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:
Aminoglycosides are known to have nephrotoxic effects. Nephrotoxicity refers to kidney toxicity, and aminoglycosides can cause damage to the renal tubules, leading to impaired kidney function. The nurse should be alert to this potential toxicity when administering these drugs, as it can result in kidney dysfunction, altered serum creatinine levels, and electrolyte imbalances.
Choice B rationale:
Cardiotoxicity is not typically associated with aminoglycosides. These antibiotics primarily affect the kidneys and the inner ear. There is no direct relationship between aminoglycosides and cardiac toxicity.
Choice C rationale:
Hepatotoxicity refers to liver toxicity and is not a common side effect of aminoglycosides. Aminoglycosides are primarily metabolized in the kidneys and are excreted through urine, making kidney toxicity a more significant concern.
Choice D rationale:
Cytotoxicity is a broad term that refers to the toxicity of cells. Aminoglycosides do not typically cause generalized cytotoxic effects in the body. Their primary toxicities are related to specific organ systems, such as the kidneys and the inner ear.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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