Final answer:
Topical antiseptics are key in infection control for living tissues. They are used for treating wounds, preventing newborn eye infections, and as antibacterials in catheters and bandages. They must be effective against microbes without harming tissue, and safety concerns have led to the decline of certain toxic antiseptics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Topical antiseptics are antimicrobial chemicals safe for use on living tissues, and they play a crucial role in infection control. Unlike disinfectants, which are used on inanimate objects, antiseptics must be selectively effective against microorganisms and able to penetrate tissue without causing damage. One common use of antiseptics is in the treatment of wounds and burns, where they help prevent bacterial infections and aid in the healing process. For example, Betadine, a solution of the iodophor povidone-iodine, is a topical antiseptic used on a patient's skin before surgery to minimize the risk of infection.
Additionally, antiseptics have been used for the prevention of eye infections in newborns, historically utilizing silver nitrate drops. Now, more commonly, antibiotic creams are used for this purpose. Antiseptics like silver compounds are also embedded in catheters and bandages, providing an antibacterial surface that helps prevent infections. In dental hygiene, antiseptic mouthwashes help slow enamel degradation and combat microbial growth. While the use of some antiseptics has declined due to toxicity concerns, such as those containing mercury, the prudent use of antimicrobial agents, particularly topical antiseptics, remains essential in healthcare for maintaining high standards of infection control and sanitation practices.