A brief loss of consciousness can have very different causes. The challenge is recognizing who needs urgent assessment and who can safely follow a lower-risk pathway.

In Episode 3 of The Clinical Next Step, we approach syncope through practical Canadian clinical reasoning for MCCQE preparation, connecting the history, examination and ECG to the next clinical decision.

Topics covered: • Initial assessment and recognition of instability • Distinguishing syncope from other causes of transient loss of consciousness • Reflex, orthostatic and cardiac causes • Red flags in the history, examination and ECG • Choosing targeted investigations and rhythm monitoring • Disposition, follow-up and patient counselling

Recognize the pattern. Find the danger. Choose the next step.

The Clinical Next Step is an independent educational podcast ...