What do you feel is the single most important quality an anesthesiologist should possess?

How to Answer
Entry Level Example
Answer Example
Experienced Example

This is an exploratory question that allows the interviewer to gain insight into what you feel is the most important quality to possess in order to be successful in the role. There is no wrong answer, as there are many important traits, qualities, and skills that an anesthesiologist must possess. Asking this type of question ensures you understand the required soft skills for the position.

"As a specialist beginning my unsupervised practice of anesthesiology, I feel the most important quality to possess is one of prudent assimilation. I know that any seasoned specialist builds upon his or her skills by observing others and incorporating ideas and protocols that are witnessed first hand and felt important to add to their own tool chest of skills. A successful anesthesiologist who has enjoyed a remarkable career is an amalgam of the many fine doctors with whom he or she has worked through the years."

"In this role, attention to detail is important, as mistakes can have drastic consequences. As an anesthesiologist, I must have the presence of mind to closely monitor even the most routine procedures and be ready to take swift and decisive action when emergencies arise. This is a skill I possess and would bring to the team."

"I have come to learn that the single most important quality of an anesthesiologist is attentiveness. During surgery, an anesthesiologist needs to pay attention to multiple patient queues, orders, and details. It's imperative to be engaged and present at all times during this parade of duties. That being said, the most important quality--patient by patient--is perspective, being able to see the whole picture. We are a collection of processes, tissues, chemicals, and electrical discharges, but our 'whole' is our body; likewise, as I monitor all of these individual processes, tissues, and so on, I have to keep the body as a whole in mind. I have learned that by the time something happens to the body, the process deeper down that started the abnormality may look innocent unless I keep in mind the cascade of processes that make the whole. If not, I may miss the problem."