Assault by shotgun, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury sustained as a direct result of an intentional act of violence involving a shotgun. It specifically captures the initial presentation and treatment for the physical trauma inflicted by such an assault.

Apply this code when documenting the first medical encounter for a patient who has been shot by another individual using a shotgun. This includes emergency department visits, initial hospital admissions, or first outpatient clinic visits for the acute injury.

• Ensure the documentation clearly states the injury was due to an assault and a shotgun was the weapon.
• This "A" seventh character indicates the initial encounter for active treatment of the injury.
• Always code the specific injury (e.g., gunshot wound to the chest) first, followed by this external cause code.