Final answer:
The instruction 'Use Additional Code' is part of the ICD coding guidelines and suggests that multiple codes may be used to describe a condition in detail. The sequence of codes is based on the primary reason for the visit or the condition's severity. ICD codes are found in medical laboratories and health-care management systems, among other healthcare areas.
Step-by-step explanation:
The instruction in the question refers to "Use Additional Code" which is a guideline used in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) coding system. This notation indicates that a secondary code should be included when reporting a condition if more detail is needed to fully capture the diagnosis. Depending on the situation, either of the codes can be listed first. For example, a patient with a complicated health issue may require multiple codes to express all aspects of the condition. The sequencing of which code is listed first can depend on the primary reason for the encounter, or on which condition is considered more severe at the time of coding.
ICD codes have several applications in healthcare. They are used by clinicians to order the correct laboratory tests and prescribe appropriate treatments. They also enable medical laboratories to identify the necessary tests for confirming a diagnosis. Once treatment is provided, medical coders and billers use the ICD codes to process insurance claims effectively. Outside of patient care, these codes are essential for maintaining vital records and assisting epidemiologists in tracking morbidity and mortality rates.
Two locations where you would likely find an ICD code are medical laboratories and the health-care management system.