Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Respiratory System
C8 · Applied Respiratory Physiology
C8.v · Humidification
Describe the humidification of inhaled air and its importance.
Written examination
SAQ history
Humidification
3 exam appearances
Outline the anatomy and physiology of humidification during normal breathing (50% of marks). Describe the mechanisms of humidification used within Intensive Care practice (50% of marks).
0%
Define the following terms (40% of marks)
a. Saturated Vapour Pressure of Water
b. Absolute Humidity
c. Relative Humidity
d. Latent heat of vaporisation Briefly outline how the humidity of air is altered during inspiration and expiration by the respiratory tract. (60% of marks)
20%
Define the following terms (40%)
a. Saturated Vapour Pressure of Water
b. Absolute Humidity
c. Relative Humidity
d. Latent heat of vaporisation Briefly outline how the humidity of air is altered during inspiration and expiration by the respiratory tract (60%)
11%
Oral examination
VIVA history
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2014B · VIVA 5
This Viva tested knowledge on obstetric and neonatal physiology. It explored the cardiovascular changes in pregnancy, factors that influence gas exchange across the placenta, the changes with the first breath and went on to aspects of humidity.
-
2014A · VIVA 6
This Viva tested knowledge on oxygen. It explored an understanding of the physiological effects of oxygen, measurement of oxygen and principles around humidity.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.