Syncope
David J. Schoenwetter
Search for more papers by this authorDavid J. Schoenwetter
Search for more papers by this authorDavid C. Cone MD
Professor of Emergency Medicine
Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
Search for more papers by this authorJane H. Brice MD, MPH
Professor of Emergency Medicine
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorTheodore R. Delbridge MD, MPH
Executive Director
Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems, Baltimore, Maryland
Search for more papers by this authorJ. Brent Myers MD, MPH
Chief Medical Officer ESO Associate Medical Director
Wake County EMS, Raleigh, North Carolina
Search for more papers by this authorSummary
Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness with spontaneous return to the patient's baseline mental status. Although the exact etiology of syncope is frequently not ascertained, careful history and physical examination can determine the cause for the majority of those patients that can be diagnosed. Certain diagnoses, especially cardiac dysrhythmias, can be potentially life-threatening and require proper evaluation and observation. Safe disposition of the patient requires a careful evaluation in the prehospital setting and appropriate explanation to those who frequently have no symptoms at time of evaluation.
References
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