The aim of this feasibility randomized controlled trial (fRCT) is to assess the practicality and impact of using single-use versus multiple-use endotracheal suction catheters flushed with chlorhexidine on the incidence of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) in mechanically ventilated patients.

The study is expected to provide crucial insights into the feasibility of a larger definitive trial and offers valuable data on the effectiveness and acceptability of the interventions in resource-limited ICU settings, potentially informing future clinical practices.

The trial involves three groups. One group includes endotracheal suctioning using a single-use catheter; the second group includes a multiple-use endotracheal suction catheter flushed with chlorhexidine and the control group includes a multiple-use endotracheal suction catheter flushed with normal saline.

This study is a three-armed fRCT with an embedded qualitative study.

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