Question

multiple select question

select all that apply

icd-10-cm uses a placeholder character designated as \x\ for some codes when which of the following characters are required but the digit space to the left of that character is empty?

sixth
fifth
seventh
fourth

Explanation:

Identify the role of the placeholder character "x"

Using the ICD-10 Placeholder Character knowledge point
In ICD-10-CM coding, the placeholder character "x" is used to allow for future expansion and to fill empty spaces when a code requires a specific subsequent character (such as a 6th or 7th character) to be valid, but the preceding digit spaces are empty.

Determine the specific characters requiring placeholders

Using the ICD-10-CM Structure knowledge point
According to official ICD-10-CM guidelines, the placeholder "x" is used when a code has fewer than 6 characters but requires a:

• Sixth character
• Seventh character

For example, if a code requires a 7th character extension but only has 5 characters, an "x" is placed in the 6th position to maintain the structure. If a code only has 4 characters but requires a 7th character, "x" is used in both the 5th and 6th positions. Thus, the placeholder is used when a sixth or seventh character is required but the preceding space is empty.

Answer:

• Sixth (Correct answer)
• Fifth
• Seventh (Correct answer)
• Fourth