Question

multiple choice question

the seventh character must always be in position seven of the alphanumeric code, so if the code is not at least six characters long, the placeholder character ______ must be used to fill that empty space.

\x\
\s\
\y\
\o\

Explanation:

Identify the coding system rules

Using the ICD-10 Placeholder Character and Dummy Placeholder knowledge points

In ICD-10-CM coding, certain codes require a 7th character to specify the encounter details (such as initial, subsequent, or sequela). If a code has fewer than 6 characters but requires a 7th character, a placeholder character must be used to fill the empty spaces.

Determine the placeholder character

Using the ICD-10 Placeholder Character and Dummy Placeholder knowledge points

The standard placeholder character designated by the ICD-10-CM official guidelines is the lowercase letter "x". This acts as a dummy placeholder to keep the 7th character in its correct position (position seven).

Answer:

• (A) "x" (Correct answer)
• (B) "s"
• (C) "y"
• (D) "o"