Edexcel IGCSE Practice Test 2026: Changes in Medicine 1845-1945

The use of antiseptics in surgical practices during the 19th century significantly transformed the landscape of surgery and patient care. Before antiseptics were widely adopted, surgeries often led to high rates of infection and subsequent morbidity and mortality. The introduction of antiseptic methods, primarily advocated by Joseph Lister, marked a revolutionary approach to surgery.

By using antiseptics, such as carbolic acid, surgeons were able to reduce the presence of harmful bacteria during surgical procedures. This advancement meant that wounds were less likely to become infected post-operatively, leading to a lower incidence of complications and a higher survival rate among patients. Improved hygienic practices changed the perception of surgery from a high-risk endeavor to a more routine and safer procedure.

Consequently, antiseptic techniques not only enhanced the success rates of various procedures but also encouraged the public's trust in surgical interventions. This fostered the development of more complex and extensive surgical methods, further advancing medical practice. Thus, the correct response highlights the profound impact antiseptics had on improving patient outcomes and reducing infection rates during this pivotal period in medical history.