Question

multiple choice question

the alphabetic index is organized by the ______.

location
subterm
condition
body part

Explanation:

Identify the core coding rule

Using the Alphabetic Index knowledge point, we locate diagnostic codes in ICD-10-CM by first identifying the main term. The main term in the index represents the disease, illness, injury, or condition of the patient, rather than an anatomical site or body part.

Evaluate the given options

• location / body part: These are generally listed as subterms under the main condition, rather than the primary organization level of the index.
• subterm: Subterms provide highly specific details (like site, etiology, or clinical type) but are nested under the main terms.
• condition: The main terms in the index are organized alphabetically by the patient's disease, injury, or clinical condition.

Answer:

• location
• subterm
• condition (Correct answer)
• body part