Final answer:
The purpose of hand antiseptic is to lower the number of pathogens on the skin, not to completely eliminate handwashing or the use of gloves. It's part of an effective strategy to prevent the spread of infections, particularly when soap and water are unavailable.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of hand antiseptic is C. Lower the number of pathogens on the skin. Hand antiseptics, like hand sanitizers, are designed to reduce the microbial load on the skin, particularly in situations where soap and water may not be readily available. Hand antiseptics should not replace handwashing but serve as a complement when traditional washing is not possible.
Excessive use of antimicrobial soap can potentially increase the risk of infection. This occurs because it can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. As bacteria are exposed to antimicrobial agents like triclosan, they may develop resistance, making them harder to kill with antibiotics.
Proper handwashing is vital as it is considered the most effective behavior to avoid infection by pathogens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water to prevent the spread of diseases, including respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses.
Overall, both hand antiseptics and regular soap and water play important roles in preventing the spread of pathogens. Washing your hands with soap and water is generally the best choice, especially in preventing the spread of viruses like COVID-19. When soap and water are not available, hand antiseptics are a good option to reduce the number of germs on the hands.