Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2026

Tilt Testing with Combined Lower Body Negative Pressure: a "Gold Standard" for Measuring Orthostatic Tolerance
Published on: March 21, 2013
Understanding syncope. The pathophysiology & assessment of a challenging condition that EMS crews frequently
1St. Clair Hospital, Pittsburgh, USA.
Abstract:
Syncope is a transient loss of postural tone and consciousness following which, by definition, the patient has a spontaneous recovery without intervention. The differential diagnosis of syncope is broad and spans benign to life-threatening conditions. Identifying and treating serious conditions that may mimic syncope and identifying patients at high risk (cardiac syncope) are challenges that face prehospital providers. A comprehensive history and physical provide the most useful information in making these distinctions. Syncope is a symptom, not a disease; therefore, treatment must be targeted to the underlying disease process.
Related Concept Videos
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation IV: Pharmacological Management
Dysrhythmias VII: Nursing Management of Dysrhythmias
Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Dysrhythmias V: Evaluating Dysrhythmias