D4.i · Systemic Blood Pressure Regulation

Official V5 objective

Explain the factors that determine systemic blood pressure and its regulation.

3 SAQ topics 4 SAQ appearances 2 VIVA stations

Written examination

SAQ history

4 appearances

Baroreceptor Reflex

2 exam appearances

2014B Q16

Describe baroreceptors and their role in the control of blood pressure.

62%

2007B Q08

Explain the role of the baroreceptors in the control of blood pressure.

71%

Systemic Blood Pressure (SBP)

1 exam appearance

2025A Q03

(a) Define systemic blood pressure and provide a formula that best describes its determinants (10% of marks). (b) Describe the factors that determine systemic blood pressure (90% of marks).

30%

Renal & Adrenal Endocrinology — RAAS

1 exam appearance

2011B Q06

Describe the physiology of the Renin and Angiotensin system.

60%

Oral examination

VIVA history

2 stations

2017A · Day 1 · VIVA 3
This viva will examine myocardial performance, lusitropy and blood pressure regulation. How is blood pressure regulated acutely?

91% successful
2015B · VIVA 1
This Viva tested the candidates understanding of the immediate and delayed response to a modest amount of blood loss (approx 10% blood volume). Candidates were expected to describe the volume receptors, barorecepetors and renin-angiotensin system. The viva went on to consider the mechanism amd limitations of automated non-invasive blood pressure (DINAMAP) and coronary artery blood flow and its regulation.

Pass rate not reported

Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.