Figure 3.

Ranking of desirability of the outcome of 4 representative patients (P1–P4) according to the chosen primary endpoint. Patient outcomes were ranked from most desirable (first position of the podium) to least desirable (third position of the podium or even outside the podium). Classical composite endpoint: no hierarchy between components (all-cause mortality [ACM] at day 28, MV-free day from diagnosis to day 28, and clinical cure within 7–10 days of study initiation); the earliest event goes first. Hierarchical composite endpoint: ACM at day 28 is first assessed. Then, MV-free day from diagnosis to day 28 is assessed, and finally, clinical cure within 7–10 days of study initiation. Abbreviation: MV, mechanical ventilation.