Research into the efficacy of UV lighting has shown that the bacteria responsible for Clostridium difficile infections, Staphylococcus infections and many others can be killed on surfaces in hospital rooms in less than 10 minutes with the proper technology. This includes bacteria known to be resistant to antibiotics. 

Targeting bacteria in the gut may be key to preventing infection. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE in July reported that patients with burns and other traumatic injuries experience drastic Antimicrobial surfaces gain a presence in healthcare facilities. Antimicrobial agents, which mitigate the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, may alter the landscape of disinfection for healthcare facilities. 

Some materials, such as copper, have antimicrobial properties on their own, making them increasingly popular choices for use in facility surfaces. Other antimicrobial agents manufactured as coats are applied to existing surfaces, protecting them from transferring bacteria to certain extents.