2025 ICD-10-CM code W90

Exposure to other nonionizing radiation

The external cause codes, including W90, are used as secondary codes to provide additional information about injuries and other health conditions. They should never be sequenced as the primary diagnosis. It is important to use the full range of external cause codes to accurately describe the cause, intent (if applicable), place of occurrence, and the patient's activity during the event. When documenting multiple injuries caused by different reasons, prioritize the external cause codes in this order: child and adult abuse, terrorism, cataclysmic events, and finally, transport accidents.

The 7th character of the ICD-10-CM code should be used to indicate the encounter type: initial encounter (A), subsequent encounter (D), or sequela (S).

Medical necessity for the use of this code hinges on a direct causal relationship between the exposure to non-ionizing radiation and the patient's condition. Any treatments or diagnostic tests performed must be justifiable as necessary interventions related to the effects of the exposure.

The clinical responsibility for this code lies in accurately documenting the circumstances of the exposure to non-ionizing radiation. This includes identifying the source of radiation, the duration of exposure, and any associated symptoms or injuries. Clinicians should also consider any long-term health risks associated with the exposure and provide appropriate follow-up care.

• 20
• Accidents (V00-X58), Other external causes of accidental injury (W00-X58)