After administering an antineoplastic drug, the nurse bases the ongoing assessment on which of the following factors?

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.

Choice A rationale:

Alkylating agents are cell cycle-specific drugs. They work on cells during various stages of the cell cycle and are classified as cell cycle phase-nonspecific drugs. These drugs form covalent bonds with DNA, preventing DNA replication and transcription. This action disrupts the cell cycle, making them effective against actively dividing cells.

Choice B rationale:

Plant alkaloids are not cell cycle-specific drugs. Plant alkaloids, such as vinblastine and vincristine, are derived from plants and are classified as cell cycle phase-specific drugs. They primarily affect cells during the M phase of the cell cycle by disrupting microtubule formation. While they are effective against rapidly dividing cells, they are not cell cycle-specific.

Choice C rationale:

Antineoplastic antibiotics are not cell cycle-specific drugs. These drugs, such as doxorubicin and daunorubicin, are used in cancer treatment and primarily work by intercalating with DNA and inhibiting topoisomerase enzymes. Their mechanisms of action do not specifically target a particular phase of the cell cycle, making them cell cycle phase-nonspecific.

Choice D rationale:

Retinoids are not cell cycle-specific drugs. Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and have various mechanisms of action, including regulating cell growth and differentiation. They are not classified as cell cycle-specific drugs.