What is a benefit of ethanol as a lock solution for catheters?

• A. It acts as a strong anticoagulant
• B. It is ineffective against biofilms
• C. There is no known microbial resistance
• D. It increases fibrin deposition in the catheter lumen

Answer: (C)

Ethanol locks provide antimicrobial activity with a low potential for resistance development. Its action is rapid and nonspecific, denaturing proteins and disrupting lipid membranes across many microbes, which makes it difficult for organisms to adapt and develop resistance. This quality is the key benefit when using ethanol as a catheter lock, especially in the context of preventing biofilm-associated infections.