War operations involving friendly fire, initial encounter

This code signifies an injury or adverse health effect sustained during military conflict due to an attack by one's own forces or allied forces. It specifically indicates that this is the first time the patient is receiving active treatment for this particular injury.

Apply this code when documenting the initial medical care for a service member or civilian injured in a war zone by friendly fire. This includes situations where the injury is a direct result of misidentification, accidental discharge, or tactical errors by allied personnel.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the injury occurred during war operations and was caused by friendly forces.
• Verify that this is indeed the initial encounter for treatment of this specific injury; subsequent care would use a different encounter character.
• Always code the specific injury first, followed by this external cause code.