Here are the practice questions from today’s written exam practice session led by Chris Nickson at The Alfred ICU, with recommended quick reference resources (but don’t forget to study the recommended texts!):
Q1.
- Explain the principles underlying acid-base chemistry (50%)
- Describe the measurement of pH in blood using a pH electrode (50%)
Learn more here:
- LITFL Part One — Principles of acid-base physiology: http://www.partone.lifeinthefastlane.com/principles-of-acid-base-physiology.html
- LITFL Part One — Blood gas analysis: http://www.partone.lifeinthefastlane.com/blood_gases.html
- Acid-Base Physiology — The measurement of pH: https://www.anaesthesiamcq.com/AcidBaseBook/ab1_4.php
Q2.
Describe the chemistry of buffer mechanisms and explain their relevant roles in the body.
Learn more here:
- LITFL Part One — Buffers: http://www.partone.lifeinthefastlane.com/buffers.html
- Acid-Base Physiology — 2.2. Buffering: https://www.anaesthesiamcq.com/AcidBaseBook/ab2_2.php
Q3. (from CICM Second Part exam 2014.1 Q24)
- Briefly explain the concept of the quantitative approach (Stewart’s approach) to acid-base analysis. (50%)
- How does the quantitative approach classify acid-base disturbances? (50%)
Learn more here:
- LITFL CCC — Strong Ion Difference and Stewart’s physicochemical approach to acid-base chemistry: https://lifeinthefastlane.com/ccc/strong-ion-difference/
CICM First Part Exam Syllabus
- J1: Acid Base Physiology
- J2: Acid Base Measurement
You can access all the previous practice questions since 2015 here:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1r8JTbV6lEzMg7I0R5fCwPMaIY3elNobgcQy-bCt7F4M/edit?usp=sharing
See this link on INTENSIVE for exam resources:
https://intensiveblog.com/resources/#3