Assault by unspecified explosive, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury resulting from an intentional act of violence involving an explosive device, where the specific type of explosive is not documented. The patient is in the initial phase of receiving active treatment for this injury.

This code is appropriate for emergency department visits or initial hospital admissions following an assault where an explosive was used, but the specific nature of the explosive (e.g., bomb, grenade, dynamite) is unknown or not specified in the medical record. It applies when the patient is first presenting for care related to the incident.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "assault" and "explosive" without further specificity of the explosive type.
• Confirm the encounter is for the initial treatment of the injury.
• Always code external cause codes in conjunction with an injury code.