Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Nervous System including autonomic and pain
H3 · Autonomic Nervous System Anatomy and Physiology
H3.ii · Autonomic Receptors
Describe the receptors of the autonomic nervous system including their subtypes and their pre- or post- ganglionic location and function.
Written examination
SAQ history
Autonomic Physiology — Parasympathetic System
3 exam appearances
Outline the physiology of the parasympathetic nervous system using the following headings: (a) the anatomical origins and target organ(s) (45% of marks). Responses of the organ(s) are NOT required. (b) nerve fiber classification and characteristics (20% of marks) (c) receptor types, locations and neurotransmitters (35% of marks
61%
Autonomic Physiology — Sympathetic Anatomy
4 exam appearances
Outline the anatomy of the sympathetic nervous system including: (i) The origin (15% of marks). (ii) Fibre types and their course (70% of marks). (iii) Receptors and neurotransmitters (15% of marks).
54%
Describe the anatomy (70% marks) and effects (30% marks) of the sympathetic nervous system.
51%
Autonomic Physiology — Sympathetic vs Parasympathetic
1 exam appearance
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2023A · Day 2 · VIVA 4
This VIVA will examine adrenergic and steroid pharmacology. Describe the beta-adrenergic receptors and how signal transduction occurs?
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2019B · Day 1 · VIVA 1
This viva will test your knowledge of the autonomic nervous system. Briefly describe the autonomic nervous system using the diagram. (Image removed from report.)
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2018A · Day 2 · VIVA 8
This viva will examine adreno-receptors, second messengers and calcium. Classify adreno-receptors and their secondary messenger systems.
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2016B · Day 1 · VIVA 2
This viva tested knowledge related to cholinergic receptors. The pharmacology of Atropine was specifically discussed. The second part of the viva discussed the pharmacology of propofol including rationale for its use in ICU, contents of the ampoule and adverse effects.
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2011B · VIVA 1
This Viva will examine your knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the coronary circulation. Q 1. Describe the anatomy of the coronary circulation. Subsequent questions explored knowledge of factors that affect coronary artery blood flow (including diagrams), and physiology of beta-receptors.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.