CPC ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Coding

Question 1

In ICD-10-CM, how many characters can a valid code have?

Accepted Answer

3–7 characters

Answer

ICD-10-CM codes range from 3 to 7 characters in length, always beginning with a letter.

Question 2

What does a placeholder character 'X' serve in ICD-10-CM coding?

Accepted Answer

Allows future expansion and fills empty character positions

Answer

The placeholder 'X' is used to allow future code expansion and to fill empty character positions in a code.

Question 3

Which ICD-10-CM 7th character extension indicates an initial encounter for an injury?

Accepted Answer

A

Answer

The 7th character 'A' designates an initial encounter, meaning the patient is receiving active treatment for the condition.

Question 4

What is the correct sequencing rule for coding outpatient visits?

Accepted Answer

Code the reason for the visit (first-listed diagnosis)

Answer

For outpatient visits, the first-listed diagnosis is the condition chiefly responsible for the services provided.

Question 5

In ICD-10-CM, the abbreviation 'NEC' stands for:

Accepted Answer

Not elsewhere classifiable

Answer

NEC means 'not elsewhere classifiable' and is used when there is no more specific code available.

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