ABSTRACT
Cadaveric dissection is indispensable for anatomy learning. The student - cadaver relationship stabilized on humanities can serve as a simulation for future doctor-patient relationship. Hence bioethics is introduced in the medical curriculum. To achieve the goal of professionalism, cadaveric oath should be conducted on the first day of anatomy dissection, so that medical students can imbibe values like respect, gratitude, compassion, care and dignity towards their first teacher. MethodsThis is an observational study conducted in the Department of Anatomy of J.N.M.C., Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha. On the first day of anatomy dissection, first year medical students were sensitized about the ethical approach towards cadaver. Students were given cadaveric oath. 220 students who participated in the study marked their responses to the questionnaire about the perceptions of cadaveric oath according to the 5 point Likert scale. Data was analysed statistically. Results172 (78.18 %) and 182 (82.73 %) students strongly agreed upon the importance of cadaveric oath in anatomy learning and that it is unique and essential aspect of the medical curriculum respectively. Students agreed that this event helped them to overcome their inhibitions and the event was heart touching and empathetic 98.18 % students strongly agreed that they should be thankful to the family members for the noble gesture of body donation. 95 % students strongly agreed that they are enlightened about the importance of once lived bodies while 97.73 % strongly agreed that cadaver should be treated with respect, compassion, care and dignity. 97.27 % students agreed that cadavers are their silent mentors. Students strongly agreed that cadaveric oath event should be continued for future medical undergraduates and there should be awareness about bioethical education among medical students. ConclusionsIn the present study, cadaveric oath ceremonies helped learners to develop empathy towards their silent mentors. Students strongly agreed that they will always remember the noble gesture of donors for donating their body for medical education and research which cannot be compared to any of the modern-day virtual dissection tool for anatomy learning.