Primary outcome
VAE, infection
INFECTION, DISEASE
The primary outcome was VAE rate as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions [Data were collected on VAEs by an assigned and trained respiratory therapist, nurse or infection control practitioner in each of the participating ICUs. The number of VAEs, including VAC, IVAC, and PVAP, was reported as a monthly aggregate. Outcome data were audited by a designated team, and inconsistencies and discrepancies were reviewed and resolved. VAE data were collected manually and then entered to the electronic data platform at the end of each month by all participating units. Range and sense checks were performed on all variables before commencing statistical analyses.