Which statement best describes an antiseptic?

Which statement best describes an antiseptic?

• A. Kills all bacteria instantly
• B. Inhibits the growth of microorganisms and is usually a topical agent
• C. Is always used internally
• D. Is used to sterilize equipment

Answer: (B)

Antiseptics are chemical agents applied to living tissue to prevent infection by reducing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, and they are usually used topically on skin or mucous membranes. This matches the statement that antiseptics inhibit the growth of microorganisms and are typically applied to the surface of the body. The idea that they kill all bacteria instantly isn’t accurate—antiseptics may be bacteriostatic or bactericidal, but they don’t guarantee instant, universal sterilization of every organism. They aren’t intended for internal use because many are toxic if absorbed or ingested. And they’re not used to sterilize equipment; sterilization—complete elimination of all forms of life on inanimate objects—is achieved with sterilants, not antiseptics.

Antiseptics are chemical agents applied to living tissue to prevent infection by reducing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, and they are usually used topically on skin or mucous membranes. This matches the statement that antiseptics inhibit the growth of microorganisms and are typically applied to the surface of the body. The idea that they kill all bacteria instantly isn’t accurate—antiseptics may be bacteriostatic or bactericidal, but they don’t guarantee instant, universal sterilization of every organism. They aren’t intended for internal use because many are toxic if absorbed or ingested. And they’re not used to sterilize equipment; sterilization—complete elimination of all forms of life on inanimate objects—is achieved with sterilants, not antiseptics.