Which of the following best describes the difference between an antiseptic and a disinfectant?

• A. An antiseptic is only effective against viruses, while a disinfectant is effective against bacteria.
• B. An antiseptic kills all microorganisms, while a disinfectant only inhibits their growth.
• C. An antiseptic is used to sterilize surgical instruments, while a disinfectant is used to clean wounds.
• D. An antiseptic is safe for use on living tissues, while a disinfectant is used on non-living surfaces.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of antiseptics and disinfectants. Antiseptics are chemical agents applied to living tissues to reduce the possibility of infection, sepsis, or putrefaction.
2. Step 2: Recognize that disinfectants are chemical agents used on non-living surfaces to destroy or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms.
3. Step 3: Note the key difference lies in their safe application: antiseptics are safe for use on skin and mucous membranes, whereas disinfectants are too harsh for living tissues and are used on inanimate objects.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the incorrect options by comparing their claims to the definitions: antiseptics are not limited to viruses, do not necessarily kill all microorganisms, and are not used to sterilize instruments.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is that antiseptics are safe for use on living tissues, while disinfectants are used on non-living surfaces.