175k views
3 votes
Disinfectants used to clean surfaces and other re-usable items are known as:

a) Antibiotics
b) Antivirals
c) Antiseptics
d) Sanitizers

User Kwelsan
by
9.2k points

1 Answer

3 votes

Final answer:

Disinfectants are referred to as (d) sanitizers when used to clean surfaces, while an antiseptic is suitable for microbial control on living tissues.

Step-by-step explanation:

Disinfectants used to clean surfaces and other re-usable items are known as sanitizers. Whereas, the suitable option for use on tissues for microbial control to prevent infection is an antiseptic. Disinfectants inactivate most microbes on the surface of a fomite, but do not necessarily lead to sterilization, as some microbes, especially endospores, may survive.

Antiseptics, on the other hand, are safe for use on living tissues and work by reducing the number of microorganisms to prevent infection. Examples include hydrogen peroxide and isopropyl alcohol. Chemicals like phenol and triclosan serve as reference points for comparing the effectiveness of other disinfectants and antiseptics.

User Michaela Ervin
by
8.1k points