Larynx and airway: decannulation: practice question

A ENT question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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ENT · Larynx and airway: decannulation

Sample item

Before removing a tracheostomy tube, what should the patient be able to do?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Tolerate capping of a small tube with the cuff deflated for 24 to 48 hours

Decannulation is attempted when the original airway problem has resolved. Stepwise downsizing, cuff deflation and capping trials for 24 to 48 hours confirm that the upper airway is adequate. The tube is then removed and the stoma closes spontaneously.

Option by option

  • A. Have stridor at rest

    Stridor at rest means the airway is not ready.

  • B. Tolerate only a cuffed inflated tube

    An inflated cuff would block the airway on capping.

  • C. Tolerate capping of a small tube with the cuff deflated for 24 to 48 hours (correct)

    Correct. A capping trial confirms upper airway patency.

  • D. Remain on a ventilator

    Ventilator dependence precludes removal.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More ENT questions

Questions about this ENT question

What is the answer to this ENT question?

The best answer is C, Tolerate capping of a small tube with the cuff deflated for 24 to 48 hours. Decannulation is attempted when the original airway problem has resolved.

Why is "Have stridor at rest" not the answer?

Stridor at rest means the airway is not ready.

Why is "Tolerate only a cuffed inflated tube" not the answer?

An inflated cuff would block the airway on capping.

Why is "Remain on a ventilator" not the answer?

Ventilator dependence precludes removal.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Larynx and airway: decannulation in ENT. Stepwise downsizing, cuff deflation and capping trials for 24 to 48 hours confirm that the upper airway is adequate. The tube is then removed and the stoma closes spontaneously.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Larynx and airway: decannulation?

Learn tuning fork results and audiogram patterns by sketching them. Then use the flashcards and the other ENT questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.