Psychosocial Integrity Nclex PN Questions Related

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The chemotherapeutic DNA alkylating agents such as nitrogen mustards are effective because they:

  • A. cross-link DNA strands with covalent bonds between alkyl groups on the drug and guanine bases on DNA.
  • B. have few, if any, side effects.
  • C. are used to treat multiple types of cancer.
  • D. are cell-cycle-specific agents.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Alkylating agents, such as nitrogen mustards, are effective chemotherapeutic agents because they cross-link DNA strands with covalent bonds between alkyl groups on the drug and guanine bases on DNA. This cross-linking interferes with DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell death. Choice B is incorrect because alkylating agents have numerous side effects, including alopecia, nausea, vomiting, and myelosuppression. Choice C is incorrect because while nitrogen mustards are used to treat multiple types of cancer like chronic lymphocytic leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and breast and ovarian cancer, their effectiveness is primarily due to DNA cross-linkage. Choice D is incorrect because alkylating agents are non-cell-cycle-specific agents, meaning they can act on cells in any phase of the cell cycle, not just on cells that are actively dividing.