What is the function of phenol in antiseptic use?

Phenol is a well-known antiseptic that serves multiple functions in the realm of infection control and hygiene. Its primary function is to act as a disinfectant, effectively controlling disease organisms by killing or inhibiting their growth. This property makes phenol particularly valuable in medical settings where the prevention of infection is paramount.

In clinical practice, phenol can be used on living tissues, although care must be taken due to its potential irritative properties. Its effectiveness is not limited to nonliving surfaces; rather, it can be utilized in various scenarios, including in surgical preparations and on the skin, albeit in diluted forms. While phenol does have considerable efficacy against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, it is not restricted to targeting viruses or bacteria exclusively—rather, it can work on a wide range of pathogens.

Considering these factors, phenol's role in controlling disease organisms adequately captures its multifaceted application in antiseptic use.