Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CIS Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct choice is antiseptic, which is specifically designed for application on living tissues to inhibit bacterial growth. Antiseptics are crucial in medical settings as they help reduce the risk of infections during surgeries, wounds, and other procedures by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. They are typically formulated to be safe for temporary use on skin and mucous membranes.

In contrast, disinfectants are primarily used on non-living surfaces to kill bacteria and other pathogens. They are often too harsh for living tissue and can cause irritation or damage. Sterilants are substances that eliminate all forms of microbial life, including spores, and are typically used for instruments and equipment rather than directly on tissues. Cleaners are products designed to remove dirt and impurities but do not necessarily have antimicrobial properties.

Therefore, antiseptics are the appropriate choice when it comes to inhibiting bacterial growth specifically on living tissues.