Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this addictive primetime drama is meant for an adult audience and has many adult themes, including sexual relationships among most of the show's characters, in addition to copious blood and occasionally graphic surgeries. There's some mild language, too, and characters often turn to alcohol to relieve occupational stress. For adults who like medical soap operas, it's an excellent choice; just make sure the kids are asleep first.

Sexual Content

The show puts a lot of emphasis on the characters' personal relationships, most of which are sexual in nature. There's plenty of bed-hopping between co-workers, including some same-sex pairings. While the characters kiss, embrace, and have implied sex, no sensitive body parts are shown.

Violence

Scenes aren't always graphic, but are occasionally gory and can involve surgeries, blood, critical injuries, and even death. Some episodes deal with shootings, explosions and other violent incidents.

Language

Some language of the "ass" and "damn" variety.

Social Behavior

The show portrays doctoring as a tough business that brings up difficult ethical dilemmas, and the takeaways are rarely black and white. That said, the doctors often act heroically to save lives. Many storylines also promote awareness of conditions like Alzheimer's, etc.

Consumerism

Not applicable

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Characters meet regularly at a local bar to de-stress after work. One character uses alcohol to the point that it negatively impacts his career, and he's temporarily suspended. But he eventually goes through rehab and makes positive changes.