2025 ICD-10-CM code W34
(Active) Effective Date: N/A External causes of morbidity - Exposure to inanimate mechanical forces (W20-W49) 20 Feed
Accidental discharge and malfunction from other and unspecified firearms and guns.
The 7th character of the code should indicate the type of encounter (initial, subsequent, sequelae).
Medical necessity for this code relates to injuries resulting from accidental discharge or malfunction from other and unspecified firearms and guns. Documentation must support the cause of injury, and the intent must be unintentional.
In simple words: This code describes an accidental injury resulting from the discharge or malfunction of a firearm or gun, excluding those used in military or war operations.
Accidental discharge and malfunction from other and unspecified firearms and guns.
Example 1: A patient accidentally discharges their hunting rifle while cleaning it, resulting in a foot injury., A child finds an improperly stored handgun and accidentally shoots themselves in the hand., An antique firearm malfunctions during a historical reenactment, causing an injury to the user's shoulder.
Documentation should include the type of firearm involved, the nature of the malfunction or accidental discharge, the specific body part or region injured, and the extent of the injury.
** This code is for accidental injuries, not intentional harm.There is no national requirement for reporting external cause codes unless mandated by the state or payer. However, voluntary reporting is encouraged for injury research and prevention.
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Trauma Surgery, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Home, Office, Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital