Q4.i · Blood and Blood Products

Official V4 objective

Understand the pharmacology of blood and its components, including individual factor replacement.

Written examination

SAQ history

2 appearances

FFP vs PCC

2 exam appearances

2022B Q02

Compare and contrast fresh frozen plasma and prothrombin complex concentrate.

52%

2019A Q03

Compare and contrast fresh frozen plasma and prothrombin complex concentrate.

10%

Oral examination

4 stations

2024A · Day 2 · VIVA 7
This VIVA will examine haematological pharmacology. What are the steps involved in performing a group and screen?

Pass rate not reported
2023B · Day 3 · VIVA 4
This viva will examine haematological physiology and pharmacology. How is blood typed or grouped?

Pass rate not reported
2023A · Day 2 · VIVA 3
This VIVA will examine haematological physiology and pharmacology. How are packed red blood cells (PRBCs) prepared by the blood bank?

Pass rate not reported
2012B · VIVA 7
This Viva will examine knowledge of blood products and blood transfusion. How is blood processed after it is collected? Subsequent discussion focused on other aspects of transfusion such as additives in a bag of blood, blood components, blood groups, storage lesions and haemostatic agents, in particular tranexamic acid.

Pass rate not reported

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