This study evaluates how sampling size and swabbing techniques influence the recovery of pathogens from environmental surfaces in healthcare settings. Stainless steel surfaces were inoculated with bacterial strains, and sampling was done using both individual and pooled methods across 10x10, 5x5, and 2x2 cm areas. Results showed that larger surfaces and pooled sampling increased recovery efficiency. Metagenomic analysis using Oxford Nanopore sequencing enabled rapid and high-resolution identification of bacterial species and antimicrobial resistance markers. Findings support integrating culture-based and sequencing approaches to improve infection control protocols. The study highlights the need for standardized surface sampling strategies in healthcare environments.