Residency is a transformative journey that offers immense growth opportunities, both professionally and personally. As an internal medicine resident, each day brings new challenges and learning experiences. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for me on the floors, blending the rigors of medical training with moments of personal enjoyment.
4:45 AM: Rise and Shine
My day starts early with a quick workout. Exercising before work boosts my energy levels and sets a positive tone for the day.
5:30 AM: Ready to Roll
After a refreshing shower, I change into my scrubs and head out. On my 7-minute walk to the hospital, I enjoy listening to medical podcasts—living close by is a huge time-saver, especially in the first year of residency.
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Getting the Lay of the Land
When I arrive at the hospital, I start by checking patient charts while waiting for the night team to sign out. The sign-out process involves a detailed handover from the night float resident, who updates me on any new admissions and overnight events. This handoff is crucial for continuity of care.
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Pre-rounds
Pre-rounding involves a detailed review of each patient I’m responsible for. I discuss patient cases with medical students and senior residents and discuss any pressing concerns with the nursing staff. Communication with the team is critical to ensuring comprehensive patient care.
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Morning Report
Morning reports are held in person with Zoom access for those not at the hospital. These sessions include case discussions, EKG reviews, and board topic lectures, providing a great learning platform.
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Rounds
During rounds, we focus on unstable patients and new admissions first. Each patient case is presented formally, followed by a group discussion on their care plan. Our attending physician often provides bedside teaching; sometimes, residents or students present topics during rounds. Orders are placed and updated during this time.
12:00 PM – 12:20 PM: Lunch Break
A quick lunch is essential to recharge for the rest of the day.
12:20 PM – 8:00 PM: Patient Care and Documentation
Afternoons are busy with discharges, consults, and additional orders. I spend time talking to family members and providing updates. Completing patient notes and teaching medical students are also critical components of this time.
2:00 PM – 3:50 PM: Academic Responsibilities
I complete my notes, review them with medical students, and call families for daily updates. Teaching is a significant part of my role, reinforcing my learning as I help others.
4:00 PM – 4:20 PM: Sign-out
I sign out my patients to the resident and senior resident covering the short call. If I am on a short call, I handle admissions and the on-call phone until 7:00 PM. Otherwise, I finish my tasks and head home.
4:20 PM – 4:30 PM: Homeward Bound
A quick walk back to my apartment complex marks the end of my hospital day.
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Unwind and Recharge
I prepare dinner and check any emails received during the day. This is my time to relax and recharge.
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Personal Time
I engage in activities I love, like playing basketball or soccer, hanging out with friends, or dedicating time to MKSAP study or research projects.
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Review and Relax
I review topics covered during morning rounds, call friends and family, and enjoy downtime before bed.
Academic Variations
My schedule varies with academic commitments. Wednesdays feature an academic half-day from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, a protected learning time followed by free time, unless on call.
Residency is demanding, but establishing a routine and dedicating time to professional and personal growth makes the journey rewarding. Balancing work, study, and leisure is essential for maintaining well-being and achieving success in internal medicine training.
Stay tuned for more insights into the life of a resident!