6:00 a.m.

Time for rounds! On surgery, it’s speedy—just the way I like it. The chief resident (PGY-5) leads the team (me, intern, PGY-4) down the list, checking in on our post-op and consult patients. After rounds, the chief will discuss the plan with the attending and send out any updates to the rest of the team.

7:00 a.m.

Now that rounds are over, it’s time to head to the pre-op area to meet the patient for the first case of the day. After introducing ourselves, the surgical team goes through the consent process with the patient by explaining the risks, benefits and alternatives to the surgery they’re about to have. Usually, this has already been discussed earlier at their clinic visit, but going over it again gives the patient an opportunity to ask any questions they have. It’s also a great learning opportunity for me.