ABSTRACT

It is common practice for residents entering the first year of their training program to undergo a formal orientation to the residency clinic and curriculum. These orientation programs usually consist of social, administrative and clinical components. However, when the resident does a rotation in a preceptor's office, a formal orientation is frequently absent. The resident shows up at the office, and the preceptor says 'Hi. I'm Dr Jones. Welcome to the practice. Follow me and we will start seeing some patients.' Wise residents can often deal with this situation because they have inquired about rotating in Dr Jones' office by talking to a peer resident who has already been there. A better alternative is a more formal and structured orientation that can greatly increase the effectiveness and satisfaction of the learning experience for the resident, as well as making the teaching process more enjoyable for the preceptor.