CodingQuestion 2 of 100
An ICD-10-CM code shown with a dash (for example, S52.5-) in a coding reference most directly signals that:
a.The code has been deleted from the current code set
b.The code may only be used for external causes
c.Additional characters are required to reach a valid, complete code
d.The code is exempt from the diagnosis present-on-admission indicator
Explanation
A trailing dash is a placeholder convention indicating that the code is incomplete and needs one or more additional characters. Submitting a truncated code that lacks required characters will cause the claim to be rejected. The coder must consult the Tabular List to assign all required characters, including any seventh character.
Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- In ICD-10-CM, what does the abbreviation NOS in the Alphabetic Index or Tabular List indicate?
- The ICD-10-CM convention 'code first' instructs the coder to:
- In the ICD-10-CM Tabular List, the note 'Excludes1' means:
- Which seventh character in an ICD-10-CM injury code identifies a subsequent (follow-up) encounter during the healing phase?
- The main term used to locate a diagnosis in the ICD-10-CM Alphabetic Index is generally:
- The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code set is divided into three categories. Category I codes primarily describe:
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against NHA Certified Billing & Coding Specialist (CBCS) Exam · How we review