Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 15, 2026

Author Spotlight: Evaluating Clinicians' Adoption of Ultrasound-Guided Vascular Cannulation Through Simulation Training
Published on: August 9, 2024
Understanding uncertainty and ambiguity in medicine and medical education: a narrative review with implications for
Sarine Sarkis1, Christian Raphael1
1Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh-Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon.
Abstract:
Medical students face significant challenges, including managing uncertainty, impacting their education and careers. Effective doctors prioritize patient care, competence, relationships, and integrity, yet students frequently struggle emotionally and idealistically, especially during preclinical years. Clinical rotations expose the inherent uncertainty in medicine, requiring students to develop contextual, sufficient knowledge. Uncertainty arises from knowledge gaps, complex systems, ambiguous scenarios, emotional challenges, negative role models, and unclear team roles, often causing psychological distress. Differentiating between ambiguity (unclear answers) and uncertainty (individual responses) is essential. Medical education should cultivate traits such as curiosity, courage, empathy, and tolerance for ambiguity, which can be fostered through medical humanities and simulation-based learning. Emphasizing reflection, peer support, and addressing the hidden curriculum are vital strategies. Enhancing professional development and mentorship tailored to students' needs can better equip future doctors, making embracing uncertainty integral to their professional growth and resilience in medical practice.
Related Concept Videos
Uncertainty: Overview
Propagation of Uncertainty from Random Error
Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
Errors occurring during blood pressure monitoring
Several factors...
Ethical Issues
Ethical Concerns in Healthcare:
Patient-centered Care

