During endotracheal intubation, what is the primary purpose of using a stylet?

• A. To measure cuff pressure.
• B. To shape the endotracheal tube and maintain an anterior curve that facilitates passage through the vocal cords.
• C. To secure the tube to the face.
• D. To verify tube placement with capnography.

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of using a stylet during endotracheal intubation is to shape and stiffen the endotracheal tube so it can be steered smoothly through the vocal cords. By adding an anterior-curving bend and providing controlled stiffness, the tube tracks toward the glottic opening more predictably, making advancement through the cords easier and reducing the force needed. This is especially helpful when anatomy or limited mouth opening makes passage tricky. After the tube is in place, the stylet is typically removed and the tube secured and cuffed as usual.

Cuff pressure measurement, securing the tube to the face, and verifying placement with capnography are done with other tools and steps, not the stylet.