Intentional self-harm by handgun discharge, init encntr

This code signifies a patient presenting with injuries resulting from purposefully inflicting harm upon themselves using a handgun. It specifically indicates that this is the first time the patient is receiving medical attention for this particular self-harm event.

Apply this code when documenting the initial treatment for a patient who has sustained injuries from a self-inflicted gunshot wound from a handgun. This would include emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or the first outpatient encounter for this specific incident.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the intent was self-harm and the weapon was a handgun.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter for treatment of these injuries; subsequent care would use a different seventh character.
• Always code any associated injuries (e.g., specific organ damage, fractures) in addition to this external cause code.