Syncope in the Ophthalmology Outpatient Department

Abstract

Introduction: Syncope is a clinical symptom that occurs commonly in all medical facilities, including the ophthalmology outpatient department. A broad differential diagnosis exists for syncope, of which vasovagal syncope is the most common.

Results: Efficient recognition and management of syncope in the ophthalmology department is essential to minimise its economic and time cost to patients, staff and the healthcare system.

Conclusions: We propose a three-step approach to managing syncope for ophthalmology staff consisting of risk factor identification, preventative strategies and appropriate initial management to triage patients effectively and efficiently with minimal disruption to workflow in this inherently busy environment.

Keywords: Economics; ophthalmology; outcomes; syncope.