PGY-1 Orientation

All residents without current certifications must attend ACLS, ATLS, and PALS courses during the last week of June prior to starting clinical shifts. In addition, all residents are required to participate in an orientation conducted by the University of South Florida and Tampa General Hospital.

During the month of July all PGY-1s begin their residency experience in the emergency department. At the beginning on the month there are shifts in the emergency department where the residents work with the nursing staff and other ancillary personnel in their roles to learn how the ED truly functions as a "team". Later in the month residents begin their physician roles with clinical shifts in the emergency department.

The orientation month also consists of lectures that cover topics such as the management of critically ill patients, conscious sedation, pain management in the emergency department, and the approach to the undifferentiated patient. Lectures will also include techniques for improving efficiency and documentation in the emergency department.

Simulation and hands-on skills labs are integrated into the orientation experience and include an advanced airway and emergent procedures lab, wound care and splinting session, an introduction to the slit lamp and management of ophthalmological emergencies, and an emergency ultrasound course.

Participation in an outdoor team building exercise is an annual tradition. Relax in the sun and build relationships with your colleagues while paddling in kayaks through the beautiful Wheaton Preserve!