Submersion (drowning), undetermined whether accidentally or purposely inflicted

This code signifies a death or injury resulting from submersion in a liquid, where the intent behind the event cannot be definitively determined as either accidental or intentional self-harm. It indicates that the circumstances surrounding the drowning are ambiguous, lacking clear evidence to classify it as purely accidental or a suicide attempt.

This code is appropriate when a patient has suffered a drowning event, and the medical record, including autopsy reports or investigative findings, does not provide conclusive evidence to differentiate between an accidental drowning and an intentional act. It is used when the intent remains "undetermined" after thorough investigation.

• Only assign this code when the intent of submersion is explicitly documented as "undetermined" or "unspecified."
• Do not use this code if there is clear documentation of accidental drowning (e.g., fall into water) or intentional self-harm (e.g., suicide note).
• Always sequence this as a primary diagnosis when it is the cause of injury or death.