CPB Certified Professional Biller Certification Practice Exam

What does the suffix "-emesis" refer to?

1. Pain

2. Vomiting

3. Separation

4. Bad, painful

The correct answer is: Vomiting

The suffix "-emesis" specifically refers to the act of vomiting. This term is derived from the Greek word "emein," which means to vomit. When it appears in medical terminology, it usually describes conditions related to vomiting or the act itself. For instance, the term "hyperemesis" reflects excessive vomiting, often seen in conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy. The context of the other options relates to different medical suffixes or terms. The term for pain would generally involve suffixes like "-algia" or "-dynia." Separation might suggest terms using suffixes like "-lysis." The notion of something being bad or painful could indicate different prefixes or suffixes altogether in medical terms. Thus, the correct identification of "-emesis" as referring to vomiting highlights the importance of understanding specific medical suffixes within the context of health and disease.