You and a peer are waiting on a patient's blood work. You tell the peer one of you should contact the lab and not wait. The results could make a difference overnight. It is the end of the shift; your partner says it can wait and leaves. What do you do?
Your interviewing team will be interested in the overall dedication to patient care that each potential resident has. This is a question about dedication and putting the patient first.
"There are two ways to handle this. First, I could tell the new team that the labs need to be addressed and get their assurance that they'll follow up. Alternatively, I could do it myself. The only way I can be sure it gets done is by doing it myself, even if it means staying beyond my shift. Since my team ordered the test, it is my responsibility. I would also tell my peer that I expect the same level of dedication from both of us and that our team is only as good as its weakest link."
Another team will likely be taking over at the end of the shift, but if the lab results are not dealt with right away, a lot can happen in the meantime. Let the interviewer know that you believe that any test ordered obligates the one ordering it to act upon it as soon as it is ready. You may also mention how you would handle your peer who did not wait.
"Patient safety should always come first. I would personally try to contact the lab to get the results of the patient's blood work. If the result was still not available, I would sign out the information to the overnight resident. I would emphasize that this is something important to follow up on."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
If it can make the difference then it is worth calling the lab. It is ok if I stay 5 or 10 minutes on the phone after my shift.
Chad's Feedback
Great answer! The interviewer will appreciate your dedication and a strong sense of duty. Next, describe any action you would take to address your partner's lack of ethical responsibility.
