Morning Report: Not Just a Matter of Attitude

Morning report can be a valued learning experience for residents if it is conducted in a way that is stimulating, challenging, and nonhumiliating. The survey of resident attitudes toward morning report by Ways et al¹ focused on an often neglected aspect of residency programs: obtaining feedback from residents. However, a final judgment about morning report can only be made with respect to its contribution to improving the knowledge level of residents. To achieve this goal, I prefer to select the case to be discussed 1 to 2 days in advance. This allows me to organize a structured discussion. Since initial diagnostic workups may have already been done, the diagnostic strategy can be evaluated retrospectively. One or more attending physicians are invited to participate in the morning report. The attending physicians are chosen for their expertise in the area to be discussed, for their involvement with the patient, and for