Which term describes the destruction of most microbes using chemicals on a living surface such as the skin?

• A. Sterilization
• B. Antisepsis
• C. Disinfection
• D. Sanitization

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the problem, which involves the destruction of microbes using chemicals on a living surface such as skin.
2. Step 2: Define the key terms: Sterilization refers to the complete destruction of all forms of microbial life, usually on inanimate objects; Disinfection is the elimination of many or all pathogenic microorganisms on inanimate objects; Sanitization reduces microbial numbers to safe levels, typically on surfaces or utensils; Antisepsis is the process of reducing or inhibiting microbes on living tissues.
3. Step 3: Recognize that since the question specifies a living surface (skin), the correct term must apply to living tissues, which excludes sterilization, disinfection, and sanitization as they are generally used for inanimate objects.
4. Step 4: Conclude that the term describing the destruction of most microbes on living surfaces using chemicals is Antisepsis.
5. Step 5: Remember that antiseptics are chemical agents safe for use on skin and mucous membranes to reduce microbial presence without causing harm to the tissue.