A Multi-centered Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of the De-adoption of Oral Chlorhexidine Prophylaxis and Implementation of an Oral Care Bundle for Ventilated Critically Ill Patients

Infrequent or ineffective oral care can lead to mouth discomfort and lung infection for patients treated with ventilators (breathing machines) in intensive care units (ICUs). A commonly used mouthwash called chlorhexidine can reduce lung infection but most recent evidence shows it may increase the risk of death. In this study 6 participating intensive care units (ICUs) will de-adopt oral chlorhexidine and introduce a bundle of oral care practices using a multi-faceted educational tool kit. The investigators will measure changes in patient-oriented outcomes including mortality, ventilator-associated complications (VACs) and oral health status. A concurrent process evaluation will study how the intervention is delivered and received by patients and clinicians..