What role do antiseptics play in healthcare settings?

Antiseptics play a crucial role in healthcare settings by reducing the likelihood of infection. They achieve this by inhibiting microbial growth on living tissues, such as skin and mucous membranes. This is particularly important in preventing infections when performing medical procedures, before surgeries, or in wound care. Antiseptics are formulated to be safe for use on biological tissues, which distinguishes them from disinfectants that are intended for inanimate objects and surfaces.

The other choices do not accurately represent the function of antiseptics. For instance, antiseptics do not sterilize surgical tools, as this process requires more stringent protocols and chemical agents. Moreover, while antiseptics may be used to help manage infections, they are intended for preventative measures rather than treatment after infection has occurred. Lastly, antiseptics are not restricted to use on surfaces, as their primary function is related to treating living tissues. Hence, the role of antiseptics in healthcare is fundamentally about preventing infection by controlling microbial growth on the body's surfaces.