The CDC just released new guidelines on prevention of cross infections. Although the numbers are decreasing, there are still 200 deaths daily across the USA due to hospital infections.
To help prevent these infecitons, the CDC issued new guidelines for hospitals and also some tips for patients. read the press release here:
Despite Progress, Ongoing Efforts Needed to Combat Infections Impacting Hospital Patients
The full guidelines - divided in to specific guidelines for each procedure:
Top CDC Recommendations to Prevent Healthcare-Associated Infections
and the tips for patients are right here:
p0326-hospital-patients.pdf (326570)
(source: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2014/images/p0326-hospital-patients.pdf)