The first year provides the resident with an introduction to the usual problems of general surgery. Surgical Specialties 6 months Orthopedics, Urology, Anesthesia, Emergency Room and Neurosurgery Duties First-year residents are responsible for admission histories and physical examinations of patients admitted to their service. Each resident must also discern diagnostic possibilities and develop a diagnostic and treatment plan for each patient. Residents may perform surgical procedures commensurate with their level of training. The attending physician supervises the resident, who acts as first assistant to the physician or chief resident surgeon.
Residents are important members of the post-operative patient care team.
In addition to their own rounds, residents make daily working and teaching rounds with their attending physicians. Each resident also actively participates in teaching medical students coming to the surgical service from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. Surgery Preliminary Program Residents planning a surgical career other than general surgery may choose the Surgery Preliminary Program. Residents who decide to enter general surgery may satisfy first-year requirements through this program. This program can be adjusted to meet requirements for a resident's future career.