A patient who has been taking antihypertensive drugs for a few months states that a new, persistent dry cough is very bothersome. The nurse knows that this cough is an adverse effect of which class of antihypertensive drugs?

The correct answer is C: Angiotensin-converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors. ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril, are known to cause a persistent dry cough as an adverse effect due to increased bradykinin levels. Bradykinin is a substance in the body that can lead to coughing when elevated. This adverse effect is unique to ACE inhibitors and not commonly seen with other antihypertensive drug classes.

Incorrect Choices:
A: Calcium channel blockers do not typically cause a dry cough.
B: Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) do not affect bradykinin levels and are not associated with a dry cough.
D: Beta-blockers are not known to cause a dry cough as an adverse effect.