In surgery, unclear team roles amid rising demands can lead to poor learning, burnout, and patient safety risks.

• Role ambiguity during high case volumes disrupts teamwork and learning, impacting both residents and advanced practice providers.
• Increased cognitive load and diminished educational opportunities are evident when residents face unclear responsibilities.

Addressing these systemic issues can enhance both resident training and patient care quality.

• Implementing structured role frameworks can alleviate these pressures and safeguard clinician well-being.