Generation Z in orthopaedic surgery

Abstract

A new generation evolves every 15 to 20 years. Each generation shows complexities and interactions between generations that are interesting and true (Table). Generation Z, also known as Gen Z, Zoomers, post-Millennials, Zers, iGeneration, Internet generation, Homeland generation, Founders, Pivotals, Generation nice, Screenagers, Share generation, Centennials, and Plurals, is the name given to the generation of young people born in the late 1990s up to the early 2000s. They are the successors to generation Y (Millennials) and precede generation Alpha (the children of Millennials).1-4 Generation Z is the first generation to be born into the world of Internet, smart devices and apps. They spend more time on electronic devices, and on the Internet than any previous generation. Their smartphone is an extension of their hand, and their smartwatch does more than just tell time. Currently, generation Z are the people in orthopaedic residency and early practice.1-4 
The first members of generation Z entered residency programs in 2020, and currently many are working in hospitals as residents or junior physicians.1-4,8 Zoomers believe the practice of medicine should not be exhausting, but fulfilling. They dislike spending long periods of time listening to lectures, and they mirror their experiences in social media. Meetings and hospital duties should be minimal and absolutely scheduled in order to ensure a good quality of life, and accompanied by a defined period of daily work that should not be exceeded.1,4 Working less and paid more will be the attitude in the practice of medicine.1,4,8