Final answer:
Overly concentrated sanitizing solutions can cause human tissue irritation, development of antimicrobial resistance, and superinfections. Environmental impacts and incorrect efficacy assessments of non-ideal solutions are also concerns. Protective measures and proper use are crucial for safety and effectiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the concentration of sanitizing solutions is too strong, several adverse effects may occur. Firstly, such solutions can be harmful to human tissue, potentially causing irritation or chemical burns to skin, eyes, or mucous membranes. This is especially pertinent for personnel who routinely use disinfectants in high concentrations. For instance, chlorinated compounds, while effective, can cause irritation for some individuals. Additionally, the high osmolarity of strong solutions can cause cellular damage to both microbes and human cells.
Overuse or high concentrations of antimicrobial agents can also lead to environmental and biological consequences. It can potentially cultivate resistant strains of bacteria, creating a greater problem of antimicrobial resistance. More resistant 'superbugs' may evolve because of the selective pressure exerted by overusing germicidal chemicals. In healthcare settings, the emergence of superinfections has been linked to the broad-spectrum use of antimicrobials, as indicated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Additionally, the incorrect perception of germicide efficacy due to non-ideal solutions can occur when the solutions are too concentrated. For example, the high concentration of a solution can lead to non-ideal behavior, requiring adjustments in calculations such as using hydronium activities instead of concentrations for accurate measurements.