Which of the following best describes an antiseptic?

An antiseptic is defined as a substance that is used to kill or inhibit the growth of pathogens while being safe for use on human tissues. This is particularly important in medical and healthcare settings, where the goal is to prevent infection without causing harm to the patient. Antiseptics are typically applied to skin or mucous membranes and can include solutions like alcohol, iodine, or chlorhexidine.

In contrast, a substance that destroys all microorganisms, including spores, is classified as a sterilant, and one that is harmful to human tissues does not meet the criteria for being classified as an antiseptic. Additionally, a substance that promotes the growth of spores would not fulfill the function or intent of an antiseptic, which is inherently aimed at infection control and safety. Thus, understanding the characteristics of antiseptics is essential for their effective and safe application in preventing infections.