Residents at work
We strive to make learning fun, not just in the ED but also during resident conferences. Our most highly rated conferences are procedural/skills days, simulation conferences, and our month-long cadaver lab. Over the last few years, our conference days have evolved to include more simulation and small-group sessions targeted to each PGY class (each class splits up for separate activities planned just for them). At least quarterly, our didactics are focused on wellness-related or non-traditional topics. (see Wellness section for further details).We also have game-themed conferences dedicate to Board Review. Residents prepare for the In-Training Exam via Jeopardy, Cash Cab, charades, etc.
We focus on graduated responsibility, allowing residents to build their clinical and leadership skills over time. PG-2 and PG-3 residents run their own “pod” on a shift with PG-3s also having additional administrative responsibilities, such as taking transfer calls and signing EKGs. PG-1s begin the year by acclimating to the ED and seeing patients all over the department; they transition to running their own pod by the end of the year. To allow ample time for documentation, sleep, and other activities, shifts are 8 hours. Typical shift numbers in a four-week block: PG-1 16-18, PG-2 19-21, PG-3 17-19.
Our senior residents embrace their role as departmental teachers and mentors. Residents advocated for the implementation of a resident teaching shift, which began in 2015. As a teaching shift resident, our PGY3s work closely with interns and students, with an emphasis on learning, as opposed to moving large patient volumes. Our residents are very involved with medical student education. The emergency medicine interest group (EMIG) is the largest interest group at UMKC School of Medicine. Our residents help train the EMIG members to compete in SimWars competitions and regularly give lectures and host workshops for the interest group.
Residents outside of work
We feel strongly that residents should be able to have a life outside of work and strive to keep schedules reasonable. When not working, our residents enjoy spending time together. Favorite activities include attending Royals, Chiefs, or Sporting KC games, playing Pickleball, or hitting up local bars. Our residents enjoy gathering up their four-legged friends and meeting at local dog parks. Regularly planned gatherings include an annual intern welcome party, and an annual farewell party for the PGY3s, both hosted by some of our outstanding attendings. Our interns also host monthly parties during the month that they are on their Anesthesia rotation. These provide great opportunities to get to know our colleagues and staff.