Contusion of right shoulder, initial encounter

This code signifies a bruise or superficial injury to the right shoulder resulting from blunt force trauma, such as a fall or direct impact. It indicates damage to the soft tissues, like muscle or subcutaneous tissue, without an open wound or fracture.

Apply this code for patients presenting with a new, acute contusion of the right shoulder. This is appropriate when the patient is receiving initial treatment for the injury, including evaluation, diagnosis, and initial management.

• Ensure documentation specifies the right shoulder and confirms it's the initial encounter for this specific injury.
• Do not use if there is an open wound, fracture, or dislocation; more specific codes would apply.
• If the patient is seen for follow-up care for this same injury, a subsequent encounter code (e.g., S40.011D) would be appropriate.