What term describes an infection control method that kills microorganisms?

The term that describes an infection control method that kills microorganisms is "bactericidal." This term specifically refers to agents or processes that are capable of destroying bacteria, thus preventing the spread of bacterial infection. Bactericides actively kill bacteria rather than merely inhibiting their growth.

In the context of infection control, understanding the distinction between bactericidal and other types of agents is critical. For instance, fungicides target fungi and virucides target viruses, while bacteriostatic agents only inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria but do not kill them outright. Therefore, when specifically referring to methods that result in the elimination of microorganisms, bactericidal is the most appropriate term. This clarity is essential for selecting appropriate infection control measures in healthcare settings to ensure patient safety and effective disease management.