60+ Junior Medical Coder Interview Questions and Answers

Medications given to patients with myocardial conditions depend on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

• Medications may include antiplatelet agents, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics.

• In severe cases, medications such as nitroglycerin or thrombolytics may be given.

• Treatment plans are individualized based on the patient's medical history and current condition.

Drugs used for heart failure include ACE inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics, and aldosterone antagonists.

• ACE inhibitors help relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure

• Beta blockers slow down the heart rate and reduce the workload on the heart

• Diuretics help the body get rid of excess fluid and reduce swelling

• Aldosterone antagonists block the effects of a hormone that can worsen heart failure

• Examples of these drugs include lisinopril, carvedilol, furosemide, and spironolac...read more

The femur is the largest bone in our body.

• The femur is located in the thigh and is also the strongest bone in the body.

• It connects the hip bone to the knee joint and helps in walking, running, and jumping.

• The average length of the femur in an adult is about 18-20 inches.

• It is also an important bone for medical professionals to code and document in patient records.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar.

• It is the most common form of diabetes

• It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin

• Risk factors include obesity, physical inactivity, and genetics

• Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision

• Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medication, and insulin therapy

The range of vitamin D3 in human body is 20-50 ng/mL.

• Vitamin D3 is synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight.

• It helps in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus in the body.

• A deficiency of vitamin D3 can lead to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.

• Excessive intake of vitamin D3 can lead to toxicity and hypercalcemia.

There are 206 bones in the human body.

• The human skeleton is made up of 206 bones.

• Bones are classified into five types: long, short, flat, irregular, and sesamoid.

• Examples of bones include the femur, skull, and vertebrae.

The interview questions cover topics related to bones, medical imaging, body systems, and medical coding.

• An adult has 206 bones while a newborn baby has around 270 bones which fuse together as they grow.

• MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images, X-ray uses electromagnetic radiation, and CT scan uses X-rays to produce cross-sectional images.

• Preparations for the interview may include researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and re...read more

Medical coding is the process of assigning standardized codes to medical diagnoses, procedures, and treatments.

• Medical coding involves translating medical information into alphanumeric codes.

• These codes are used for billing, insurance claims, and statistical analysis.

• Medical coders need to have knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines.

• Examples of coding systems include ICD-10-CM for diagnoses and CPT for procedures.

The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, the digestive system processes food for energy and nutrients, and the musculoskeletal system supports the body and allows movement.

• Cardiovascular system includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood circulation.

• Digestive system includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, and organs like liver and pancreas.

• Musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, joints, and connective tissues.

• Exc...read more

The human body is composed of different systems that work together to maintain homeostasis and support life.

• The human body is made up of several systems including the skeletal system, muscular system, circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, nervous system, and more.

• Each system has specific organs and structures that perform unique functions to keep the body healthy and functioning properly.

• For example, the skeletal system provides support and protection for ...read more

Coding is the process of assigning specific codes to medical diagnoses, procedures, and services.

• Coding helps in accurately documenting and categorizing medical information.

• It ensures uniformity and standardization in medical records.

• Coding facilitates efficient billing and reimbursement processes.

• It aids in research, analysis, and reporting of healthcare data.

• Examples of coding systems include ICD-10-CM, CPT, and HCPCS.

Dr. Robert B. Shaw is considered the father of medical coding.

• Dr. Robert B. Shaw is credited with developing the first standardized system of medical coding.

• He created the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system in the mid-20th century.

• His work laid the foundation for modern medical coding and classification systems.

• Dr. Shaw's contributions have greatly improved healthcare data management and analysis.

The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells.

• The cardiovascular system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood.

• The heart pumps blood through the blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to cells.

• Common procedures in the cardiovascular system include angioplasty and bypass surgery.

• CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) codes are used to report medical procedures and services performed by...read more

The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body.

• Consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood

• Transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products

• Helps maintain body temperature and pH balance

• Examples: heart pumping blood, arteries carrying oxygenated blood, veins returning deoxygenated blood

The body's systems are interconnected networks of organs and tissues that work together to perform specific functions.

• The body's systems include the circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, nervous system, etc.

• Each system has specific organs and tissues that work together to carry out functions necessary for survival.

• For example, the circulatory system includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood, which work together to transport oxygen and nutrients througho...read more

USAP project has coding guidelines for medical coders.

• USAP project stands for Uniform Service Account Program.

• Coding guidelines ensure accurate and consistent coding.

• Guidelines cover various aspects such as coding conventions, modifiers, and bundling rules.

• Examples of guidelines include using the correct ICD-10 codes and assigning appropriate CPT codes.

• Following guidelines is important for proper reimbursement and compliance with regulations.

Smallest bone in human is stapes in the ear.

• Stapes is also known as stirrup bone.

• It is located in the middle ear.

• It measures about 2.8 mm in length.

• It is responsible for transmitting sound vibrations to the inner ear.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. There are mainly three types of diabetes - Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes.

• Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

• Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin.

• Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after giv...read more

The femur is the largest bone in the human body.

• The femur, also known as the thigh bone, is located in the upper leg.

• It is the longest and strongest bone in the body.

• The femur connects the hip bone to the knee joint.

• It plays a crucial role in supporting the body's weight and facilitating movement.

• Examples of other bones in the body include the humerus, tibia, and fibula.

OCD full form is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, a mental health condition characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

• OCD is a common mental health disorder that affects people of all ages.

• Obsessions are intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause distress.

• Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession.

• Example: Someone with OCD may have obsessions about germs and feel comp...read more

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose).

• Diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

• There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

• Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue.

• Complications of diabetes can include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage.

• Treatment for di...read more

There are 11 major systems present in the human body.

• The 11 major systems in the human body are: circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, nervous, endocrine, immune, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and reproductive.

• Each system has specific functions and organs that work together to maintain homeostasis and keep the body functioning properly.

• For example, the circulatory system includes the heart, blood vessels, and blood, and is responsible for transporting oxygen an...read more

Remission status of cancer refers to the absence of signs and symptoms of cancer.

• Remission status indicates that the cancer is no longer active or growing.

• It can be partial remission, where some signs of cancer remain, or complete remission, where there are no signs of cancer.

• Remission can be achieved through various treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.

• Regular follow-up and monitoring are necessary to determine if the cancer remains in remission.

• Exa...read more

The rib bone is called the rib and there are 12 pairs in the human body.

• The rib bone is flat and curved, forming the ribcage to protect vital organs.

• There are 12 pairs of ribs in the human body, with the first 7 pairs known as true ribs and the remaining 5 pairs known as false ribs.

• Each rib is attached to the thoracic vertebrae in the back and the sternum in the front.

• The ribs play a crucial role in protecting the heart, lungs, and other organs in the chest cavity.

The heart functions as a muscular pump that circulates blood throughout the body.

• The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues and organs.

• It receives oxygen-poor blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation.

• The heart has four chambers - two atria and two ventricles - that work together to maintain blood flow.

• The heart's electrical system controls the heartbeat, ensuring proper rhythm and rate.

FNA biopsy without I.G '3 lesion' refers to a fine needle aspiration biopsy performed without image guidance on a lesion.

• FNA biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain tissue samples for diagnosis.

• Performing the biopsy without image guidance means it was done without the aid of imaging techniques such as ultrasound or CT scan.

• The term '3 lesion' likely refers to a specific type or location of lesion being biopsied.

My inspiration is my mother who worked hard to provide for our family. Success to me is achieving personal and professional goals while making a positive impact on others.

• My mother is my inspiration because she worked multiple jobs to support our family and always put others before herself.

• Success, to me, is not only achieving personal and professional goals but also making a positive impact on others through my work as a medical coder.

• I believe success is measured by the rel...read more

Major signs and symptoms of diseases vary depending on the condition.

• Fever, cough, and shortness of breath are common symptoms of COVID-19.

• Chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath are major symptoms of heart disease.

• Headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light are common symptoms of migraines.

• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are major symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting are common symptoms of gastroenteritis.

• Memory loss, confusion, and...read more

Glaucoma guidelines are recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve.

• Regular eye exams are essential for early detection of glaucoma.

• Treatment options include eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery.

• Monitoring intraocular pressure is important in managing glaucoma.

• Patients with glaucoma should be educated about the importance of compliance with medication and follow-up appointments.

Respiratory diseases are conditions that affect the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system, leading to difficulty breathing and other symptoms.

• Respiratory diseases can be caused by infections, smoking, pollution, or genetic factors

• Common examples include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and lung cancer

• Symptoms of respiratory diseases may include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest pain

• Treatment for respiratory diseases m...read more

The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing waste products.

• The heart is the main organ of the cardiovascular system, responsible for pumping blood throughout the body

• Blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries, transport blood to and from the heart and throughout the body

• The cardiovascular system is essential for maintaining homeostasis and regulating blood pressure

• Co...read more

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts.

• Cholecystitis is commonly associated with severe abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

• It can be acute or chronic, with acute cholecystitis requiring immediate medical attention.

• Treatment may involve antibiotics, pain management, and in severe cases, surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy).

The A B C table is a tool used in medical decision making to assess the severity and urgency of a patient's condition.

• The A B C stands for Airway, Breathing, and Circulation.

• It is used to prioritize patient care based on the criticality of these three vital functions.

• For example, if a patient's airway is compromised, it takes precedence over other concerns.

• The table helps medical coders assign appropriate codes based on the urgency and severity of the patient's condition.

Exclude 1 and 2 are used in ICD-10 coding to indicate that certain codes should not be used together.

• Exclude 1 means the two codes should never be used together, while Exclude 2 means they can be used together under certain circumstances.

• Exclude 1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together in the same patient, while Exclude 2 is used when the conditions are unrelated but can coexist.

• For example, if a patient has a diagnosis of diabetes with renal complications, you wou...read more

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, can be classified into different types based on the location and severity of the blockage in the coronary arteries.

• Types of myocardial infarction include ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and silent myocardial infarction.

• STEMI is characterized by a complete blockage of a coronary artery, leading to a significant portion of the heart muscle being ...read more

Myocardial infarction is a heart attack caused by blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle.

• Myocardial infarction is commonly known as a heart attack.

• Types of myocardial infarction include STEMI (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction) and NSTEMI (non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction).

• STEMI is a more severe type of heart attack with complete blockage of a coronary artery, while NSTEMI is a less severe type with partial blockage.

• Treatment for myocardial infarcti...read more

Vital signs are essential measurements that indicate the basic functions of the body.

• Vital signs include temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate.

• These measurements help assess a person's overall health and detect any abnormalities.

• For example, a normal body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C), blood pressure should be within a certain range, heart rate is typically between 60-100 beats per minute, and respiratory rate is around 12-20 breaths per minute.

I will speak about the importance of medical coding in healthcare.

• Medical coding is essential for accurately documenting patient diagnoses and treatments.

• It ensures proper reimbursement from insurance companies.

• Coding errors can lead to financial loss and legal issues for healthcare providers.

• Coders must stay updated on coding guidelines and regulations.

• For example, CPT codes are used to bill for medical procedures.

• ICD-10 codes are used to classify diseases and diagnoses.

ICD 10 guidelines provide rules for assigning codes to diagnoses and procedures based on the affected body system.

• ICD 10 guidelines categorize codes by body system, such as circulatory, respiratory, musculoskeletal, etc.

• Codes are assigned based on the main reason for the encounter, not all conditions present.

• Guidelines include instructions for sequencing multiple diagnoses and when to use combination codes.

• Specific guidelines exist for obstetrics, injuries, poisoning, and ext...read more

Accessory organs of skin include hair, nails, and glands that support and protect the skin.

• Hair: Provides insulation and protection for the scalp.

• Nails: Protect the tips of the fingers and toes.

• Glands: Sebaceous glands produce oil to keep skin moisturized, while sweat glands help regulate body temperature.

The digestion system is a series of organs that work together to break down food into nutrients that the body can absorb and use for energy.

• The digestion system includes organs such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.

• Digestion begins in the mouth with the process of chewing and the release of enzymes in saliva.

• The stomach further breaks down food with the help of stomach acid and enzymes.

• Nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, while ...read more

AAPC stands for American Academy of Professional Coders.

• AAPC is a professional organization for medical coders and billers.

• They offer certifications such as CPC (Certified Professional Coder).

• AAPC provides training, networking opportunities, and resources for medical coders.

• Membership in AAPC can help advance a career in medical coding.

The code for long term use of insulin is E11.9

• ICD-10 code E11.9 is used for long term use of insulin in diabetes mellitus

• Assign additional codes for any complications or manifestations related to the insulin use

Antigen is a foreign substance that triggers the immune system to produce antibodies. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to neutralize antigens.

• Antigen is a substance that is recognized by the immune system as foreign and triggers an immune response

• Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to antigens

• Antibodies bind to antigens to neutralize them and help the immune system eliminate them

• Examples: COVID-19 virus is an antigen, and the...read more

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood due to the body's inability to produce or use insulin effectively.

• Diabetes mellitus is classified into type 1, type 2, gestational, and other specific types.

• Symptoms include frequent urination, increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

• Treatment may involve medication, insulin therapy, diet and exercise management.

• Complications of diabetes mellitus include heart disease, k...read more

The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells that transmit signals between different parts of the body.

• The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and the peripheral nervous system (PNS).

• The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS includes all the nerves outside of the CNS.

• The nervous system controls voluntary actions (such as walking) and involuntary actions (such as breathing).

• Examples of nervous system disorders include ...read more

An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the body for the discharge of waste.

• Ostomy is often performed when a part of the digestive or urinary system is removed or damaged.

• There are different types of ostomies, such as colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy.

• Patients with an ostomy may need to use a pouching system to collect waste.

• Ostomies can be temporary or permanent, depending on the reason for the surgery.

• Common conditions that may require an ostomy includ...read more