VASOVAGAL SYNCOPE: A STUMBLING BLOCK FOR MEDICAL STUDENTS ASPIRING TO BECOME SURGEONS

Abstract

Objective: The objective was to identify the trends of vasovagal syncope in medical students of the Shalamar Medical and Dental College and to determine the association of vasovagal syncope episode with surgical career choice among medical students.

Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out at Shalamar medical and dental college. Students of clinical years i.e., 3rd, 4th, and final year MBBS were invited to participate in the study.

Statistical analysis: Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 21 for Windows. Data is expressed as mean values, mean ± standard deviation, and frequency trends. The p-value is calculated using the chi- squared test. Two-sided p values <0.05 is considered statistically significant. Chi-square tests for comparison categorical variables is applied. Association is noted between independent variables. (Age and gender) with dependent variable (syncope episode) through application of chi square test of significance. Association of the syncope event with career choice is noted by application of chi square test.

Results: A total of 202 students took part in the study out of these a total of 50 (24.75%) students reported one or more episode of syncope. Gender and age have no statistically significant bearing on occurrence of syncope episodes. 67 students were influenced by presyncope or syncope event and decided to switch their choice of career path from surgery. Long periods of standing, smell of cautery, hot temperature, were among leading trigger factors.