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Perceptions of cadaveric dissection in anatomy teaching
Saima Naz1, Ghazala Nazir, Samia Iram
1Northern Institute of Medical Sciences, Abbottabad, Pakistan. Saimasaad2010@yahoo.com
Journal of Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad : JAMC
|January 1, 2013
Summary
Many Pakistani medical students avoid cadaver dissection due to formaldehyde smell, ethical concerns, and low motivation, despite recognizing its learning value. This impacts anatomy education and practical skills development.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Anatomy
- Human Anatomy
Background:
- Medical educators observe declining student interest in cadaver dissection.
- This study investigates reasons for avoidance among Pakistani medical students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors contributing to medical students' reluctance to perform cadaver dissections.
- To understand the barriers to effective anatomy education through dissection.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based study was conducted in 5 Pakistani medical colleges.
- Over 500 first and second-year medical students, with at least 6 months of dissection experience, participated.
Main Results:
- 57% of students had never performed a cadaver dissection.
- Key reasons for avoidance included formaldehyde smell (45%), moral/ethical grounds (37%), low motivation (22%), anxiety (19.4%), and religious reasons (18.6%).
- Other factors included fear, health concerns (asthma), emotional reactions, chemical toxicity, laziness, and nightmares.
Conclusions:
- A significant majority of Pakistani medical students avoid dissection despite its recognized effectiveness for learning anatomy.
- Addressing student concerns regarding smell, ethics, and motivation is crucial for improving anatomy education.
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