CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Where is an Endotracheal Tube (ETT) located?

1. At the level of the cricoid cartilage

2. 5cm above the carina

3. At the thoracic inlet

4. At the level of the vocal cords

The correct answer is: 5cm above the carina

An Endotracheal Tube (ETT) is generally placed approximately 5 centimeters above the carina, which is located at the point where the trachea divides into the left and right bronchi. This positioning is critical because placing the tube too far down can result in right mainstem intubation, where the tube inadvertently enters the right bronchus instead of resting within the trachea, leading to ventilation issues in the left lung. Conversely, if the tube is positioned too high, it may not effectively secure the airway or could disrupt proper ventilation. The rationale for the other options revolves around the anatomy of the airway. The cricoid cartilage is a landmark that is located below the level of the vocal cords and is not the correct location for the ETT. The thoracic inlet is too high and not specific enough for ETT placement. Positioning at the level of the vocal cords, while relevant during intubation (where the tube must pass through the vocal cords), is not ideal for the final resting place of the tube. The clear and standard practice of placing the ETT approximately 5 cm above the carina is well established and helps ensure safe and effective airway management.