Working in healthcare can be emotionally draining. Have you ever let your emotions interfere with your job?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
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1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

The interviewer wants to know if you consider yourself to be an emotionally driven person. Keep in mind - almost everyone is an emotional creature to some degree. The interviewer understands this, but they want to ensure your emotions will not interfere with your work. While you do not want to lie during an interview, you also do not want to be honest to a fault and have the interviewer pass you over for another candidate. It is best to formulate your response where the interviewer understands you are a compassionate individual with emotions but are professional enough to keep them in check while at work.

It's important to assure the interviewer that you can manage your emotions effectively and provide the best care for your patients. While you certainly have felt emotional at times, let them know how you always try to maintain a calm and professional demeanor while on the job. Ultimately, your focus is on doing what's best for your patients and ensuring their well-being, even if that means putting your emotions aside.

"Everyone is emotional to a certain degree, and I consider myself compassionate and caring. 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 with them rather than the illness. This mindset has consistently allowed me to continue with a productive shift, no matter the emotions that come my way."

"We've all had those severe cases that can play on the emotions, but I have never let my emotions interfere with my work. 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."