Syllabus · Current · V5 (2025) · Obstetrics and Neonatal
P2 · Neonatal Anatomy and Physiology
P2.iv · Foetal Haemoglobin
Describe the structure, characteristics and function of foetal haemoglobin.
Written examination
SAQ history
Placental Function & Blood Flow
3 exam appearances
(a) Describe the functions of the placenta (80% of marks). (b) Outline utero-placental blood flow and its determinants (20% of marks).
34%
Describe the functions of the placenta (80% marks). Outline the determinants of placental blood flow (20% marks).
49%
Describe the functions of the placenta (80% of marks). Outline the determinants of placental blood flow (20% of marks).
32%
Oral examination
VIVA history
-
2012A · VIVA 3
This Viva will explore your understanding of the physiology of transition at birth. What is the normal haemoglobin saturation of a newborn breathing air? Subsequent questions explored knowledge of foetal haemoglobin oxygen dissociation curve, foetal/newborn circulation, changes at birth, normal values of newborn vital signs such as respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation.
Sources: objective text from the relevant CICM syllabus; historical SAQ and VIVA wording from CICM examiner reports.