This job can take a toll on your emotions. Have your emotions ever interfered with your ability to perform your job?

"Everyone is emotional to a certain degree, which I surely am. A healthcare career can sometimes be emotional; however, I focus on the positives. For instance, if we are close to losing a patient, I will focus on positive memories rather than the illness. This mindset has consistently allowed me to continue with a productive shift, no matter the emotions that come my way. In my ten years working in this profession, I have never let my emotions interfere with my ability to perform my job."

"This is a great question. We've all had those sad cases. A child dies, or you have to give someone a cancer diagnosis. It's professional to take a few minutes after an encounter like that and let those emotions come and go. I cope with these emotions by telling myself that it's not my story; it's the patient's story. I think it's okay to be moved by someone else's experience, but I don't need to make it mine. Having this mindset helps keep my feelings under control so I can remain professional at all times."

It is okay to let the interviewer know you are emotional, which shows a sign of empathy and compassion. However, you want to stress that you can contain your emotions at work and do not let them interfere with your job performance.