Incidence of and risk factors for nodding off at scientific sessions.
We conducted a surreptitious, prospective, cohort study to explore how often physicians nod off during scientific meetings and to examine risk factors for nodding off. After counting the number of heads falling forward during 2 days of lectures, we calculated the incidence density curves for nodding-off episodes per lecture (NOELs) and assessed risk factors using logistic regression analysis. In this article we report our eye-opening results and suggest ways speakers can try to avoid losing their audience.
Rockwood
Kenneth
K
Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS.
Hogan
David B
DB
Patterson
Christopher J
CJ
D001887:Boredom; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D006801:Humans; D010820:Physicians; D012890:Sleep; D014925:Wit and Humor as Topic