When ICD-10 went live this month, it brought with it a truck load of new codes — 55,000 new codes to be exact. And while these highly-specific codes will help the medical community better classify illness and injury, some are downright strange. Check out this list of some of the more bizarre ICD-10 codes:
Bitten by cow – W55.21XA
Next time you bite into a hamburger, know this: cows bite back.
Bitten by Dolphin – W56.01XA
You thought swimming with the dolphins would be a fun activity on your next tropical vacation. Think again. With nearly 100 teeth, a dolphin bite could put a serious damper on your trip. Maybe just stick to the hotel pool.
Struck by Chicken – W61.32XA
If a chicken runs into you, even at full speed, you have to assume it wouldn’t cause serious injury. Which leads you to believe that someone else is using the chicken to do the striking. What kind of madman uses a chicken as a weapon?
Burn due to Water-skis on fire – V91.07XA
The question isn’t “why does this code exist,” it’s “how do you keep your skis aflame while on water?” Something to try on your next lake trip.
Walked into Lampost – W22.02XA
With an increase in texting while walking, it isn’t hard to see this happening. Save yourself the embarrassment of having to explain this at the ER. Keep your phone in your pocket and your eyes forward.
Problems in Relationship with In-Laws – Z63.1
Next time you skip an event with the in-laws, you’re not being rude, you’re protecting yourself. Safety first.
Struck by Golf Ball – W21.04XA
When someone yells “Fore!”, you duck.