FRCA Notes


Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus appears frequently in both core and intermediate curricula, hence this section acts as something of a launchpad for all things diabetes-related.

An SAQ on the topic from 2019 (72% pass rate) saw candidates lose marks on perioperative glucose monitoring and management of oral hypoglycaemic agents.

A repeat CRQ in 2023 (80% pass rate) was 'well answered' overall although the 'choice of fluids to accompany an insulin infusion' was not widely appreciated.


Final FRCA

Primary FRCA

  • Physiology
    • Insulin physiology
    • Diabetes mellitus as a disease
    • Renal glucose handling

  • Pharmacology: Drugs used in the management of diabetes mellitus

  • Equipment: Glucometers and ketone-meters