How should antiseptics be used in wound care?

The use of antiseptics in wound care should be approached with caution, which is why the emphasis on using them sparingly is crucial. Antiseptics serve to reduce or eliminate pathogens in a wound, thereby preventing infection. However, overuse or improper application can lead to adverse effects, such as irritation or damage to healthy cells surrounding the wound. This can impair the healing process, as healthy tissue is essential for effective wound repair. Therefore, while antiseptics are valuable in preventing infection, they should be applied judiciously to minimize the risk of harming the very tissue that is vital for recovery.

The other options fail to consider this balance. Ointments should not be overused, as that can lead to complications rather than providing the intended benefit. Additionally, antiseptics should not be limited to open wounds only; they can play a role in managing risk for various types of wounds. Finally, using them only after a wound has healed does not address the need for infection prevention during the healing process.