A supervisor instructs an inpatient coder to change codes in a way that contradicts Official Guidelines and the documentation. What is the most appropriate ethical response?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
When a boss says “just change it” and the record and guidelines say otherwise, ethics win. Decline the improper edit and take it up the compliance ladder. Courage plus process beats quiet compliance theater.
Full Explanation
AHIMA Standards of Ethical Coding require adherence to Official Guidelines and documentation support, even when managers pressure otherwise. Coders should refuse improper code changes and escalate through established compliance or integrity channels. Hierarchy does not authorize guideline violations or falsified coded data.