American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

Which suffix is commonly associated with ACE inhibitors?

1. -olol

2. -dipine

3. -sartan

4. -pril

The correct answer is: -pril

The suffix commonly associated with ACE inhibitors is **-pril**. This group of medications includes drugs such as enalapril, lisinopril, and ramipril, which are widely used to manage hypertension and heart failure. ACE inhibitors work by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which plays a key role in the renin-angiotensin system that regulates blood pressure. By inhibiting this enzyme, ACE inhibitors help to relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and decrease the workload on the heart. This specific suffix is a hallmark of ACE inhibitor medications, distinguishing them from other classes of drugs. For instance, the suffix **-olol** is associated with beta-blockers, which target different mechanisms in the cardiovascular system. Similarly, the suffix **-dipine** is characteristic of calcium channel blockers, while **-sartan** identifies angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), another class of antihypertensive medications that also affect the renin-angiotensin system but do so differently than ACE inhibitors. Thus, recognizing the suffix **-pril** is essential for healthcare professionals when identifying and understanding ACE inhibitors.