Objectives to direct the training of emergency medicine residents on off-service rotations: surgery, Part 1.

This is the 34th article in a continuing series of objectives to direct emergency medicine resident experiences on off-service rotations. Abdominal and gastrointestinal complaints are common problems in the emergency department and often lead to consultation with a surgeon. Because an understanding of the principles of surgical diagnosis and treatment is an essential component of the practice of emergency medicine, residents rotating on surgical services require specific goals and objectives to emphasize early patient assessment, identification of the possible need for surgery, and a basic understanding of definitive management.