http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22481152

Fam Med. 2012 Apr;44(4):240-6.

Tolerance of Uncertainty and Fears of Making Mistakes Among Fifth-year Medical Students.

Nevalainen M, Kuikka L, Sjoberg L, Eriksson J, Pitkala K.

Source

Department of General Practice, University of Helsinki, and Unit of General Practice, Helsinki University Central Hospital.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Tolerance of uncertainty is an important skill among general practitioners (GPs). Our aim was to study fifth-year medical students' feelings related to facing uncertainty and fears of making mistakes in medical decisions. Further, we studied the associations of intolerance of uncertainty with demographic factors, the students' fears of making mistakes, and their views of a GP's work prior to their ultimate course in general practice.

METHODS:

A questionnaire-based survey was carried out among the fifth-year medical students prior to their main course in general practice at the University of Helsinki. The questionnaire included demographic variables and inquired about their views of their own tolerance of uncertainty, fear of making mistakes, and of a GP's work overall.

RESULTS:

During the years 2008--2010, 307/359 medical students (mean age 25.7 years, 64% females) responded. Of the respondents, 22% felt they had difficulty tolerating uncertainty when making medical decisions. Females reported that they tolerated uncertainty poorly more often (27%) than did males (11%). Those tolerating uncertainty more poorly were more often afraid of making mistakes (100% versus 86%). This group more often considered a GP's work too difficult and challenging than did others.

CONCLUSIONS:

Poor self-reported tolerance of uncertainty among medical students is associated with considering a GP's work too challenging.