"I recently read a paper by Dr. Lea Baider and Dr. Simon Wein on the realities of physicians facing death regularly. The paper suggested that successful physicians dealing with death at appropriate times do so by compartmentalizing their day's events. The paper said that if a physician is to split the mechanics of the problem from the emotional side, the physician can continue to function without the emotions getting in the way. This is an excellent recommendation, but it is also important to choose an appropriate time to address those emotions. This would perhaps mean having a mentor or counselor I could visit regularly. Also, not internalizing a death or blaming myself for the event."

If you have experienced death, describe how you coped with it. Let the interview panel know that you understand death is part of the job, and you are prepared to handle death and dying patients.