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First cadaver dissection: stress, preparation, and emotional experience
1Service d'ORL et de Chirurgie Cervicofaciale, Hôpital Armand-Trousseau, 26, avenue du Dr-Arnold-Netter, 75012 Paris, France. nicolas.leboulanger@trs.aphp.fr
Summary
Medical students experienced minimal stress during their first cadaver dissection, with most feeling prepared despite initial psychological concerns. Improvements in preparation were suggested, and voluntary participation may have influenced the low stress levels observed.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Anatomy
- Psychology
Background:
- The initial cadaver dissection class is a significant event for medical students.
- Understanding student psychological preparation and stress is crucial for effective anatomy education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the psychological preparation and stress levels of medical students before, during, and after their first head and neck cadaver dissection.
- To identify student concerns and gather suggestions for improving the dissection experience.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 58 second-year medical students.
- Utilized State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) questionnaires and visual analog scales.
- Data collected immediately before, after, and one month post-dissection.
Main Results:
- Students reported low overall stress during their first dissection, with no significant gender differences in stress levels.
- Men reported feeling better psychologically prepared than women.
- Primary concerns included the smell and sight of the cadaver's face.
Conclusions:
- Despite feeling psychologically unprepared, most students felt ready and had a positive perception of the dissection experience.
- Voluntary participation may contribute to reduced stress.
- Students proposed inexpensive improvements for advance preparation.
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