Phenylephrine Reflex Bradycardia — FRCA Final MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: E — Baroreceptor-mediated reflex bradycardia
Phenylephrine (pure alpha-1 agonist) increases SVR/MAP → activates carotid baroreceptor reflex → increased vagal tone → reflex bradycardia. Physiological response, not direct cardiac effect. With spinal sympathetic blockade, the reflex can be pronounced.
Reference: BJA Education – 2023 – Vasopressors in obstetric anaesthesia