During the first block of their PGY-1 year, residents have a decreased shift burden as they transition from medical student to physician. During this time there are dedicated didactic, small group, and simulation sessions reviewing the EM approach to common patient complaints, EM procedures, and resuscitation.

Additionally, a shift working with nursing, ED techs, radiology techs, pharmacy, and the clinical lab is included to introduce residents to the work happening all around them and the various roles and responsibilities in the ED. To better understand the role of EMS, interns work with the North Charleston Fire Department to perform simulated vehicle extrication.

Interns have time to get settled in a new city, become familiar with residency procedure and hours logging, and get to know their faculty mentors, resident big buddies, and classmates. Interns are also welcomed to Charleston in grand fashion with a night watching the Charleston River Dogs and our annual Welcome BBQ.