How to Answer: What routines or tools do you use to keep yourself accountable at work?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Entry-Level Nursing job interview.
35. What routines or tools do you use to keep yourself accountable at work?
How to Answer
Prospective employers seek employees who can manage themselves with oversight. Being able to prioritize and organize your day to maximize results are powerful attributes. Nursing is part art and science, and no two days are alike. Employees seek individuals with organizational aptitude and creative problem-solving, so your answer here should demonstrate your organization and flexibility.
Written by Dianne Barnard on February 15th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"As a nurse, I am accountable to my patients per the professional code of conduct. For me to do that, I need to be accountable to myself and my coworkers as well. I take my health and wellness seriously so I can bring my best self to the job. I enjoy hobbies like crocheting, which is very peaceful and good for my mental health. I enjoy family time. I organize my week with this awesome planner and prioritize Sunday meal prep so I don't eat junk. Every couple of days, I schedule three or four hours of downtime so I have time to enjoy or handle urgent tasks that come up. I cannot plan everything, but I do my best to find a balance so I can bring my best to the job. I bring my brightest and healthiest self to work and use that as a platform to build an organized and productive day for my patients and coworkers."
Written by Dianne Barnard on February 15th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have a shift 'cheat sheet' that I developed based on the cheat sheets of two different preceptors I worked with. These allow me to ensure I've done all of my assessments, given all medications and treatments, and that all of my charting is complete before the end of a shift."
Written by Kate Buckley on December 21st, 2022
About the Author
I began my healthcare career when I was a sophomore in high school and became an STNA (state-tested nursing assistant) at a local long-term care facility. I then went on to work as a nursing assistant at a local hospital and home healthcare agency. During that time, I pursued my Bachelor's in Business Administration: Human Resource Management and transitioned to working for one of the largest long-term care and post-acute rehab companies in the country. I supported the talent acquisition function and in the span of 8 years, I screened and interviewed over 1,500 nurse aides, LPNs, and RNs.
I hold a very special place in my heart for nurses, as it's often a thankless and tiresome job. Not everyone is cut out to be a nurse and I have great respect and admiration for those that choose this career path. As a content writer and interview coach for MockQuestions, my goal is to help you prepare and succeed in your upcoming interview. This article offers interview tips and advice along with 40 practice interview questions and answer examples to help you better understand what to expect and prepare for interview day! Wishing you the best of luck!
Learn more about Jaymie Payne