Evaluation of Antiseptics (Exercise 32)

Question 1

Antiseptics

Answer 1

Substances such as alcohol or betadine that inhibit microbial growth or kill microorganisms and are gentle enough to be applied to living tissues. DO NOT DESTROY ENDOSPORES!!!

Question 2

Disinfectants

Answer 2

Chemical agents that are applied to inanimate objects such as floors , walls, and table tops to kill microorganisms, they are usually more harsh than antiseptics.

Question 3

Steriliants (sporocides)

Answer 3

Destroy all microbial life including endospores. Example: ethylene oxide

Question 4

Sanitizers

Answer 4

Agents that reduce microbial numbers to a safe level but do not completely eliminate all microbes

Question 5

Bacteriostatic

Answer 5

Agents that only inhibit growth of bacterial cells but do not kill them

Question 6

Bacteriocidal

Answer 6

Agents that kill bacterial cells

Question 7

What factors influence the size of the zone of inhibition produced by a chemical?

Answer 7

Diffusion rate of the chemical through the alcohol and the concentration of the chemical.

Question 8

How might physical differences between gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria contribute to differences in chemical resistances?

Answer 8

The outter membrane of gram-negative bacteria provide an extra layer of protection compared to gram-positive bacteria. Gram-negative bacteria are more resistant to chemical penetration.

Question 9

What mouthwash seemed to work best? How do you know this?

Answer 9

Hydrogen peroxide, the zone of inhibition was the largest.