As an anesthesiologist, have you ever had a patient not survive surgery? How did you handle that situation?

"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."

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.