Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

Which condition primarily occurs during the descent phase of aircraft travel?

1. Barodontalgia

2. Hypoxia

3. Barotitis media

4. Ear infection

The correct answer is: Barotitis media

During the descent phase of aircraft travel, barotitis media is the condition primarily experienced. This occurs due to the rapid changes in atmospheric pressure as the aircraft descends. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, can struggle to equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the outside environment. If the pressure in the ear is not equalized efficiently, it can lead to discomfort and potential fluid buildup in the middle ear, a hallmark of barotitis media. While hypoxia can occur at high altitudes during ascent due to decreased oxygen levels, it is generally less of a concern during descent, as the cabin is pressurized. Similarly, barodontalgia refers to dental pain or discomfort triggered by pressure changes, but it is not as directly related to descent as barotitis media. Ear infections are unrelated to the pressure changes experienced during flight and can occur independently of any altitude changes. Therefore, the nature of barotitis media closely ties it to the descent phase of aircraft travel, making it the most accurate answer.