Question

multiple choice question

the use of ______ in the alphabetic index around a code means that it cannot be the first-listed code in coding the diagnostic statement.

brackets
parentheses
bolded text
italics

Explanation:

Identify the ICD-10-CM convention for sequencing

Using the ICD-10 Conventions and Etiology Manifestation Convention knowledge points

• In the ICD-10-CM Alphabetic Index, when a code is displayed in slanted or italicized brackets, it indicates a manifestation of an underlying disease.
• The etiology-manifestation convention dictates that the underlying condition (etiology) must be sequenced first, followed immediately by the manifestation code.
• Therefore, a code enclosed in brackets in the Alphabetic Index cannot be designated as the principal or first-listed diagnosis.

Differentiate from other punctuation marks

Using the Parentheses in ICD-10 knowledge point

• Parentheses are used to enclose nonessential modifiers—supplementary words that may be present or absent in the diagnostic statement without affecting the code assignment.
• Bolded text and italics are formatting styles used for headings, main terms, or instructional notes, but they do not enclose codes to restrict sequencing.
• Thus, brackets are the specific punctuation mark that restricts a code from being first-listed.

Answer:

• brackets (Correct answer)
• parentheses
• bolded text
• italics