WGU D521 HLTH 2115 Medical Coding Final Exam Review Q & A 2026 (Complete And Verified Study material) (17pages) LEARNEXAMS

1. When coding for a myocardial infarction, what is the significance of the initial encounter diagnosis? - A) It indicates the first time the patient experienced symptoms. - B) It represents the first time the patient is being treated for the MI. - C) It is used to track the patient's response to treatment. - D) It determines the billing cycle for the treatment. Answer: B) It represents the first time the patient is being treated for the MI. Rationale: The initial encounter diagnosis is crucial for coding because it sets the stage for the patient's treatment plan and subsequent billing. It does not necessarily indicate the first time the patient experienced symptoms, which is a common misconception. 2. In ICD-10-CM, how are external causes of morbidity coded? - A) They are coded as primary diagnoses. - B) They are optional and provide supplementary information. - C) They replace the main diagnosis if they are the reason for the visit. - D) They are only used in legal cases. Answer: B) They are optional and provide supplementary information. Rationale: External causes of morbidity codes are used to provide additional context to the clinical scenario and are not meant to replace the primary diagnosis unless they are directly related to the reason for the visit. 3. What is the purpose of the CPT code's modifier -51? - A) To indicate multiple procedures were performed during the same session. - B) To signify that a procedure was repeated due to complications. - C) To denote services provided by more than one physician. - D) To specify that a service was performed bilaterally. Answer: A) To indicate multiple procedures were performed during the same session. Rationale: Modifier -51 is used to indicate that multiple procedures were performed during the same operative session. It helps in the accurate representation of the work done without suggesting repeated or bilateral procedures.