In which of the following situations would a yes/no query format be considered compliant?

A yes/no query format is compliant when used to resolve conflicting documentation between providers. This format allows the attending physician to make a final determination with a simple, direct response. The query must still contain the relevant clinical indicators and the conflicting statements without introducing new information. Using this format for clarifying conflicting information is one of the few exceptions to the general guidance to avoid leading, yes/no query formats.

A. Clarifying acuity of a disease process is best done with a multiple-choice query to avoid leading the provider to a specific answer (e.g., acute vs. chronic).

B. Obtaining a new diagnosis via a yes/no query is non-compliant as it introduces new information and is considered leading.

C. Obtaining a specification of a contributing organism should be done with a multiple-choice or open-ended query to allow the provider to specify based on clinical evidence.

1. ACDIS/AHIMA. (2019). Guidelines for Achieving a Compliant Query Practice. Section: "Query Format," p. 8. This brief explicitly states that yes/no queries are acceptable for "resolving conflicting information from multiple providers."

2. Association of Clinical Documentation Integrity Specialists (ACDIS). (2021). CCDS-O Certification Exam Candidate Handbook. Domain 2: Clinical and Coding Knowledge. This domain covers the appropriate use of queries based on industry standards like the ACDIS/AHIMA Practice Brief.