Antiseptic -- Agent applied to living tissue

Disinfectant -- Agent applied to inanimate surface

1. Chlorhexidine Gluconate, 4% wv - Hibitane^R, Solvahex^TM, Clenz 4 Chlorhexidine Acetate and Diacetate, 2%  - Nolvasan^R

1. Broadest spectrum

2. Better residual activity than iodophors

3. Occasional skin sensitivity (mucous membranes)

2. Iodophors Betadine^R, Duraprep^R

1. Excellent spectrum, contains iodine

2. Less residual activity than Chlorhexidine

3. Partially inactivated by organic debris

4. Occasional skin sensitivity

3. Isopropyl Alcohol 70% (or Ethyl Alcohol 90%)

1. Protein coagulant

2. Degreases skin

3. Ineffective against spores

4. Hexachlorophene Phisohex^R (no longer recommended)

1. Very potent against Gram positive bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus)

2. Poor effect against enteric bacteria (Gram negative)

3. Inactivated by organic debris and alcohol

4. Long residual action