Clerkship Program

Clerkship Overview

This four-week clerkship challenges medical students to take care of patients undergoing surgical procedures along with patients being cared for in the Intensive Care Units. 

During the operative two-week block, students critically examine the perioperative process and learn its fundamental procedures.

During the critical care two-week block, students manage critically-ill patients and implement the necessary interventions for stabilization and management.

Students complete modules prior to each corresponding lecture. These involve active participation by means of simulation and problem-based learning discussions.

Description of Clerkship

A first year resident, places a central venous catheter during a placement simulation

Weeks 1 and 2

The first two weeks are dedicated to intraoperative anesthetic management of the surgical patient, including patient care under the direct supervision of a resident or attending.

A typical day includes arriving at ~6:00 a.m. to help set up the OR, attending conference at 6:30 a.m. and starting the first OR case of the day at 8:00 a.m.

Typically, there are several cases throughout the day. A continuity of care is expected, students perform the next day’s preoperative evaluation and visit the postoperative patients from the preceding day.

Weeks 3 and 4

During the second block of the clerkship, the students participate in the ICU management team of their choosing. 

Each ICU management team differs slightly in schedule and management style, therefore, the specific times and rounding formats are left to each service to define within the framework of their goals and objectives. 

Half of the students start in the operating room for the anesthesia portion of the clerkship. The other half start in the ICU. After two weeks, the groups switch. 

Online learning modules are available for the students to complete on their own time. These correspond to a simulation or a problem-based learning discussion that requires material to be understood in order to critically appraise the patient scenarios.

Students must complete the online learning modules before the scheduled simulation or problem-based learning session or they will not earn credit for the module.

Didactic and laboratory sessions are held in various lecture rooms, the simulator room (CG-68) and the Shands and VA operating suites. Evaluation is through objective examinations performed by the residents, fellows and attendings.

Educational Philosophy of the Clerkship

Anesthesiology/Critical Care Medicine focuses on the perioperative experience as well as patients suffering through critical illness.

From basic review and application of pharmacology, physiology and pathology to the full range of perioperative medicine and acute and chronic pain management, this rotation encompasses all disciplines in a unique and relevant way. 

The Department of Anesthesiology provides a non-threatening learning environment in which students are expected to actively participate in planning, procedures and management of acutely ill patients. By actively participating in the OR, the ICU, simulations and case discussions, students develop a foundation in perioperative medicine and critical care that is applicable to all physicians regardless of specialty.