Assault by other larger firearm discharge, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury sustained from an assault involving a larger firearm, such as a rifle or shotgun, where the patient is in the initial phase of treatment. It indicates that the injury was intentionally inflicted by another person using a weapon with significant caliber or projectile size.

Apply this code when documenting a patient presenting for initial evaluation and treatment of injuries directly resulting from being shot by another individual with a larger firearm. This includes emergency room visits, initial hospital admissions, or first outpatient encounters for such an injury.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies the injury was due to an assault and involved a larger firearm.
• This "initial encounter" character (A) is used for the entire period the patient is receiving active treatment for the injury.
• Always code the specific injury (e.g., gunshot wound to the chest) first, followed by this external cause code.