D. Joanna Kim, MD
December 15, 2025
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Transition into senior residency means increased clinical responsibility, operative autonomy, and leadership expectations. Among these, I found mentorship to be one of the most meaningful and impactful aspects of the role. Effective mentorship strengthens team dynamics, improves patient care, and fosters a culture of continuous learning. The following principles are some key lessons I learned from my senior residents as a junior trainee and what I now strive to practice as a senior resident myself.
1Teaching and Mentorship
As a senior resident, it is important to guide junior residents not only through daily tasks but also to ensure the team progresses meaningfully through the rotation. Verbalizing thought processes during decision-making, explaining the rationale behind clinical choices, or walking a resident through the steps of a surgical approach are roles that senior resident should actively take.
For example, in the operating room, I try to highlight key steps and relevant anatomy, discuss potential pitfalls and common complications, and articulate my intraoperative reasoning. verbalizing thoughts can create transparent and supportive learning environment. If you are overseeing consults for a junior resident, reviewing clinical reasoning and discussing the decision-making process are some ways I try reinforce principles and clinical judgment.
2Feedback
Feedback is essential, and effective team dynamic requires regular, thoughtful communication. Consistent check-ins throughout the rotation allow both senior and junior residents to discuss what is working well, what needs improvement, and how both individuals can improve to be a more effective team member.
Feedback should be specific, constructive, and timely. It should focus on observable behaviors and technical skills, highlight opportunities for improvement while recognizing strengths, and be delivered timely after relevant encounters. Importantly, feedback should be bidirectional. Asking junior residents how you can better support their learning or adjust your teaching style fosters mutual accountability and trust.
3Graduated Responsibility
Mentorship as a senior resident includes supporting your junior resident through graduated autonomy – whether in the operating room, clinic, or consults. Senior residents should provide opportunities for juniors to take initiative and assume responsibility in a safe and structured manner.
I found setting expectations beforehand —such as identifying the steps of a procedure the junior resident will perform— help establish clear goals and maintains operative flow. Also, encouraging juniors to anticipate next steps, prepare instruments, or think through reduction strategies are other ways of supporting graduated responsibility.
4Professionalism and Team Culture
Senior residents set the tone for the team’s culture. I am constantly cognizant about approaching patient care with consistency and empathy, communicating effectively with all members of the care team, and maintaining composure during challenging moments. Senior residents should promotes efficiency, teamwork, and respect across all levels of training, from medical students to junior residents.
The senior resident’s mentorship role is foundational to team morale, educational quality, and the overall culture of the residency program. Effective mentors are approachable, supportive, and intentional in their teaching. Be the senior residents feel safe approaching with questions, and prioritize purposeful teaching, constructive feedback, and trust within the team!
DISCLOSURES: Dr. Kim This individual reported nothing to disclose.
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