The swedish externship can be very intense. They send you this packet in the mail that is very intimidating but do not let the paperwork fool you. This program is one of the best in the country and the externship is top notch. The case load will depend on what month you have. The weather is best in the summer months so most people do not choose to have surgery. Some days are slow, with one or no surgeries but the residents always have topics for you to read about and discuss so you are always learning.
The housing is about 150 a month which can't be beat although it takes some getting used to. Living in the hospital is kind of strange but the plethora of scrubs down the hall and housekeeping services are a benefit. There is a laundromat a 10 minute walk up the hill and the bus stop is on the corner. I got a monthly bus pas and went all over the city every weekend that I was free. The city has many great attractions.
There are three jobs assigned to the extern, cast cart, pre -op h & P, and post op note-gloves-local-white board, along with scrubbing in.
There is a great variety of cases at the program with focus on lapidus procedures and ankle. Know your ankle classifications and procedures.
They scope with the best of them so know arthroscopic anatomy as well. They will ask you questions. You have to do a PPT presentation and a case study with literature review. They have a small but well stocked library.
Everyones experience is different. I had great residents to work with and on some of the down time I went to a couple of the attendings private offices which was a great learning opportunity.
-J
Good luck have fun and be prepared.
Depending on the month, it can be hard to get.
