What is meant by the term antisepsis?

Antisepsis refers to the process of preventing infection by inhibiting the growth of pathogens. This is typically achieved through the application of antiseptic agents that reduce or eliminate the presence of microorganisms on living tissue. Unlike sterilization, which completely eliminates all forms of microbial life, antisepsis focuses specifically on the control of pathogenic organisms to minimize the risk of infection, making it critical in settings like healthcare, where maintaining aseptic conditions is vital for patient safety.

The significance of this process lies in its application to skin disinfection before surgical procedures, wound care, and various medical interventions, where preventing infection is essential for promoting healing and avoiding complications.