How do you approach dealing with an angry patient, and why?

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Knowing how you will handle a difficult situation will tell the interviewer if you have the the right attitude for this job. Being a physician means you have to deal with people from very different backgrounds and with varying personalities. Give the interviewer an example of how you would handle an angry patient.

"I think it is important to try and find out what has made the patient mad. If it is something such as not being called as quickly as he had expected, a simple explanation regarding what caused the delay may help calm him."

"I believe acting calmly and speaking rationally is a great way to calm someone who is angry and I try to be the voice of reason without making someone feel that I am belittling them."

"There are a couple of different approaches and safety is, of course, the most important thing to consider. A patient who is angry could become combative which could result in injury to him, to me, or to both of us. I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the patient upset and try to resolve the underlying cause, if at all possible."

Anonymous Answer

"I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the client upset. Listen without interruption. Apologize and resolve the underlying cause, if possible."

Rachelle's Feedback

This is a great approach and one that would most likely prevent further escalation. Good answer!

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Anonymous Answer

"I believe that the best approach would be talking to the angry patient calmly and asking what has made the patient upset, listening attentively, and resolving the underlying cause if possible. Talking to them calmly will give them the chance to calm down as well."

Jaymie's Feedback

You did a good job focusing on effective communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Consider briefly mentioning any preventive measures you might take to avoid similar situations in the future. This could include identifying triggers or implementing strategies to enhance communication and patient satisfaction.

How to Answer: How do you approach dealing with an angry patient, and why?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Addiction Nurse job interview.

9. How do you approach dealing with an angry patient, and why?

How to Answer

Written by Heather Douglass

Entry Level Example

Written by Rachelle Enns

Answer Example

"I believe acting calmly and speaking rationally is a great way to calm someone who is angry and I try to be the voice of reason without making someone feel that I am belittling them."

Written by Heather Douglass

Experienced Example

Written by Rachelle Enns

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

Anonymous Answer

"I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the client upset. Listen without interruption. Apologize and resolve the underlying cause, if possible."

Rachelle's Feedback

This is a great approach and one that would most likely prevent further escalation. Good answer!

Show More Answers

Anonymous Answer

Jaymie's Feedback

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