@onthewardsco: Syncope can feel like an overwhelming chief complaint because the differential is huge. The easiest place to start is by asking one question first: was this actually syncope? Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness caused by transient cerebral hypoperfusion, with rapid onset, short duration, and spontaneous recovery. Once you decide the episode is truly syncopal, organize the differential into 3 major buckets: reflex syncope, orthostatic hypotension, and cardiac syncope. But not every episode of transient loss of consciousness is syncope. Seizure, metabolic abnormalities, intoxication, psychogenic events, and other mimics may need to be considered depending on the history. Initial syncope evaluation centers on a careful history, physical exam including orthostatic vitals when appropriate, and ECG, with additional testing guided by the suspected cause rather than ordering everything routinely. Save this framework for your next ED shift, medicine rotation, or exam question when the chief complaint is “passed out.” #MedTok #medicine #medstudent #nursetok #np

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Sunday 20 September 2026 16:26:45 GMT