2025 ICD-10-CM code W34.09

Accidental discharge from other specified firearms.

This code should be used as a secondary code to a code describing the nature of the injury (e.g., burns, open wounds, fractures). It should not be used for intentional self-harm, assault, or injuries related to military operations. Use additional code(s) from Chapter 19, Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T88) to identify the injury.

Use 7th character to indicate the type of encounter: initial encounter, subsequent encounter, or sequela.

Medical necessity is established by the need to treat the injuries resulting from the accidental discharge of the firearm. This code helps provide context to the mechanism of injury.

It is the clinician's responsibility to accurately document the circumstances surrounding the accidental discharge, specifying the type of firearm involved if known.This code describes the circumstance causing an injury, not the nature of the injury.A corresponding code for the injury itself should also be documented.

In simple words: An accidental injury caused by the discharge of a firearm not otherwise specified, such as a flare gun.

Accidental discharge from other specified firearms, such as a flare gun.

Example 1: A patient presents to the ED with a burn injury to their hand. They report accidentally discharging a flare gun while camping., A patient is brought to the hospital by EMS after being struck in the leg by a projectile.Investigation reveals the projectile came from an accidentally discharged antique firearm at a historical reenactment., A hunter presents to their physician with a minor injury to their foot.While hunting they tripped and fell causing their antique black powder rifle to discharge into the ground near their foot. Luckily their thick hunting boots prevented any serious injury. 

Documentation should clearly state the circumstances of the accident, the type of firearm involved, and the resulting injuries.Details such as the location of the incident, activity of the patient at the time of the incident, and any contributing factors should also be included.

** ICD-10-CM code W34.09 is distinct from other codes within the W34 category, such as W34.00 (Accidental discharge from other and unspecified firearm, unspecified firearm) and W34.01 (Accidental discharge from handgun).

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