How to Survive (and Thrive) During Your Surgical Rotation: A Medical Student's Guide
urgical rotations are often one of the most intense, exciting, and physically demanding parts of medical school. For many students, it's their first real exposure to the operating room, early mornings, and the fast-paced world of surgery. While it can feel overwhelming at first, the surgical rotation is also a chance to grow, learn essential clinical skills, and even fall in love with the specialty.
Here’s a practical guide to help you not just survive—but truly thrive—during your surgery rotation.
1. Understand the Surgical Team Structure
Before stepping into the OR, get familiar with the roles around you. From the attending surgeon to the intern, and from scrub nurses to anesthetists—everyone plays a vital part. Respecting each role and understanding the chain of command will help you blend in smoothly and avoid unintentional missteps.
2. Always Be Early
In surgery, on-time means late. Arriving at least 20–30 minutes early gives you time to review your patient’s case, look up the planned procedure, and scrub in without stress. Showing up early also demonstrates commitment and professionalism.
3. Learn How to Scrub, Gown, and Glove Properly
This is non-negotiable. Your first impression in the OR often starts with how well you scrub in. Watch tutorials, ask the scrub nurse for tips, and practice the technique beforehand. If you mess up, don’t panic—just ask politely to start over.
4. Know the Patient and the Procedure
Before each case, read the patient’s history and understand the reason for surgery. Look up the procedure—its indications, steps, common complications, and anatomy involved. Being prepared will help you follow along and respond confidently if questioned.
5. Be Proactive and Helpful
You may not be performing surgeries, but your attitude counts. Offer to help where you can—positioning the patient, adjusting the lights, holding retractors, writing notes. Avoid being passive, but don’t get in the way.
6. Practice Suturing and Knot-Tying
Even if you’re not asked to suture during your first week, being prepared is key. Practice at home with a suture kit or even simple tools like foam pads. If you show that you’re ready and confident, residents may let you try.
7. Ask Questions (But Choose the Right Time)
Surgery is a teaching field, but timing is everything. Ask thoughtful questions that show you're engaged, but never during critical moments of the procedure. Save more detailed questions for post-op discussions or ward rounds.
8. Carry a Small Handbook
Having a pocket reference like Surgical Recall or Oxford Handbook of Clinical Surgery can be a lifesaver. Use downtime to review anatomy, procedures, or common post-op complications.
9. Review and Reflect Each Day
After your shift, jot down what you observed or assisted with. Reflect on what went well and what you could improve. This habit deepens your learning and helps build your clinical logbook or case list.
10. Stay Positive and Show Interest
Even when you’re tired, try to stay enthusiastic. A positive, curious, and humble attitude is appreciated by surgical teams. It shows you're teachable and committed to the experience.