A group of nursing students are reviewing antineoplastic drugs.
The students demonstrate understanding of the information when they identify which of the following as cell cycle specific?
Alkylating agents.
Plant alkaloids.
Antineoplastic antibiotics.
Retinoids.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale:
Alkylating agents. Alkylating agents are not cell cycle-specific. These agents work by directly binding to DNA and interfering with the cell's ability to replicate and divide. Their action is not limited to a specific phase of the cell cycle, making them non-cell cycle-specific agents. Alkylating agents are often used in cancer chemotherapy to prevent cell division and growth.
Choice C rationale:
Antineoplastic antibiotics. Antineoplastic antibiotics are not cell cycle-specific either. These drugs, such as doxorubicin and bleomycin, work by disrupting DNA and RNA synthesis and are used to treat various types of cancer. However, they do not specifically target cells in a particular phase of the cell cycle.
Choice D rationale:
Retinoids. Retinoids are not cell cycle-specific antineoplastic agents. Retinoids are compounds related to vitamin A and are used for various medical purposes, including some cancer treatments. However, their mechanism of action is not tied to a specific phase of the cell cycle, making them non-cell cycle-specific.
Choice B rationale:
Plant alkaloids. Plant alkaloids, such as vinca alkaloids (vincristine and vinblastine) and taxanes (paclitaxel), are considered cell cycle-specific antineoplastic drugs. These agents interfere with microtubule function, which is critical during mitosis (cell division). By disrupting microtubules, they specifically target rapidly dividing cancer cells during the M phase of the cell cycle. This selectivity for actively dividing cells makes plant alkaloids cell cycle-specific antineoplastic drugs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Fertility problems are one of the long-term adverse reactions that may occur with antineoplastic therapy. Some chemotherapy drugs can impact fertility in both males and females, either temporarily or permanently. It's important to discuss these potential effects with patients before starting treatment, as it may influence their decisions about family planning.
Choice B rationale:
Thrombocytopenia is not a long-term adverse reaction but a potential short-term side effect of antineoplastic therapy. Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count and can lead to bleeding problems.
Choice C rationale:
Leukopenia is not a long-term adverse reaction but rather a potential short-term side effect of antineoplastic therapy. Leukopenia refers to a decrease in white blood cell count and can increase the risk of infections.
Choice D rationale:
Stomatitis is not typically considered a long-term adverse reaction to antineoplastic therapy. Stomatitis is a common side effect of chemotherapy that involves inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, and it usually occurs during treatment rather than persisting as a long-term effect.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tapeworm. Tapeworm infections are caused by parasites known as cestodes. Antiprotozoal drugs are primarily used to treat infections caused by protozoa, which are a different type of pathogen. Tapeworms are not protozoa; they are classified as helminths. Therefore, using antiprotozoal drugs for tapeworm infections is not indicated.
Choice B rationale:
Aspergillosis. Aspergillosis is a fungal infection caused by Aspergillus species. Antiprotozoal drugs are not effective against fungal infections. They are designed to target protozoa, which are a different group of microorganisms. Therefore, antiprotozoal drugs are not indicated for the treatment of aspergillosis.
Choice D rationale:
Cryptococcal meningitis. Cryptococcal meningitis is a fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans. Like aspergillosis, it is caused by a fungus, not a protozoan parasite. Antiprotozoal drugs are not appropriate for the treatment of fungal infections. Therefore, the use of antiprotozoal drugs is not indicated for cryptosporidium meningitis.
Choice C rationale:
Giardiasis. Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the protozoan parasite Giardia lamblia. Antiprotozoal drugs, such as metronidazole, are effective in treating giardiasis. These drugs target protozoa and disrupt their cellular functions, making them a suitable choice for the treatment of giardiasis.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.