase of injury has passed.

• Always pair this external cause code with an injury code describing the specific nature of the patient's trauma.
• Ensure the documentation clearly indicates the patient was in the water and struck by a powered watercraft.
• Verify that the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial treatment, to correctly apply the "D" seventh character.