Tilt testing for syncope.

Vasovagal syncope is a common cause of sudden collapse. It results from inappropriate activation of left ventricular mechanoreceptors causing sudden vasodilation with bradycardia. Tilt testing is an inexpensive and non-invasive way of establishing a vasovagal diagnosis in unexplained syncope. If critical care nurses improve their understanding of the pathophysiology of vasovagal syncope and the procedure of tilt testing, their care of syncopal patients will be enhanced. This literature review discusses the pathophysiology and clinical presentation of vasovagal syncope. The procedure of tilt testing is explained and the treatment of vasovagal syncope is briefly reviewed.