Antisepsis is the practice of using chemical agents to eliminate or inhibit pathogenic microorganisms on living tissues, particularly skin and mucous membranes. It is a crucial procedure in preventing infections during medical procedures.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Antiseptics are typically used on living tissues, whereas disinfectants are used on non-living surfaces.
Common antiseptic agents include alcohols, iodine compounds, and chlorhexidine.
The effectiveness of an antiseptic can be influenced by factors such as concentration, contact time, and presence of organic matter.
Antisepsis is a key component in surgical hand preparation and wound care to prevent infection.
Overuse of antiseptics can lead to resistance in some microorganisms, underscoring the need for proper use guidelines.