Efficacy outcomes
VFD
SECONDARY
The primary outcome was ventilator-free days (VFD), defined as days alive and not requiring mechanical ventilation during a 28-day period, chosen to avoid the competing risk of mortality [Additional secondary outcomes included neuropsychological and quality of life metrics obtained at in-person long-term follow-up. Study personnel obtained a baseline neuropsychological evaluation at hospital discharge using the Rancho Los Amigos level of cognitive functioning scale [