Question

______ identify codes to be assigned when information needed to assign a more specific code cannot be located in the ICD-9-CM coding manual?

a. Codes in slanted brackets
b. Nonessential modifiers
c. NEC's
d. Essential modifiers

Answer 1

Codes in slanted brackets are used when specific information needed to assign a more specific code cannot be located in the ICD-9-CM coding manual.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is a. Codes in slanted brackets. These codes, also known as unspecified codes, are used when specific information about a condition or procedure cannot be found in the ICD-9-CM coding manual. They are used as placeholders until more specific information becomes available. An example of a code in slanted brackets is [123.45].

Codes in slanted brackets indicate that more specific information is needed and should be assigned to the patient's record as soon as it becomes available. It is important to regularly update medical records with the precise codes to ensure accurate and detailed documentation of the patient's condition or procedure.

Nonessential modifiers, NEC's (Not Elsewhere Classified), and essential modifiers are not used to identify codes when specific information cannot be located in the ICD-9-CM coding manual.