Antiseptics - Role in Infection Control

Antiseptics are substances that are applied to living tissues to reduce the possibility of infection, sepsis, or putrefaction. These antimicrobial agents are commonly used to cleanse wounds, skin, and mucous membranes to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.
Category
Medical supplies
Where to get
Available at pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and first-aid kits
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Antiseptics FAQ


Image credit: dettol.co.nz

What are antiseptics used for?

Antiseptics kill, inhibit, or reduce the number of microorganisms by mechanical removal or chemical activity. Antiseptics are commonly used for: Hand washing — chlorhexidine gluconate and povidone-iodine solutions are often used in hand rubs in hospitals and other health care settings.

What is an antiseptic & how does it work?

An antiseptic is a substance that stops or slows down the growth of microorganisms. They’re frequently used in hospitals and other medical settings to reduce the risk of infection during surgery and other procedures.

What does antiseptic mean?

An antiseptic ( Greek: ἀντί, romanized : anti, lit. 'against' and σηπτικός, sēptikos, 'putrefactive' ) is an antimicrobial substance or compound that is applied to living tissue to reduce the possibility of sepsis, infection or putrefaction.

How do antiseptics help prevent microorganisms on the skin?

Antiseptics can help prevent the growth of microorganisms on the skin. Antiseptics are chemicals that people apply to the skin. They can reduce the number of microorganisms living on the skin, in wounds, and in mucous membranes. Different types of antiseptic vary in cost, effectiveness, uses, and potential side effects.

Why are antiseptics used in health care settings?

Antiseptics are widely used in health care to kill or stop the growth of microbes on the skin and mucous membranes. They are also used in public and home settings for treating minor wounds and cleaning hands. There is an important difference between the antiseptics used in health care settings and the ones available to consumers.

Antiseptics References

If you want to know more about Antiseptics, consider exploring links below:

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