single braces are used in the tabular list to
A. connect terms on both sides of the braces.
B. include nonessential modifiers and alternative codes.
C. indicate fifth digits required with a code.
D. connect a series of terms on the left with one term on the right.
To find the answer to this question, we need to understand what single braces are used for in a tabular list.
One way to do this is to reference coding guidelines or coding books that provide information on how to navigate and use tabular lists in medical coding. These resources include the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) code book or other similar coding references.
In the context of medical coding, single braces in a tabular list are commonly used for option B, which is to include nonessential modifiers and alternative codes. Nonessential modifiers are additional terms or phrases that provide additional specificity or clarification to the main code. Alternative codes, on the other hand, are different codes that can be used interchangeably to represent the same condition or diagnosis.
By placing these nonessential modifiers and alternative codes within single braces in the tabular list, it indicates that they are optional and are not required for code assignment. This allows coders to choose the appropriate modifier or alternative code based on the specific documentation and context of the patient's condition.
Therefore, the correct answer to this question is B. include nonessential modifiers and alternative codes.