30 Behavioral Interview Questions for an Anesthesiologist Interview
Below is a list of our Behavioral Anesthesiologist interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral Aensthesiologist
1. How do you handle working with little to no supervision as an Anesthesiologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will need to come into this role with the ability to work independently and think on your feet without someone watching over your shoulder. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to ensure that you will come to their institution with the ability and desire to work independently as their next Anesthesiologist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about a time you were very successful in your work, even when you lacked close supervision from someone in a position of authority. Then, finish your reply by asking the interviewer to describe the level of supervision that the Anesthesiologists with this team receive. It is your responsibility to ensure that the amount of support offered in this position aligns with your own needs. At the end of your response, emphasize your ability to work independently and explain how that will benefit the anesthesia team upon your hire.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have the ability to think on my feet and make critical decisions on my own. In my current practice, I work in our critical access hospital's operating rooms. In these situations, I am away from my department chair and the typical surgeons I practice with. I am comfortable in my ability to make sound decisions on my own and communicate with teams I don't always work with."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Aensthesiologist
2. Have you ever had a situation where you felt you could have communicated better with a patient, a patient's family, or a colleague?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Patient-centered communication is vital for an anesthesiologist, and your interviewers need to be assured that you would join their institution as a great communicator. They need to know that you will be aware of your communication shortcomings if you are faced with one while employed with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think of a time you could have communicated to someone better. Whether your example is a communication with a colleague, support staff, or patient, make sure the situation you describe shows that you learned a lesson and took action to make the situation right. No matter how you answer, make sure that your interviewer walks away from your time together knowing that you are cognizant of the fact that your communications are important as an Anesthesiologist and that you will take every conversation at their institution seriously.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current practice, about six months ago, I worked a long weekend stretch of 12 hour night shifts that turned into almost 16 hour nights for three straight nights. Towards the end of my final shift, I was short with a resident in our department when he asked some great questions. That night, when I laid down to go to sleep, I realized that how I had talked to him was not acceptable at all. I decided to run back to the hospital when I woke up to personally apologize to the resident. He was very pleased that I took the time to apologize and answer his questions."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
3. Have you ever worked in a situation where the policies and guidelines were not clear? How did you cope in that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When it comes time to providing direct care to patients as a successful Anesthesiologist, the policies and procedures set out by an organization aren't one size fits all. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to hear that you can work effectively when things might be a bit gray for operating procedures on the job. They'll want to hear that you have a strong moral and ethical compass to rely on when faced with patient-care decisions.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer about a specific situation you faced where you were unclear about the guidelines or rules. Outline the situation, describe your responsibility or goal, and explain how you chose to approach the situation. Be sure to tell the interviewer that even though you were not entirely clear about the guidelines or rules, you still took great care in your approach, leaning on your knowledge base. Give as much detail as you can regarding how you coped in the face of ambiguity. If your process generated positive results, be sure to provide those details.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an Anesthesiologist who holds to the AMA Principles of Medical Ethics, I know that I have an ethical responsibility to my patients, my colleagues, my employer, and myself. I also know that the area of care we provide often operates in the 'gray' where institutional policies are concerned. A few months ago, we had a patient who needed unanticipated pulmonary artery catheter monitoring, and waiting until the patient could give consent wasn't an option because it could have resulted in harm to the patient. Typically, informed consent is important and required, but when a patient is under anesthesia care, they can't consent. We ended up making a life-saving decision for that patient, and I slept well that night knowing that."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
4. We embrace community outreach and diversity. Talk about your experiences working in a diverse environment and any atmospheres where community outreach was supported.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As your interviewer reviews your CV and experience, talks to references, and learns more about you during your interview process, they'll be able to get a very good idea of the clinical skills you will bring to their institution. This question gives your interviewer a chance to look at your cultural fit for the organization and whether your values align with theirs.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Think about times you've thrived in a diverse environment, and come to your interview prepared to talk about how you value working with a diverse team. Then, talk about the importance of healthcare organizations doing extra work in their communities and ways that you have contributed to this in the past. Keep in mind that your interviewer wants to hear that you are a well-rounded and ethical Anesthesiologist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"These are both things I value greatly in any employer, and I was happy to hear that you value them as well. From the time I entered medical school through my time in anesthesiology residency, I loved working closely with students and colleagues from around the world. We all bring unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences to situations, and that helps us be more efficient in problem-solving. Also during my time in residency, I was so glad to be able to give back to the community in which we practiced through food drives, heart walks, and other charitable events. If I were fortunate enough to join your organization, I would love to continue to be a part of these efforts."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
5. Have you ever had to balance priorities between patient care and an administrative meeting? How did you navigate that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The administrative side of a medical practice can require some significant time commitments. If you are asked a question like this during your interview, your interviewer will want to get an overall sense of how you balance the clinical and administrative sides of the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Be honest about your experiences throughout your career. If you've participated in various committees or groups, talk about how you prioritized those while having a very busy clinical practice. If you've had to participate in early morning, lunchtime, or evening meetings, talk about that experience and how you would feel about being in that type of environment moving forward. No matter you answer this question, ensure that your interviewer walks away from your time together knowing that your participation in activities outside of patient care is important to you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current practice, I am regularly scheduled for a few different meetings each week. Our department physicians and CRNAs meet weekly on Tuesday mornings. I'm also a part of two hospital committees; one meets monthly, and the other meets quarterly. I'm always happy to represent Anesthesiology on the hospital committees and have a passion for quality in healthcare. In all honesty, patient care is always my top priority, and I have had to miss meetings a couple of times over the last two years because of my responsibilities to my patients. In those instances, I followed up right away with the chair of the committee to get meeting minutes and see if I could contribute anything."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
6. Have you ever witnessed a peer doing or saying something inappropriate? How did you react in that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At times during your interview, your ethics will be evaluated. This question allows your interviewer some insight into how you handle a situation where a colleague was being inappropriate on the job and to measure the degree of overall ethics you would bring to their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, put some thought into an ethical dilemma you have faced in your career that involved the actions of a colleague or team member. Remember that this example can be from practice or residency. Outline the situation and the swift action you took to make it right. Whether you confronted the colleague directly or decided to take it up the chain of command, discuss why you took that action.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I currently work out of a large shared office with my physician colleagues and CRNAs. Depending on the time of day and day of the week, it can be a very busy place. One of my colleagues has been very lackadaisical in the past about leaving his computer screen up with our EMR and patient notes in full view when he walks away. Knowing that he is in direct violation of patient privacy and HIPAA, I immediately lock his computer down when I notice this. I've also talked with him a few times about our institutional policies on this. Over the past year, he has been very good about not leaving patient information up on his computer when walks away and locks it down as well."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
7. Describe a time you showed initiative in your work as an Anesthesiologist. Why was it important to do so in this situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
At some point during your interview, your interviewer will want evidence that you will take initiative on their team. In the practice you are interviewing with, you will be relied upon to take initiative in the OR. You will work with teams of CRNA's, nurses, and other physicians, and you'll need to prove that you won't shy away from taking the initiative with these teams.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Taking the initiative could mean that you take on responsibilities independently without being asked or continually coached by your manager. It could also mean that you jump in and assume the lead before others do or before being asked. Answer this question by telling the interviewer about a specific time you showed initiative in your work. Outline the situation, describe the task, and explain the actions you took to take the initiative. Give as much detail as you can regarding the positive results of your actions. At the end of your response, describe your high level of initiative and how this characteristic will benefit you in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Service to my community and the underserved is extremely important to me and one of the main reasons I'm pursuing a career as a physician. During my Anesthesiology residency, I organized many community service activities with my fellow residents and was commended by our program for these efforts. One particular effort was mentoring children from disadvantaged backgrounds in the community. I took the extra effort to reach out to area schools to get an idea of the number of children that could use the mentoring. Then, I developed a plan with the school administration and gathered other volunteers. While this certainly wasn't a requirement of my program, the lives we helped will stay with me forever."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
8. Which statement sounds more like you: 'I hate to lose' or 'I love to win'? Give an example of a time you proved this.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer wants to know more about your love of winning and the impact that loss has on you. As an anesthesiologist with the institution you are interviewing with, you will experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, and they want to be sure you can handle both with ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Choose which of the two statements sound most like you, and then be prepared to give the interviewer an explanation. For instance, if you hate to lose, you might express to the interviewer that the pain of losing has a more significant impact on you than the love of winning. You could follow up your response by talking about when you failed at something - how it felt, your actions to recover from the loss, and what you learned from the situation. The goal of your response is to demonstrate that you have a healthy competitive side and the drive to win.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would say that I love to win. In anesthesia, wins mean saving a patient, and these wins are always celebrated by a large team. I love when we can all celebrate a win together, and I look forward to leading more patient wins with your team. With that said, I also hate to lose. Whenever I feel like I underperform, I use that as a lesson to learn from and then move forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
9. Tell me about a time you failed as an Anesthesiologist. How did you get back up again with a positive attitude?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the complex world of medicine and patient care, every physician fails at one time or another. Your interviewer knows that any Anesthesiologist they hire will be prone to a mistake or two, and they want to hear that you will be accountable for your actions and do what is necessary to make the situation right.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
We all fail from time to time, and there is no need to be ashamed of defeat. The magic is in the lessons we learn from these situations. Give an example of an outcome that was not what you wanted it to be, but you were able to recover. Perhaps you were better off in the end or learned a valuable lesson. Outline the roadblock and share how you approached the situation. At the end of your response, discuss your level of dedication, even in the face of failure, and explain how you will make an impact on this program if you are hired. Also, be sure not to answer with a situation that borders on malpractice.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I pride myself on my laser-sharp focus, which has prevented any patient care mistakes during my career. I'd say that my biggest failure so far during my career was when I pursued a Medical Director role in the business development department of my current practice. I've always been enamored with intellectual property and innovation in the medical field, so I thought this would be a great career move. I held that title for just over a year. 10% of my time was dedicated to this role, and it was very difficult to step away from even that much time in my clinical practice. While I didn't fail per se as the Medical Director, I failed to realize that the administrative duties of that role weren't a good match at the time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
10. Tell me about a time you made a good impression on a patient or coworker. Why was it important to do so?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer wants evidence that you understand the foundations of building positive relationships with the patients you will be caring for at their institution. The goal of your response is to show them that you know how to make a lasting impression on patients and that your approach is the right fit for their Anesthesia team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
First impressions are everything, and there are many ways to impact a new patient significantly. When you answer, give a detailed overview of how you would approach making a good impression on a new patient. If you have experience, consider telling a brief story of a time you built a relationship with a patient, customer, or colleague. Include specific details of how you developed a relationship with this person. Explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit the institution you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"As an Anesthesiologist, I often only have a minute or two to make a lasting impression with a patient to build trust in one of the most trying times of their lives. Last year, we had a case with a young patient heading into surgery to remove a tumor, and his oncology care team let the surgical team know of his hobbies and passions. To ease him into surgery, I wore a cap of his favorite baseball team into his surgical prep, and his eyes lit up when I came in the room. In a situation like this, it's often doing the little things right for a patient in a tough time, and I love going that extra mile for them."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
11. Tell me about a time you wish you had handled a workplace situation differently.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an Anesthesiologist, you are consistently learning, growing, and adapting throughout your career. From time to time, small mistakes will happen, and your interviewer needs to know you are willing and ready to learn and grow from your mistakes.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Most people cannot handle every difficult situation with the utmost grace at all times. No matter who you are, you undoubtedly have had a work-related experience that makes you cringe. Answer this question by giving a story-based example of a time you reacted to a scenario in a way that you typically try to avoid. Outline the situation, and describe why you reacted the way you did. Focus on the actions that you took to repair the situation. Also, include details about the lesson you learned.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my second year of Anesthesiology residency, I let a senior resident belittle my work in front of a patient and didn't stand up for myself during or following the situation. Being a non-confrontational person, I simply let it slide. Looking back on this situation, I realize my senior resident should have been mentoring me rather than making me look foolish in front of a patient. If I were to act this way with a colleague, I hope they would call me out on it immediately."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
12. Have you ever had to build a relationship with someone who intimidated you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If asked this question during your interview, you can be assured that your interviewer has witnessed a physician or two come into their institution and be intimidated by a strong-willed member of their team. If the institution you are interviewing with has any world-renowned staff, becoming their colleague can be intimidating, and your interviewers want to know that you can get over the initial intimidation and build a great relationship with that person.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
When you answer, show the interviewer that you have the self-awareness to recognize feelings of intimidation. Tell a brief story of a time you built a relationship with someone who intimidated you at first. Include specific details about how you developed a relationship with this person. The goal of your response is to show that you don't let intimidation impact the quality of your work. Explain how your relationship-building skills will benefit the patients, staff, and your colleagues in the institution you are interviewing with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I had a department chief a couple of years ago who was intimidating because of his high demands and strong personality. I enjoy strong personalities; however, he didn't smile very often and was a bit flat with his emotions. This was sometimes hard to navigate. I would remind myself before speaking to him that he was human just like the rest of us. This approach helped me to communicate with him with much less intimidation."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
13. What was the most difficult decision you have had to make up to this point in your career path?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Throughout your medical education, residency, and (potential) practice experience, you have learned and mastered an enormous amount of knowledge in the Anesthesiology field, and your interviewing team will be confident in this. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to ensure that you would come to their institution with essential decision-making skills on top of your knowledge base.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Use an example relevant to your work or education, and be sure to highlight how you approached the decision by taking the interviewer through your critical thinking and decision-making process. You should also include details of how your decision worked out for the best. At the end of your response, remember to connect your critical thinking skills and how they will benefit your potential new employer if you are fortunate enough to become their next Anesthesiologist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"As you are fully aware, it can be impossible at times to involve the patient at the center of the decision making in their care, and this can be when difficult decisions have to be made. Last year, we had a 19-year-old young man suffer a rare heart attack, and we knew that emergency surgery for his situation could be life-threatening. We decided to hold off on the surgery and have the patient monitored for whatever time was necessary. In the end, we factored in the patient's age and medical history before deciding to go forward with a risky operation. I feel confident that the right decision was made that day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
14. Have you ever been in a time crunch with multiple competing patient priorities? How did you react, and what steps did you take?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the hustle and bustle of a busy Anesthesia practice, you will be pulled in many different directions when caring for patients. Knowing that any candidate that they interview is human and prone to a mistake from time to time, your interviewer wants to hear that you can recognize when situations get to be too much to handle and that you will be accountable for your actions and openly communicate the need for help when needed.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you do not have a defeatist mentality. Nobody is perfect! The interviewer knows you will face times when the patient load is almost unmanageable. They want to know how you react in these situations. Whether the example you discuss is from your residency training or while in practice, be sure to talk about the importance of communication and teamwork.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"A wise mentor once told me that practicing as an Anesthesiologist is 99% boredom and 1% panic. While I don't agree that 99% is boredom, I've found that I thrive in the 1% panic time. We just faced a situation like this last week, and the first step I took was to task the charge nurse on duty with communicating the care plans to her team with expected timelines. From there, we all immediately took action. In situations like this, I need to focus on one task at a time before moving on to the next patient. I trust that other staff on the care team are taking proper prep steps with other patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
15. Talk about a time you had to grab the bull by the horns and take the lead among a team of staff.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As they potentially consider a fruitful pool of candidates to join their team as the next Anesthesiologist, your interviewer may use a question on leadership abilities to separate the best candidate from the pack. Your interviewer will want to hear that you would come to their team with the ability to communicate effectively, establish credibility among your team to take the lead, and make sound decisions in the overall care of patients when leading a team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think of a time you naturally took the lead with a team of individuals. Highlight your ability to lead with respect and compassion in the way you communicate and inspire others to be their best. Reiterate to your interviewer that you would look forward to joining their team as a clinical physician leader.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Through medical school, residency, and into practice as an Anesthesiologist, I've always been a natural leader. This is evident in my years participating in team sports and being a captain of my teams. In my current role, I've worked to build a great rapport with my nursing staff, APP team, and fellow physicians to the point where I can lead with ease. A few months ago, we had a critically injured patient come in on a night shift when I was on call. My calm demeanor put our staff at ease, and I was able to delegate the necessary steps before surgery. When the surgeon arrived, he was thankful for all of the prep work done in a short period of time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
16. Tell me about a time you had to work with someone who was difficult to get along with.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know how well you get along with others, despite personality or work style differences that you will surely encounter with a diverse team. Show the interviewer you can work with individuals in the workplace who may seem challenging without confrontation. Show that you can work effectively despite any personality or work style differences.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Focus on a time your work style was different from another person's, but you still had to work through a difficult case together. Discuss, in a positive tone, how you made the situation work. Outline your ability to be a team player and build a connection with others, even if their personality or approach to work is different from yours. At the end of your response, explain how your communication abilities and level of professionalism will benefit you as an Anesthesiologist with this institution.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my residency training, I found that I have a personality that differed from a lot of my colleagues in training and the faculty of the program. I'm a very laid-back and quiet person by nature. Most surgeons and other physicians have bolder personalities, yet I find that I can work well with those personality types. During my final year of residency, I worked very closely with a great team of trauma surgeons, and one of them had a bold and demanding personality. At times, the demands were not friendly and often repeated. I learned quickly that the right approach was to not take things personally, keep a smile on my face, and stay focused on the case at hand while obliging any requests that were my responsibility."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
17. We believe in the continual development of our physician staff, both professionally and personally. Talk about some things you have done to grow in your career to this point.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Staying updated on the changes in technologies, procedures, and innovations as a physician, particularly as an Anesthesiologist, is important to any employer. Your interviewer asks this question to learn about the career development opportunities that you have taken advantage of up to this point in your career. Your answer will show that you will continue to thrive in your development while working with their institution.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, prepare to talk about the CME and other development opportunities you have taken advantage of that you feel have positively impacted your work as an Anesthesiologist. Be sure to stress how the development opportunities you've sought out can benefit the direct care of patients in the role you are interviewing for. Make sure your interviewer walks away from your time together knowing that you will continue to seek growth and development if hired for this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"If I don't strive for improvement, my care for my patients will suffer. I didn't train in anesthesiology to provide mediocre care. I want to practice state-of-the-art medicine while incorporating the new ideas and advances that come from the rapidly increasing medical knowledge, and that means keeping a keen eye out for training opportunities and literature in my specialty and incorporating what I learn into my practice. Since my residency program ended, I have taken advantage of some great CME opportunities. Last year, I took part in a mechanical ventilation conference where I learned a lot of great information pertaining to my work with critical care patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
18. Have you ever had to work with an angry patient or family member during your career? How did you successfully manage that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Anesthesiologists frequently have to handle patients that awaken from anesthesia in bad moods. The interviewers want to know that you have can navigate the inevitable an angry patient or family member and professionally handle stressful or uncomfortable situations as part of their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Briefly describe a time you had to work with a patient that was upset or downright angry. Highlight your ability to remain patient and rational in the face of conflict. Focus on the positive action you took and the resolution you came to with the patient rather than the details of the conflict itself.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have seen the negative side effects of general anesthesia for many years, and one particular case comes to mind when I think of these situations. An older gentleman was in recovery following knee surgery when he awoke yelling, pulling out his IV, and trying to grab the nurse. While he was very hard to understand, his wife immediately knew that his PTSD was kicking in, and he was having flashbacks to his days in combat. Knowing what to do in this situation, I quickly removed any dangerous objects from his grasp and used hospital protocol to restrain him while he was still in a dazed state. While we did this, I calmly talked to him to let him know where he was and who we were. I also asked his wife to talk to him to help him come to. Over the next 15 minutes, he slowly realized where he was and that he was in no danger."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
19. Talk about a time you had to adapt to major change in the workplace as an Anesthesiologist. How did you cope with this situation in a healthy and productive way?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Overall, healthcare is experiencing more rapid changes today than it has over the past 100 years, and your ability to handle and adapt to change with ease will be vital as an Anesthesiologist. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to know that you can embrace change and see it as an opportunity for overall improvement.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Pick an example of a time you faced a change, either in your Anesthesia training or in practice, and your response was constructive. Explain how the change directly impacted you, and tell the interviewers how you maintained a positive approach during the transition. No matter what example you use in your answer, be sure to reiterate that you fully understand that your future success as a physician will rely on your ability to change with the times to provide the best care possible to your patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"With technology constantly improving and changes to healthcare regulations always shifting, I know that I will have to be open and willing to adapt my work as an Anesthesiologist. A few years ago, my current institution changed to EPIC as our EMR, and this was a very big change for all staff, from my physician colleagues to the support staff. From the initial announcement of the change, I noticed many colleagues with a poor attitude about the change and a lot of fears over how work would be impacted. My mindset was completely the opposite, focusing on the great things that would come with the changes in EMR. I was so excited to know that a program like EPIC would make charting on patients and updated records so much easier. I quickly realized that my positive attitude was infectious on my team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
20. What would you say is the riskiest decision you have made in your career as an Anesthesiologist so far?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers are looking for a candidate who is willing to take calculated and well-thought-out risks. Climbing out of your comfort zone and taking a risk or two allows you to grow as a physician. Your interviewer wants to know how you approach making risky decisions and to hear you talk about a time that you did just this.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, put some serious thought into what you would consider the biggest risk you have taken in your career up to this point. Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make and explain why it was risky. Describe who the situation impacted, as well as the outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how your decision paid off or any recognition you received for your success. The goal of your response is to show the interviewer that you can analyze a situation and that you understand the importance of making well-calculated decisions, even if there is some risk involved.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would consider the riskiest decision I've made so far was my decision to step away from my family to pursue training in Anesthesiology. My father and two older brothers are in family practice, and I always thought that would be my path in life as well. As I progressed through medical school, I gravitated towards surgical and trauma care for patients, and my first rotation in Anesthesiology sold me on this career path. I initially feared backlash from my family for not carrying on the family tradition, but they couldn't have been more proud of my decision to branch away and do my own thing. The risk I took was breaking out of my comfort zone, and I couldn't be happier with my decision."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
21. When have you had to make a split second decision? How do you react under unexpected pressure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an Anesthesiologist, you will be put into some tense situations with patients with serious conditions. Your interviewer needs to be assured that you can make sound decisions under pressure and always take the safety and well-being of the patients into account.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Tell the interviewer about a specific time you had to make a split-second decision and made the right choice, despite being under unexpected pressure. Outline the situation, describe the last-minute decision you were required to make, and explain how you came to your final decision. Be sure to tell your interviewer that you made a well-calculated decision despite being under pressure. Give as much detail as you can regarding how you weighed the pros and cons of the decision. If your final decision made a measurable impact, be sure to discuss the results you generated.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"I thrive in high-pressure situations and am looking forward to bringing my skills in handling these situations to your institution. Last year, I was called to an incoming trauma case in our ER following a bad car accident. With two ambulances on the way with patients in bad condition, we prepared ourselves for the worst, like we always do. I was part of the initial evaluations of each patient. One of the patients was more critically injured than the other. I decided to assist with intubation and leave the other patient in the care of the rest of the ER team. In this situation, a quick triage was an easy decision based on the conditions of the patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
22. Tell me about a time you worked with a person who did things very differently than you. How did you collaborate effectively?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Since everyone's work style is unique in medical practice, it can be challenging to collaborate with everyone 100% of the time. The interviewers want assurance that you would join their department as a true team player, regardless of personality or work style differences that you would face.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
The goal of your response is to describe your approach to collaborating with others while highlighting how your collaboration style will be a good match for the entire team you are interviewing with. Answer this question by telling the interviewers about a specific time you worked with someone who approached their tasks or communication style differently than you. Outline the situation and explain why it was a challenge to collaborate with this person. Describe the specific actions you took to ensure a successful collaboration and the result.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my residency program, my fellow residents and I developed our own work styles and techniques. During the third year, we were tasked with leading a perioperative anesthesia care team. I noticed the different ways we led our teams. One of my colleagues led in a very authoritative manner, and that is the complete opposite of my collaborative style. Though this bothered me quite a bit, I had become very close with this colleague over the last couple of years, so I decided to talk with him in a very blunt way. He thanked me for the feedback and promised to work on his leadership skills."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
23. Talk about a time you had to work with a new technology. What did you do to ensure proficiency as quickly as possible?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Technological advancements in anesthesiology started by making anesthesia possible for patients and have advanced to make it safer over the years. As time moves forward, technology will continue to make it more efficient in the future. While you may be academically gifted, your interviewers need to get a sense that you would come to their institution with the ability to pick up and master any new technologies in the field during your time there.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a time you had to learn new technology, and ensure that your example proves your ability to study, learn, and master its use in short order. Then, as you answer, tell your interviewing team that you know you may be learning a new EMR and other medical equipment if you were to join their team and that you are willing and ready to be a great learner of any new technologies thrown your way during your time with them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"First and foremost, I want you to know that I would join your team willing and ready to embrace technology to provide the best patient care possible. I've always been enamored by the technological advancements in healthcare over the years. Last year, my department started utilizing a smartphone application for ultrasound monitoring, and this has been a huge breakthrough for monitoring central line placement and regional anesthesia. From the day we implemented the new technology, I worked with IT training staff to learn the ins and outs of the app. Today, I can monitor multiple patients at one time from anywhere in the hospital or home, and it has been game-changing for our practice."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
24. Have you ever had a disagreement with a peer or co-worker, and if so, how did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Disagreements are a natural part of any workplace due to simple human nature and differences of thoughts and opinions. This is especially true in a busy hospital setting, and your interviewer is well aware of this fact. What is important to your interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your colleagues.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Choose a situation during your training or career, and describe what caused the disagreement and how you worked to make the situation better following the conflict. Choose an example that shows you are willing to compromise or find alternative solutions to prove you will join this practice as a team player. As a successful Anesthesiologist, you will be expected to lead by example with all of your direct colleagues and support staff.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Although I consider myself to be easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. A couple of years ago, I saw a surgeon get pretty mad at a PACU nurse who he thought wasn't taking the proper steps with a patient awaking from anesthesia care. I realized that not only was he out of line but also very wrong in this situation. After he left the room, I reassured the nurse that what she was doing was correct, and she thanked me. Following that, I decided to give it some time before I spoke to the surgeon. He and I were very close colleagues, so I took a careful approach that was both respectful and direct. He quickly realized he had made a mistake and apologized to the nurse for his actions."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
25. Have you ever been responsible for or a part of the hiring process for new employees in an anesthesia department? If so, what qualities did you look for in a candidate? Do you feel like you possess those qualities?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There is more than one reason an interviewer might ask this question during your interview. First, your interviewer wants to know if you have been a part of the interview and hiring process for fellow Anesthesiologists, CRNAs, or other support staff. There's a good chance you will be involved in this process in this role. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others that you will work closely with in this position.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk openly and honestly about any parts of the candidate interview and hiring processes you have been part of in the past. This can include reviewing candidate resumes/CVs, phone interviewing, interviewing in person, and selecting candidates for offer. Talk about the qualities you look for in candidates. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. It's also important to note that interviewers often use this question to distinguish sincerity in the candidate.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I currently help screen the CVs for CRNA's that we consider for hire on our team and take part in the interview process. I love talking about our practice to sell them on coming to work for us. If hired here, I would love to continue to be a part of the hiring process for new staff. I look for candidates who have a patient-centered focus, integrity, and respect."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
26. Talk about a time you were stressed and under immense pressure on the job as an Anesthesiologist. How did you navigate that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewers know that a high percentage of Anesthesiologist report a high amount of stress in their work. As you are hopefully aware, this stress comes from the responsibility of the job, long hours, issues with drug shortages, and high pressure for production on the job. In asking this question, your interviewer wants to know that you will be able to handle high amounts of stress healthily and productively.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about how you effectively work through the daily stresses of the job to provide the best care possible to your patients. Acknowledge that you are not immune to stress, and explain that you have found ways to handle it well. You may talk about how you stay focused on the tasks at hand, how you commit to all aspects of your work, and how you keep your mental and physical health in great shape.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"My residency training in anesthesiology came at a time when healthcare institutions were under an immense amount of pressure from patient volume, and my training program wasn't immune to that. For the last year of my training, I spent countless hours on-call and working long night and weekend shifts. To successfully handle this workload and stress, I did my best to work on tasks one at a time and not let other tasks worry me. I developed great time management skills to ensure that all facets of my care were being taken care of, including charting. If hired for this position, you can be confident that I can handle any workload thrown my way."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
27. Tell me about a time you encountered a patient that was afraid of treatment and had to be educated further before following through with care.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an Anesthesiologist, you will often work with patients who are fearful of the medical situation they are in. Your interviewers want to hear that you have a calculated approach with fearful patients that is respectful, caring, and educational to put them at ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think of a time you calmed a patient who was afraid of a medical procedure. Explain why the patient was afraid, and describe the steps you took to put them at ease before their procedure. Stress your ability to calm a patient and educate them on the procedure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"A few months ago, I was on service in a busy labor and delivery unit. A first-time mother was extremely scared of needles, and the epidural made her extremely anxious. Knowing that many women are fearful of this procedure, I talked to her about my years of experience delivering epidurals and the exceedingly low rate of complications from the procedure. Then, I went into explaining all of the benefits of the procedure in her upcoming delivery. The key to calming the patient for the procedure is painting a clear picture for her and using the nursing staff to put her mind at ease during the quick procedure."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
28. Talk about the most difficult situation you've had communicating with a patient or their family prior to a procedure. How did you effectively navigate the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an anesthesiologist, you are often the first person the patient talks to about their pending procedure and the last person the patient speaks to before they are sedated. Your interviewer wants to know that you have strong communication skills, even in a difficult situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, think of a time you experienced a difficult situation while communicating with a patient or their family. There can be several reasons the communication was difficult, but your example should highlight how you took a calm, informative, and empathetic approach to communicate the next steps. As you answer, make sure your interviewer gets a sense of your overall communication style with patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"My communication objective is to ensure the patient understands the procedure and the necessary aftercare. I also do my best to make them comfortable enough to questions along the way. Last year, I worked on a critical case where the patient was unconscious after a car accident, and I was communicating with the patient's mother, who had just arrived in the OR waiting area. She was extremely emotional. I gave the mother time to collect her thoughts and then slowly walked her through the steps of the operation. Though she continued to sob, I respectfully maintained eye contact with her and reiterated that the coming hours were going to be critical in saving her child's life. In the end, the plan for pre-op and post-op was communicated and understood, and we left the mother with instructions to find our cafeteria and to call other family members."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
29. Have you ever had to handle a larger than normal case load as an Anesthesiologist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Time management skills are crucial for a successful anesthesiologist. You need a system to keep track of your multiple patients and projects. Tell the interviewer about the system you utilize to manage your time.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about how you manage your time using any tools and resources available to you as an Anesthesiologist. You should also highlight how you have utilized a true team effort in the situation. No matter how you answer, be sure your interviewer understands that you remain focused on the safety and well-being of your patients, even when things get hectic on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"Time management is important for meeting deadlines and being successful as an Anesthesiologist. While there are general activities that are ongoing in my role, I strive to put my patients' needs first. When necessary, I adapt and remain flexible in my time management. For the past year, my hospital's patient load has been through the roof, and the staff has had to work extra days and long hours. I manage these situations by handling one patient at a time and focusing all of my attention on them. While it can be difficult to not worry about other things, a focused mindset ensures the best care for patients."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Behavioral Anesthesiologist
30. As an anesthesiologist, have you ever had a patient not survive surgery? How did you handle that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As an Anesthesiologist, you will work with patients in extreme medical need. Sometimes, this means they will not survive their procedure. Your interviewer poses this question to ensure that you can show compassion and empathy while not becoming emotionally attached to any patient you care for.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
How to Answer
Be open and honest when telling the interviewer about a time a patient didn't make it out of surgery. As you discuss how you reacted and what you learned from the situation, be sure to thoroughly explain how you managed your emotions in that situation to prove that you would never let your emotions get in the way of being a great Anesthesiologist.
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a medical professional, I know that the unthinkable can happen at any time. As an Anesthesiologist, I have a very unique relationship with patients because I often meet them just before major surgery, and our conversations are brief. But in this short time, I can learn so much about a patient. Last year, I helped a Surgical Oncologist with a very young patient who was having a risky surgery to remove a brain tumor. Knowing that the tumor wasn't shrinking and life expectancy was short, the parents opted for the surgery. Talking to the patient and the family before the procedure gave me hope because of their positivity in the most difficult of situations. Shortly after the operation, the patient passed. It was the most emotional I have ever been during my career. I was confident that I did my job properly, and so was the surgeon. When the family took the time to come and thank the whole team for our efforts, we were all much more at ease."
Written by Ryan Brunner on January 27th, 2022