Categorizing Germicidal Based on Their Chemical Groups Essay

Chapter 11 Summary

This chapter covers different chemicals that are used to kill pathogens. It starts by categorizing germicidal based on their chemical groups. The first agent is chlorine, which is a halogen. It is in liquid or gaseous form and slowly destroys endospores and other microbes. When mixed with water, chlorine produces hypochlorous acid, which denatures enzymes completely, stopping metabolic reactions. Other uses of chlorine include disinfecting drinking water, sterilizing equipment in medical facilities, and treating sewage. The efficacy of chlorine reduces when exposed to alkaline pH or light. The second halogen is iodine, which is in the form of a solution. Iodide destroys endospores and other microbes slowly. It penetrates the cells of organisms, interfering with various metabolic reactions. When combined with other compounds, iodine has several uses. For instance, Sodium iodide works as a topic antiseptic, while potassium iodide is used to disinfect plastic and to cut blades. An adverse effect of iodine involves irritating the skin. Categorizing Germicidal Based on Their Chemical Groups Essay

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In addition to halogens, other agents include phenol, Chlorhexidine, and alcohol. Phenol effectively kills some microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses. This agent is mainly used as a disinfectant. However, the toxicity of most phenolics limits them from being used as a disinfectant. Chlorhexidine consists of two phenolic rings and chlorine. It destroys microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses, affecting them differently. Its working mechanism involves denaturing bacterial membranes. Its rapid action and low toxicity make the agent an effective hand scrub. Alcohol kills most viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Alcohol that consists of ethyl and isopropyl is an effective antimicrobial control. Alcohols with 50% and above concentration dissolve membrane lipids, compromising their integrity. About 70% to 95% of solutions are used in skin degerming due to their efficacy in removing microbes, oil, and soil from the skin. Evaporation reduces its efficacy, and it affects the nervous system negatively when inhaled. Categorizing Germicidal Based on Their Chemical Groups Essay Oxidizing agents are also discussed in this chapter. The most common oxidizing agent is hydrogen peroxide, which decomposes into oxygen gas and water when exposed to light. Oxygen’s direct and indirect actions contribute to hydrogen peroxide’s germicidal effects. Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic used in wound and skin cleansing, mouth washing, and bedsore care. As a vapor, hydrogen peroxide is used as a sterilant in enclosed regions. Detergents that work on surfaces, including soap, are also captured in this chapter. The germicidal value of soap increases when mixed with agents, including iodine and Chlorhexidine.

This chapter also discusses heavy metal compounds, including mercury, silver, gold, zinc, and copper, and their use as microbial control. Only compounds with mercury and silver have a significantly high value as germicides. However, a small concentration of some metals, such as zinc or iron, is needed to act as enzyme cofactors. Organic or inorganic metallic salts are present in heavy metal germicides. These metallic salts are in different forms, including soaps, ointments, and tinctures. Heavy metals and their compounds have various uses. For instance, Silver nitrate is used to prevent gonococcal infections, which affect the eyes of newborns exposed to a birth canal with infections. Additionally, 1 to 2% of Silver nitrate is used as a topical germicide for managing mouth ulcers. Furthermore, Silver sulphadiazine ointment is added to the dressing to prevent potential infections. Lastly, colloidal preparations of silver are used to rinse various body parts, including the nose, mouth, or vagina. Categorizing Germicidal Based on Their Chemical Groups Essay