A PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF EFFECT OF PRE-EXAMINATION STRESS ON PULSE RATE AND BLOOD PRESSURE OF FIRST YEAR UNDER GRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Introduction: The modern age has been called the age of anxiety. All things, events, conditions or situations that demand a change or adjustment in the physical and emotional functions are termed as stressors. Examination that is a specific stressor. Medical students are usually under stress due to a variety of reasons like vast curriculum, academic competition, examinations etc.
During these stressful situations there might be increase in anxiety level and sympathetic discharge. The study of Medicine is extensive, time-consuming and very stressful. In every fiveyears study period students are subjected to endless working hours, and exams add an extra stress quotient.
Materials and methods: The present study was carried out at Govt Medical College, Nandyal among the 1st MBBS students of 2022-2023 batch. 150 students participated in the study. Three months prior to the academic examination, the BP of the students were recorded using mercury sphygmomanometer in sitting position, Pulse rate by counting one minute during the practical class

i.e 2-4 p.m for the control. Then, one week prior to academic examination, the students were invited to come to the department in groups within four days during the practical class hour. After explaining the purpose of the study, height in centimeter, weight in kilogram, were recorded using standardized weighing machine and height measuring scale. The BP was again recorded using mercury sphygmomanometer and also the pulse rate.
Results: The mean age of the student was 20.52 ±1.013 yrs. Out of 100 students, 66.31 % were boys and 33.68 % were girls. The systolic blood pressure for all individual when there was no exam was 112.50±4.90 mmHg while during pre- examination, it rose to 120.07±11.70 mm Hg (P= < 0.0001). The diastolic blood pressure record when there was no exam was 72.19±3.60mm Hg, while near exam it was 71.5±6.61 mmHg with no significant difference for all the individuals. Conclusion: Majority of the undergraduate medical students were observed to be under stressed prior to examination. Stress produced a significant elevation in the systolic blood pressure as well as the pulse rate among the students. This alteration can be controlled by the systemic defense mechanism that are naturally present in our body. Students can be recommended relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, appropriate diet and physical exercises. Counseling sessions could be provided to overcome stress.