2018, Number 26
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Inv Ed Med 2018; 7 (26)
Exploring neurophobia in medical students in Mexico
Eraña Rojas IE, Segura-Azuara NÁ, López CMV
Language: Spanish
References: 17
Page: 63-70
PDF size: 310.60 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Neurophobia, or fear of neurology, means that medical students are unable to
effectively treat neurology patients.
Objective: The objective of this study is to measure the level of neurophobia in medical
students, using a self-evaluation scale, as well as their attitudes towards facing neurology
patients.
Method: A quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with a
sample of 131 students in a medical school in Mexico. A questionnaire was adapted into
eight items assessing the fear towards: complexity of neurosciences, clinical care of the
neurology patient, and lack of knowledge and procedure abilities.
Results: Statistical analysis included the internal consistency of the measurement tool and
descriptive statistical trends.
Conclusions: The results showed that students attributed this anxiety specifically to treating
patients with neurological illnesses, and to the complexity of the neurosciences.
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