The data was collected by one trained project officer at each hospital, working eight-hour shifts with a rotating schedule between day, evening and night shifts. Data from patients admitted outside of the shift hours was collected retrospectively within days of arrival to hospital. The patients were followed until discharge, death or to a maximum of 30 days. If discharged, the patients were considered to be alive at 30 days. There was no follow-up after patient discharge or after the 30 days.