Long call
Formal Definition
A residency call schedule designation for the shift that accepts new admissions until a specified time or until the cap is reached, as opposed to short call (limited admission window) or cross-cover only.
How It's Used on the Ward
"On long call tonight" — means taking new admissions. "Short call" ends earlier. Call schedules vary wildly by program.
Example
""Senior to student: 'You're with me on long call — we might admit until 2am. Short call team hands off at 10pm. If it's a slow night, great. If not, welcome to medicine.'""
Clinical Context
Call structure shapes everything about a rotation. Long call = expect admissions, keep energy for overnight. Short call = limited admit window, off earlier. Understanding the call schedule tells you which resident has the most context on a given patient and who to contact for overnight issues.