Contact w oth sharp object, undetermined intent, init encntr

This code signifies an injury resulting from contact with an unspecified sharp object, where the circumstances surrounding the injury are unclear or cannot be determined as accidental, intentional self-harm, or assault. It indicates that the patient is presenting for the initial treatment of this specific injury.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an injury from a sharp object, but the provider cannot ascertain the intent (e.g., "patient found with laceration from unknown sharp object, denies knowledge of how it occurred"). This is appropriate for the initial visit for treatment of such an injury.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "undetermined intent" or provides insufficient information to classify intent.
• Do not use if intent (accidental, self-harm, assault) is clearly documented; instead, choose the appropriate intent code.
• The "A" seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment of the injury.