Asphyxiation due to plastic bag, assault, subs encntr

This diagnosis code indicates a non-accidental injury resulting from suffocation caused by a plastic bag. It specifically denotes that the patient is being seen for follow-up care or complications related to an assault where a plastic bag was used to restrict breathing.

Apply this code when documenting subsequent encounters for a patient who has previously been diagnosed with asphyxiation due to a plastic bag in the context of an assault. This includes visits for ongoing physical or psychological sequelae, rehabilitation, or monitoring of long-term effects.

• Ensure the documentation clearly states the mechanism of injury (plastic bag), the intent (assault), and that this is not the initial encounter for the injury.
• Always sequence this code after any codes for specific injuries or conditions resulting from the asphyxiation.
• Consider additional codes for psychological trauma (e.g., PTSD) or other injuries sustained during the assault, if applicable and documented.