Contact with contaminated hypodermic needle, init encntr

This code signifies an injury resulting from direct contact with a hypodermic needle that is known or suspected to be contaminated with infectious material. It specifically captures the initial presentation and treatment of such an exposure.

Apply this code when a patient presents for evaluation and management following a needlestick injury where the needle was used on another individual or was otherwise considered biohazardous. This includes occupational exposures in healthcare settings or accidental community exposures.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific type of exposure (e.g., occupational exposure, accidental exposure).
• Code any resulting infection or sequelae separately, if diagnosed.
• Ensure the "A" for initial encounter is used only for the first time the patient is seen for this specific injury.