EVALUATION OF CHEMICAL ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS Flashcards
What is the definition of disinfection?
the inhibition or killing of microorganisms that may cause disease
What is the term “cidal” mean?
a disinfectant must be capable of killing pathogens while in contact with them (so they dont grow when removed)
What is the term “static” mean?
it arrests growth, but may be able to multiply when removed
T/F:
the choice of disinfectant for a particular purpose is influenced by the type of microbial contamination
TRUE
What are the factors of choosing a disinfectant?
- exposure time
- germicide concentration
- temperature and pH for optimal activity
- concentration of present microorganisms
- toxicity of the agen for skin
What are the 4 chemical agents used in the evaluation of chemical antimicrobial agents?
- Lysol
- Dettol
- Iodine
- Scope (full strength)
Differentiate between “cidal” and “static” forms of antimicrobial?
Cidal - kills the bacteria
Static - surpress the growth
Differentiate between antiseptic and disinfectant.
Antiseptic - used on skin
Disinfectant - used on non living things
How might the physical differences between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria contribute to differences in chemical resistance?
Gram positive - has a thicker peptidoglycan, more resistant
Gram negative - has a thin peptidoglycan and easy to dissolve outermembrane
