Puncture wound w/o foreign body of unsp upper arm, init

This code signifies a penetrating injury to the upper arm, such as from a nail or needle, where no foreign object remains embedded in the tissue. The wound is characterized by a small entry point and may involve underlying structures without significant tissue loss. This specific code is used when the exact location on the upper arm is not documented.

Apply this code for initial encounters with patients presenting with a puncture wound to the upper arm, where the medical record explicitly states no foreign body is present. This is appropriate for injuries like stepping on a nail or being pricked by a sharp object, provided the specific location on the upper arm (e.g., right vs. left, anterior vs. posterior) is not specified.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "without foreign body" to differentiate from codes for retained foreign bodies.
• Verify that the encounter is the initial treatment for this injury; subsequent care would use a different seventh character.
• Avoid using this code if the specific upper arm (right or left) or a more precise anatomical location is documented; look for more specific codes in the S41.13- series.