Ethics seminars: teaching professionalism to "problem" residents.

Professional skills, which include communication, compassion, honesty, integrity, altruism, service, commitment, suspension of self-interest, commitment to excellence, authority, and accountability, are essential skills that should be taught during residency. A variety of approaches can be used, which include didactic teaching, bedside teaching, leadership, evaluation, and individualized mentorship. Deficiencies in professional skills should be identified early in the residency program, and should be addressed on an individual level.