Approach to syncope in the era of medical technology

Syncope is a common medical condition that continues to challenge residents and specialists. It is responsible for 6% of general medical admissions and imposes a financial burden for unnecessary tests up to $16,000 per patient. Because of its disabling potential and lack of a "gold standard" test, syncope often leads to multiple hospital admissions and to the performance of many tests thought to be useful in diagnosis. Our survey consisted of a series of medical questions aimed at assessing the medical knowledge among nurses, residents and cardiologists. Despite the frequency of syncope, our survey showed a lack of medical knowledge among nurses, residents and cardiologists. It is hoped that improving medical knowledge will allow appropriate tailoring of the workup for syncope and reduce the cost of admissions to the hospital for this condition.