Assault by unspecified sharp object, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury resulting from an intentional act of violence where an unknown sharp instrument was used against the patient. The injury is acute and represents the first time the patient is receiving care for this specific incident.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an assault involving a sharp object, but the specific type of object (e.g., knife, broken glass, needle) is not identified. This is appropriate for the initial visit or active treatment phase following the assault.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "assault" and "sharp object" without further specification of the object.
• Confirm this is the initial encounter for this injury; subsequent encounters will require a different 7th character.
• Always sequence this external cause code after the primary injury code(s).