Back to Program Structure

This is a very demanding rotation. The primary responsibility of the junior resident is to manage patients in the ICU and on the ward under the supervision of the intensivists and attending physicians.

Pre-rounding on ICU patients is required and generally performed by the resident coming off call prior to daily rounds. Rounding should also be done on postoperative patients and immediate postoperative patients with known active problems.

The junior resident should communicate throughout the day with senior resident staff and faculty on problems related to their patients. Furthermore, they will be available for consultation in the emergency room and inpatient services.

Consultation patients should also be seen on a daily basis with documentation in the chart. Junior residents are encouraged to be in attendance in the operating room to the extent that they are available. Chief residents and attendings are encouraged to include the junior residents, as they are available.

The goals of the PGY 2 year are to become proficient in positioning patients for surgery, assist in performing straightforward neurosurgical procedures, and to become independently capable of minor procedures. Furthermore, the junior resident should develop significant evaluation and management skills, including appropriate diagnostic testing, interpretation of diagnostic tests, and proper utilization of pharmaceutical agents. This time should also be used to further develop critical care skills.