Tell us about a time that you demonstrated patience with one of your patients.

By asking these questions, your interviewer is looking to hear that patience is one of the best traits you will bring to their team as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Because you will often be working with patients that may be scared or irritable, a patient and understanding approach is critical. Tell the interviewer about a time that the patience displayed was recognized by leadership, co-workers, or even another patient. Be sure to tell the interviewer that you strive to show that same patience every day you work with your patients.

"Recently, I offered to help one of my patients get dressed because I knew that he was having some recent mobility issues. He was quite adamant that he could dress himself and do it safely. I let him know that I was available if he needed me, but he insisted he didn't. I knew I could've dressed him quicker on my own but also knew that he wanted to do it on his own. I respected his request and wanted him to have his own independence, so I stayed in his room in case he needed me and helped him to his chair once he was ready. We had a nice chat after that about what he wanted to do later that day. In times like these, I use my best discretion on doing what is best for the patient while also considering their safety as the most important factor."