Assault by other firearm discharge, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury sustained as a result of an intentional act of violence involving a firearm other than a handgun, rifle, or shotgun. The injury is directly attributable to the discharge of such a weapon by another individual. This code is specifically for the initial treatment of the injury.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient has been injured by an assault involving a firearm not classified as a handgun, rifle, or shotgun (e.g., a homemade firearm, an antique firearm, or a less common type of firearm). This code is appropriate for the first encounter for treatment of the injury.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "assault" and identifies the weapon as a firearm, but not a handgun, rifle, or shotgun.
• Verify that this is the initial encounter for the injury; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.
• Always code the specific nature of the injury (e.g., gunshot wound, fracture) first, followed by this external cause code.