Efficacy of Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) exercise on level of dysphagia among post-extubated patients in selected ICU of a tertiary care hospital, Bhubaneswar- a Randomized Controlled Trial

This randomised controlled pre-test post-test study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) exercise on the level of dysphagia among post-extubated ICU patients in a tertiary care hospital in Bhubaneswar. A total of 60 participants (30 intervention, 30 control) will be included based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The intervention group will perform CTAR exercises using a 12.5 cm towel roll for 5 sets, thrice daily for 7 days, while the control group will receive routine dysphagia care. Swallowing ability will be assessed using standardised tools before and after the intervention. Computerised randomisation and single blinding will be used to reduce bias, and allocation will be concealed using opaque methods. Data will be analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including paired and unpaired t-tests. The study is expected to demonstrate a significant improvement in swallowing function among patients receiving CTAR exercises. As a safe, simple, and affordable bedside intervention, CTAR may help accelerate oral intake recovery and reduce dysphagia-related complications in post-extubated ICU patients.