Certified Transport Registered Nurse Certification Practice Exam

During which phase of an airplane's journey is "airplane ear" most likely to occur?

1. Climb

2. Level flight

3. Descent

4. Takeoff

The correct answer is: Descent

"Airplane ear," medically known as barotitis media, commonly occurs during the descent phase of an airplane's journey. This phenomenon is primarily caused by a difference in pressure between the ambient air and the pressure in the middle ear. During descent, the pressure in the cabin increases, which can lead to challenges in equalizing the pressure in the middle ear. The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, attempts to adjust for this pressure difference. If the tube is not able to open properly due to factors such as allergies, congestion, or anatomy, it can result in discomfort or pain, which characterizes airplane ear. While changes in pressure also occur during takeoff, the rapid descent and the need for the body to equalize pressure is more pronounced and often causes discomfort to passengers. Therefore, the most significant risk for experiencing airplane ear arises during the descent phase.