How to Answer: If you were working here with a patient that insisted their personal hygiene was fine and it wasn't, what would you do?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Certified Nursing Assistant job interview.
19. If you were working here with a patient that insisted their personal hygiene was fine and it wasn't, what would you do?
How to Answer
This is a tough topic to discuss with patients, but an important one that you need to handle with class at this organization. It can often be uncomfortable and embarrassing for the patient. Ideally, your interviewer will be looking to hear that you take a direct yet personable approach with your patients. If you have an example of when you had to do this, don't hesitate to talk about how you navigated that situation. Just make sure to not use any names or embarrassing details as you answer.
Written by Heather Douglass on August 10th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"One of my sweet elderly patients, unfortunately, didn't wear deodorant and really needed to. After sitting with her and talking about some of her likes and dislikes, she told me about her favorite perfume. I decided to surprise her with a small present later that week. I wrapped up a bottle of her favorite perfume as well as a deodorant. My subtle and nonconfrontational approach worked, and she was very thankful."
Written by Heather Douglass on August 10th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"As a new CNA, I haven't had to address that type of concern yet with a patient. When the time does come, I won't hesitate to be upfront and honest with the patient while educating them on the importance of good self-care and personal hygiene."
Written by Heather Douglass on August 10th, 2021