Certified Inpatient Coding (CIC) Practice Exam

The principal diagnosis of Clostridium difficile enterocolitis is significant in determining the appropriate MS-DRG because it relates to a major gastrointestinal condition. MS-DRG assignment takes into account not only the type of diagnosis but also the presence or absence of major complications or comorbidities (MCC) and complications or comorbidities (CC).

In this case, the principal diagnosis falls under the category of major gastrointestinal disorders. When determining the correct MS-DRG, it is important to note that Clostridium difficile enterocolitis is not classified as a condition that typically results in a major complication or comorbidity. Therefore, the assignment of the MS-DRG would not benefit from the inclusion of MCC or possibly even CC.

Thus, the appropriate assignment would be for major gastrointestinal disorders without complications or major complications, which aligns with the characteristics of the diagnosis at hand. Option C accurately reflects this situation, as it pertains to major gastrointestinal disorders without the presence of CC or MCC, fitting the clinical scenario described.