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Open Access 01-12-2023 | Septicemia | Original Article

Final-year medical students’ perspective: a survey on the use of computed tomography in sepsis

Authors: Julian Pohlan, Maria Isabel Opper Hernando, Roderic Waschinsky, Federico Biavati, Harm Peters, Samuel Knauss, Peter Richard Steinhagen, Kerstin Rubarth, Denis Witham, Marc Dewey

Published in: Insights into Imaging | Issue 1/2023

Abstract

Objectives

To determine the perspective of final-year medical students on the use of computed tomography (CT) in patients with sepsis.

Methods

A total of 207 questionnaires were distributed to final-year medical students at a large university medical center, and 113 returned questionnaires met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Questions referred to sepsis guidelines, CT indications, and the use of contrast agents. Control variables included a level of practical experience as a final-year student (trimester of student’s practical year) and previous radiological experience. Statistical hypothesis tests such as the Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test were performed.

Results

The majority of participating students, 85% (n = 91/107), considered a Systemic Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score ≥ 2 as a diagnostic criterion for sepsis. The presence of ≥ 2 positive systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria was considered relevant for diagnosing sepsis by 34% (n = 34/100). Ninety-nine percent (n = 64/65) of the participants who fully agreed with a SOFA score ≥ 2 being relevant for diagnosing sepsis would also use it as an indication for a CT scan. Seventy-six percent (n = 78/103) of the students rated a known severe allergic reaction to contrast agents as an absolute contraindication for its administration. Ninety-five percent (n = 78/82) considered radiation exposure as problematic in CT examinations, especially in repeat CTs.

Conclusion

Most final-year medical students were familiar with the sepsis criteria. Still, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT.

Critical relevance statement

More detailed knowledge of CT in septic patients should be implemented in the medical curriculum. Retraining of medical students could help increase student confidence potentially improving patient care.

Key points

1. Whereas the majority of final-year medical students were familiar with sepsis criteria, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria.

2. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit.

3. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT.

Graphical Abstract

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Final-year medical students’ perspective: a survey on the use of computed tomography in sepsis
Authors: Julian Pohlan
Maria Isabel Opper Hernando
Roderic Waschinsky
Federico Biavati
Harm Peters
Samuel Knauss
Peter Richard Steinhagen
Kerstin Rubarth
Denis Witham
Marc Dewey
Publication date: 01-12-2023
Publisher: Springer Vienna
Keywords: Septicemia
Septicemia
Computed Tomography
Computed Tomography
Published in: Insights into Imaging / Issue 1/2023
Electronic ISSN: 1869-4101
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13244-023-01538-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Final-year medical students’ perspective: a survey on the use of computed tomography in sepsis

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Critical relevance statement

Key points

Graphical Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Critical relevance statement

Key points

Graphical Abstract

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