Senior Resident

Emphasis on Time in the Observation Unit

It may be beneficial to explore shifts in the observation unit (OU). This is typically started in the second year of residency. Some residency programs incorporate longitudinal OU shifts over the entire course of residency, while others have dedicated months of OU shifts. You may also be able to use elective time for this.

Administrative Involvement

The goal should be to become familiar with overall management of an OU. You should have some understanding of observation coding and billing, how to create new OU protocols, optimal staffing, quality issues, and metrics of an OU. Attending OU administration meetings or going to an observation medicine conference would also be helpful if you have a particular interest in OU after graduation. Ask the clinical leadership in your department if there is a way you can become involved in the operation of your OU.