Factors Shaping Medical Students' Intentions Toward Neurosurgery: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Autor:	Almalki SF; Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Almousa AS; Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Alarfaj AK; Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Alwadany MM; Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Al Wadani AF; Department of Neurosurgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Ibrahim Daoud MY; Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU., Zakaria OM; Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, SAU.
Jazyk:	angličtina
Zdroj:	Cureus [Cureus] 2023 Dec 26; Vol. 15 (12), pp. e51107. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Dec 26 (Print Publication: 2023).
DOI:	10.7759/cureus.51107
Abstrakt:	Background Choosing a medical specialty poses a significant challenge for students, with initial fascinations often evolving during their academic journey. Despite its inherent appeal, neurosurgery faces hesitancy among undergraduate students, potentially due to perceived difficulties and time demands. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing medical students' intentions toward neurosurgery at two institutions in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. Methodology A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing a validated, anonymous questionnaire distributed electronically to medical students and interns in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire comprised two sections, namely, demographic and academic profiles, and participants' intentions, knowledge, and attitudes toward neurosurgery. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, and chi-square tests to explore relationships and identify significant predictors. Results Of the participants, 197 (34.1%) expressed interest in neurosurgery, but only 94 (16.3%) had a comprehensive understanding of the field. Motivations included high income, specialty prestige, and positive impact on patients, while stress and work-life balance were common deterring factors. Age and academic years were associated with a gradual decrease in interest, except for initial medical school students. Participants were attracted to innovative technological aspects, while high competition and neurophobia were deterring factors. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive analysis of determinants influencing medical students' and interns' interest in neurosurgery. Early exposure, clinical training, and personal motivations play significant roles in shaping career preferences. Challenges, such as perceived difficulties and concerns related to work-life balance, need targeted interventions to enhance neurosurgery's attractiveness. Considerations extend beyond technical and academic facets to encompass personal and lifestyle dimensions. Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. (Copyright © 2023, Almalki et al.)
Databáze:	MEDLINE
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