Which of the following statements is true concerning the selection of an antimicrobial agent?
a. An ideal antimicrobial agent is stable during storage
b. An ideal antimicrobial agent is fast acting
c. Ideal microbial agents do not exist
d. All of the above are correct

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the characteristics of an ideal antimicrobial agent. These typically include stability during storage, rapid action against microbes, and other desirable properties such as selective toxicity and minimal side effects.
2. Step 2: Evaluate statement (a): 'An ideal antimicrobial agent is stable during storage.' This is true because stability ensures the agent remains effective over time without degradation.
3. Step 3: Evaluate statement (b): 'An ideal antimicrobial agent is fast acting.' This is also true since rapid action helps quickly control or eliminate the infection.
4. Step 4: Evaluate statement (c): 'Ideal microbial agents do not exist.' This acknowledges that while many agents have desirable properties, no single antimicrobial agent perfectly meets all ideal criteria.
5. Step 5: Combine the evaluations to determine which option is correct. Since (a) and (b) are true and (c) is a realistic acknowledgment, the option stating 'All of the above are correct' (d) is the best choice.

Key Concepts

Properties of an Ideal Antimicrobial Agent

An ideal antimicrobial agent should possess several key properties, including stability during storage to maintain effectiveness, rapid action to quickly inhibit or kill microbes, and safety for the host. These characteristics ensure the agent is practical and effective in clinical or laboratory use.

Stability of Antimicrobial Agents

Stability refers to the ability of an antimicrobial agent to retain its potency and effectiveness over time under various storage conditions. A stable agent does not degrade or lose activity, which is crucial for ensuring consistent therapeutic outcomes.

Limitations of Antimicrobial Agents

While many antimicrobial agents have desirable traits, no single agent perfectly meets all ideal criteria. Factors like resistance, toxicity, and spectrum of activity limit their use, meaning truly 'ideal' antimicrobial agents do not exist in practice.