30 NHS Band 4 Dental Nurse Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 4 Dental Nurse interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 10 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. This can be a stressful environment. How do you manage stress and a work-life balance?
How to Answer
Healthcare workers, especially nurses, are prone to burnout, so the NHS is proactive in preventing this among their team. The interviewer is being transparent about the potential environment you may be working in and wants to know that you can be successful in this type of fast-paced setting. They want to hear that you will be able to handle the pressure and that you have experience dealing with stress in the workplace. Describe some techniques that you use to manage stress at work and give examples of how you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Examples could include taking breaks, shutting off your work phone/email where appropriate, prioritizing health and wellness, exercising, and open communication with your manager.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"To manage my stress at work, I keep myself organized as I find that not having a to-do list or not knowing what my week looks like ahead of time causes chaos and reduces productivity. I make sure I keep the lines of communication open with my manager so that I can share with them when I'm feeling overwhelmed or when I can take on more tasks to support the team. At home, I make a strong effort to keep a healthy balance by spending my free time away from my cell phone and having more face-to-face time with my friends and family. I engage in activities that I enjoy, like biking and reading during my off hours. I can focus my energy more at work by consistently recharging this way."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Behavioral
2. What do you feel is one of your weaknesses, either professionally or personally?
How to Answer
This question provides insight into your self-awareness and understanding of where you may need development and if you're open to learning and growing in those areas of deficiency. Give an example that is relevant and professional and one that would not be essential to the job you've applied for at the NHS. Also, discuss how you're currently working to improve in this area. Demonstrating that you can identify an area of self-improvement and work on a plan to overcome it reflects your commitment to growth and development.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Sometimes, I struggle to say no to taking on additional tasks when my plate is already full. I'm a team player, love to help others, and like to be seen as someone reliable, so I'm inclined to say yes when others need help. I'm working on being more honest with myself about what I can accomplish within my scheduled hours and limiting how many extra duties or tasks I take on. I work closely with my direct manager to discuss priorities and to better understand where she would like me to pick up and support others."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Behavioral
3. What qualities or characteristics do you feel make you the ideal candidate or this role?
How to Answer
Dental nurses must possess many technical, interpersonal, and soft skills to be effective and successful in their role within the NHS. Review the job description and note keywords like "compassionate, enthusiastic, detail-oriented, team-oriented, able to perform under pressure, etc., to give you an idea of the specific characteristics the interviewer is looking for. In your response, provide a mix of the value you bring to the team through your technical skills, personality, experiences, and soft skills.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I possess well-developed interpersonal skills, so I'm able to care for and build relationships with patients of all ages. I communicate with patients, so they know what to expect and so that I can address their concerns or fears while they are being treated. I also keep a positive and friendly tone so that patients are comfortable and feel they can approach me. I also work well under pressure and in a fast-paced environment. I'm not easily rattled or stressed, so the dental team can count on me to be there to support them and the patients. Lastly, I really enjoy working as part of a team. I value all team members, and when we collaborate and communicate effectively, patients receive the highest-quality care possible and are more likely to have a positive experience."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Behavioral
4. At the NHS, one of our core values is "improving lives." What does this mean to you as a dental nurse?
How to Answer
According to the NHS website, '"All come to the NHS in need of help, and the organization and its staff must recognize that they play an important role in improving the quality of life for everyone they treat. By highlighting this value, the NHS aims to offer the best patient experience possible and to continuously improve its facilities and services." The interviewer is asking this question to probe into how you personally improve the lives of patients you treat as a dental nurse. Give some insight into what this core value means to you and how you would demonstrate your commitment to improving lives in the workplace.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"A majority of our patients come to see us because they have a problem with their teeth or gums that is causing them pain. As a dental nurse, it's rewarding to be able to care for patients and provide treatment that will bring them relief from pain and at times, improve their appearance, giving them more confidence if we're fixing a cracked tooth or creating implants for them. Our job as dental professionals is to help patients be well by educating them on appropriate oral hygiene and healthy habits. I'm really interested in working for the NHS, knowing that patients of all backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses can seek treatment to improve and maintain their health."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Behavioral
5. Why do you feel it's important to build and maintain relationships with your team in the workplace?
How to Answer
The NHS has many different areas of the organisation, but within each one, employees across various departments work together for a common organisational goal - "to provide care and services that we and our families would want to use." That collaboration is formed through strong relationships among the team. Speak to the interviewer about your personal views on the importance of developing relationships with your colleagues. Consider aspects like increased innovation and productivity, a more enjoyable work environment, better patient outcomes, less stress, and less turnover.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Since we spend the majority of our day in the workplace, it's fair to say that employees want the workplace to be enjoyable and a place they look forward to coming into every day. When the atmosphere is positive and collaborative, the team will provide quality experiences for patients. If colleagues aren't communicating and working together or are arguing or complaining, the patients will have a negative experience and may not return to the practice. Building and maintaining relationships within the team also improves morale, increases productivity, retention rates, knowledge, and skills as others work together and learn from one another, and also promotes innovation and creativity."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Behavioral
6. Respect and dignity are core values at the NHS. As a new employee, how will you gain the trust of patients and their families?
How to Answer
To be an effective nurse, you must build trust and relationships with your patients and sometimes their families or caregivers. Dental nurses who take the time to get to know their patients and understand their emotional and physical needs can provide higher-quality care and improve patient outcomes. You may be the main point of contact for patient inquiries, concerns and communication, so patients need to know they can trust and count on you to be there for them to meet their needs. Because patients typically interact with nurses more than other clinical team members, your interactions will significantly influence the patient's overall experience.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I will build trust and relationships with new patients by effectively communicating and being honest and transparent with patients. For example, it's important not to over-promise or commit to things you cannot deliver on. If a patient requests something, it's easy to get caught up in other tasks and forget to come back to complete their request, but it's important that if you say you're going to do something, you do it and in a timely manner. Following through shows patients, they can rely on you to do what you say you will do. I will also communicate with them regularly so they know what to expect and answer any questions or concerns they may have. If the dentist is running behind, I let them know what's happening and the why behind it. My personal philosophy is always to lead by example, and I find that's the best way to build trust and rapport."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
7. Describe two best practices for infection control.
How to Answer
You will be responsible for promoting infection control throughout patient interactions and in your day-to-day duties. The interviewer at the NHS will want to ensure you're familiar with infection control practices and may test your knowledge by asking you to give two specific examples. Consider topics like hand hygiene, safe management and care of the environment, sterilization and decontamination of various equipment and instruments, cough and respiratory hygiene, or PPE usage. Provide two specific examples relevant to the position you're applying for.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Infection control is extremely important in this setting to reduce the risk and prevent the spread of infection between patients and staff. One way we do this in the office is by ensuring that chairs and other surfaces patients have touched are thoroughly wiped down with a disinfectant before the next patient enters the room. Another example of a best practice is proper hand washing throughout the day. The World Health Organisation recommends handwashing before touching a patient, before performing a clean/aseptic procedure, after any bodily fluid exposure risk, and after touching the patient or the patient's surroundings. Proper handwashing should be done for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap, followed by drying with a clean and disposable paper towel."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
8. Have you taken any extra courses or topics related to dental nursing?
How to Answer
The interviewer has likely already inquired about your formal education and now wants to learn if you've taken any extra courses or training on your own time to further your training and skills. Consider topics like continued training in elderly oral care, managing dental emergencies, patient education, training for unconscious patients, patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy, etc., that you may have completed since graduating. Provide the interviewer with your extra education, and if you haven't completed any, be honest and describe topics or training you would be interested in pursuing.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm very passionate about continued education and have taken several extra courses and workshops in the past two years to expand my knowledge. One area of interest to me has been regarding dental care for patients who are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatments. Our practice treated many adults with oral cancer over the years, so I felt it valuable to further my education and training in this area so that I could provide better care and education for my patients. Another interest of mine was how certain oral medications could impact patients so I took a two-day workshop on the effects of medications in dentistry, which covered topics like dry mouth, oral ulcers, change in taste, yeast infections, and tooth decay. I would be very interested in continuing my education with various workshops, seminars, and online training."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
9. What are some ways that you protect patient data in the workplace?
How to Answer
All employees at the NHS must be knowledgeable about when and how to protect sensitive or private information. Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of protecting patient information in the workplace and consider ways you ensure patient information is not left in public places or stored inappropriately. Perhaps you speak in a lower voice when relaying confidential information, so other patients don't overhear, or maybe you lock your computer anytime you leave your workstation. When responding, give an overview of your experience in healthcare protecting this type of data and examples of ways you ensure patient information is safe.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I take patient privacy very seriously and ensure I protect it at all times. My workstation computer is always locked when I'm away from my desk, I never leave charts laid out in the open, and I protect all documents on my desk from outside view. When I communicate with a patient's family and friends inquiring about patient statuses, I always check their file to see who they have given consent to receive information. Additionally, I maintain a low voice volume in the clinic, so that other patients do not overhear sensitive information of other patients nearby."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
10. Can you name three frequently used dental instruments used in surgical procedures and give me a brief description of each?
How to Answer
This question allows the interviewer to assess your knowledge base of dental instruments and their uses. Since many of the dental nurse roles require you to use specific instruments and tools in patient care and treatments, as well as to be able to manage the sanitization and disinfection of those instruments, it's critical to demonstrate your knowledge in your response. Provide three examples of dental instruments or tools that you're familiar with and frequently handle, as well as a brief description of the function and use of each.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"One tool that I'm familiar with that we frequently use in procedures is the extracting forceps. These are used to dig or pull out teeth during a procedure. Another is the ultrasonic scaler, which is an instrument used to remove tartar or calculus from the tooth. Lastly, a saliva ejector is frequently used to eliminate excess saliva or water from the mouth and oral cavity during dental procedures. I'm familiar with many tools and also how to sanitize and sterilize them to prevent the spread of infectious diseases."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
11. What are some symptoms a patient with a tooth infection might experience?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to explore your knowledge and experience with common situations you may experience in the dental care setting. While tooth infections can seem minor, if left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body causing serious and potentially life threatening complications, so it's something that a dental nurse must be able to recognize and treat. Give the interviewer some insight into your knowledge and provide a couple of symptoms that you look for to help you identify tooth infections when caring for patients.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Tooth infections can occur in patients of all ages. Typically, some of the first symptoms a patient experiences are toothache, pain when chewing, and sensitivity of the tooth. Signs of tooth infection are not limited to those, however, and patients can sometimes experience foul breath odour, swollen glands, or a bitter taste in their mouth. We encourage patients to make an appointment at the first sign of these symptoms so they can get treatment quickly."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
12. What are some common dental issues that the elderly face relating to their dental health?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to test your knowledge and understand if you're familiar with common dental issues the elderly population faces. Because of cognitive limitations, communication barriers, medical conditions, medication use, and mobility limitations, this age group is more susceptible to certain conditions and diseases. In your response, share a glimpse of your experience working with elderly patients and the common dental issues or diseases you frequently encounter.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have worked with elderly patients over the last several years, and I have seen a handful of common issues and illnesses in this age group. Untreated tooth decay is the most frequent, which is easy to understand as many older adults don't have the mobility and cognitive abilities to brush their teeth and floss regularly, leading to cavities. Also, most older adults take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs, many of which can cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities. Gum disease and tooth loss are other issues. Having missing teeth or wearing dentures can affect nutrition, so it's important to help educate family or caregivers about this potential issue, so they can take measures to prevent this from happening. Lastly, I have seen a lot of cases of oral cancer diagnoses in older adults, so part of my job includes educating younger patients on the risks of using tobacco products."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
13. What are some of your best practices when working with a new patient?
How to Answer
It's essential that you possess the interpersonal skills and bedside skills to make an excellent first impression on a new patient and begin to build a trusting relationship with them. Think about the ways that the experience of a new patient may differ from other patients. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you understand the importance of instilling trust in a new patient and provide examples of how you interact and engage with them. Perhaps you take more time to introduce yourself and make small talk to break the ice and get a better feel for their comfort level at the dentist. Also, consider ways that your approach differs in reviewing their chart or creating a care plan.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I first always introduce myself and greet them with a smile. I want them to feel comfortable while in my care, so I usually engage in a light-hearted conversation before working with them. I might ask them about their length of time at the practice, their family, or some of their hobbies to break the ice and build that relationship. As I get into their care and treatment, I review their history to familiarize myself with their health conditions and to make sure I don't miss any important details from reviewing the chart. As with any patient, I educate them along the way so they know what to expect and I answer any questions they may have."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
14. What can you tell me about the sterilization process for dental equipment?
How to Answer
For many dental nurse roles, a major responsibility assigned is the sterilizing of dental tools and equipment. The interviewer wants to hear that you know what sterilization is, why it's important, and that you're familiar with what types of tools and equipment need to go through this process. Many healthcare organisations, such as the NHS, must adhere to strict health and safety requirements, so it's critical that you're familiar with this process and can fulfil the duties of the job without jeopardizing the organisation. Discuss with the interviewer why sterilization is important in the dental setting and provide examples of tools that must be disinfected through the process."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"The process of sterilization is important to clean and disinfect dental tools used in procedures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases among patients and staff. It can be done by way of instance heating and also chemicals. Autoclaving is a very dependable method for sterilization and can inactivate fungi, bacteria, spores, viruses, and other microorganisms on surgical instruments. Examples of dental instruments which need heat sterilization (or autoclave) processed include all stainless steel, tungsten carbide, and Teflon-coated dental hand tools, air-water syringe hints, ultrasonic periodontal scalers, metallic perception trays, high-volume evacuator tips and some intra-oral radiographic equipment to name a few."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
15. Many patients experience anxiety at the dentist. How do you help calm or ease those anxieties when working with patients?
How to Answer
You must possess interpersonal and communication skills, critical thinking, and well-developed problem-solving skills to handle these situations. It's not uncommon for patients, especially pediatric patients, to be anxious and be hesitant to participate and may even refuse treatment or medication, so it's crucial to demonstrate to the interviewer that you have a strategy to overcome this. Describe how you communicate with patients, show empathy and patience, and persuade your patients to cooperate with treatment plans.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Many patients, young and old, have anxieties about surgical procedures, and some even have those anxieties with routine check-ups. Our office tries to provide a calming environment, with relaxing music, soft lighting throughout the office where possible, and even calming paint colours. Pleasant distractions like a television to watch is especially helpful when working with children. We try to reduce noise so that the sounds of drills or other tools do not frighten other patients who may already be experiencing anxiety. When working directly with the patient, I explain every step of the process or procedure so they know what I'm doing and what to expect. I also pause if they have any questions or concerns or need to take a break. Patience is important when working with patients who have fears or anxieties and using reassuring words and encouragement can also be helpful throughout the treatment to help them relax."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
16. How do you provide post-operative instructions to your patients?
How to Answer
One responsibility of this role could include providing post-operative care instructions to patients upon discharge. This question allows the interviewer to learn more about your process of relaying information and gain insight into your communication skills. Walk the interviewer through ways that you share instructions with the patient and caregivers, explain the why behind those recommendations and directions, what to be on the lookout for as they recover, and your ability to answer their questions or concerns.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I usually go over the information with the patient and a family member or friend, if possible, so that everyone has the information who will be caring for the patient at home. When reviewing the instructions, I discuss them verbally, but I also provide written instructions and information for the patient to take home and reference, and I offer to email it to them. It's important to set proper expectations with the patient so they can prepare themselves for what is to come, especially if they could experience significant pain or swelling in the next hours or days. I also go over what is normal and if a common issue should arise post-surgery, how to treat it at home, and when to call the office. I always explain the why behind the reason the patient is supposed to abstain from an action or habit so that they know the consequences, such as additional pain, rework of the procedure or other damage the action may cause. Lastly, I answer any questions they have and let them know I will be calling in a day or two to check in and follow up on their recovery process."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Competency
17. At the NHS, we put a great amount of focus on the patient experience. How would you help ensure a positive experience for all patients that you work with here?
How to Answer
The overall patient experience entails the entire range of interactions patients have with their healthcare team, from receptionist to hygienist to dentist. No matter the setting, nurses at the NHS focus on the quality of care they provide to patients, and the patient experience is a cornerstone of that focus. If hired as their next nurse, the organisation will expect you to positively influence the experience of the patients you will be working with daily. While many aspects of the patient experience are out of your control as a nurse, some things to consider as you answer this question are your bedside manner, responsiveness to patients, follow-through, and communication.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"Many patients are nervous or anxious when they are going to have a dental procedure done, so I go above and beyond to help calm their nerves and reassure them that they are in good hands. It's important that they know we want to make every effort to help them get well and return home as quickly as possible. I strive to make them comfortable, whether that's spending extra time explaining what we will be doing, helping them find an audiobook to distract them, or helping them find soothing music on the radio. I check in with my patients often to ask how they are feeling so they know I genuinely care for them. I seek patients' feedback often, so I know how I can improve my interactions with them and improve their experience with us. My goal is to meet their basic needs, then exceed their expectations for kind, compassionate care."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
18. Do you currently possess a Certificate in Conscious Sedation?
How to Answer
For some of the dental nurse roles at the NHS, you may be required to assist the clinician during conscious sedation, including relative analgesia sedation. This requires you to possess a Certificate of Conscious Sedation. If you possess this certificate, confirm that for the interviewer and provide details of when you obtained the certificate and when it expires (if applicable). If you do not possess this certificate, demonstrate your interest and willingness to complete the training necessary.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have not formally trained or earned a Certificate of Conscious Sedation at this time. It's something I've interested in pursuing so that I can advance my skills and add value to my future team. Does the NHS provide any training and certification opportunities for this?"
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
19. What interested you in dental nursing?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn more about why you chose the nursing field and, more specifically, the dental nurse path as a career. This question is very personal, so briefly give the interviewer some insight into what motivated you to pursue becoming a dental nurse. Perhaps you had an impactful experience with a dental nurse in the past, and that interaction led to your decision, or maybe you have family or friends who have been dental nurses, and they inspired you. If you have a unique story that led to your decision, feel free to share that and give a meaningful answer that demonstrates your passion for the field.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare and nursing, more specifically, as I loved the hands-on aspect of the role and being able to help improve the lives of others. I explored different nursing positions and liked the idea of being a dental nurse for a number of reasons. It was a steady career choice because dental care will always be in need for adults and paediatrics, and the scheduling requirements being mostly day shift Monday-Friday fit well with my lifestyle. On a more personal note, I really enjoy working with patients of all ages, and in the dental clinic, I feel I'm able to really spend time with patients one-on-one because the patient volumes are a bit lower than they would be in a hospital setting, for example. I have been a dental nurse for about five years and absolutely love the work that I do every day."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
20. What motivates you in the workplace?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn what you're passionate about and what drives you both personally and professionally. Speak about what excites you and motivates you to do the job every day. Be sure you answer honestly, and ensure your answer is relevant to the position you're applying for. Avoid giving examples that don't align with the position. For example, if you're an introvert and being alone recharges you, but this role requires a lot of patient and coworker interfacing, avoid using that example.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I am motivated by the ability to make a positive impact on the lives of others through the work that I do. I know that for many people, visiting the dentist can be a negative experience that causes fear or anxiety, so I'm motivated to help them be comfortable and feel safe in this environment. I find being a dental nurse to be very rewarding, and I find such value and purpose in providing quality care to those in need and knowing I'm improving their quality of life through their health and wellbeing."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
21. What do you feel are the core responsibilities of a dental nurse?
How to Answer
To be able to answer this question effectively, you must be familiar with the scope and duties of a dental nurse from a technical perspective as well as a holistic perspective. Be sure you've read the job description to understand the role the dental nurse plays, and give some insight into what you think you would be responsible for in this role. In your response, also include soft skills that you will need to demonstrate in this role, like providing compassionate care to patients or ensuring the safety and wellness of patients both physically and emotionally.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"In a dental practice, I feel the core responsibilities of the dental nurse would include providing direct support with patient treatments, decontaminating the instruments and equipment, ensuring that all relevant materials and supplies are in place in the rooms, looking after patient records, including documenting when the dentist is examining a patient, working closely with the dentist, responding quickly to requests and generally keeping the surgery area ready for use. I would also be responsible for ensuring patients feel safe, secure, and comfortable throughout their visit or treatment and answering any questions or concerns they might have. I do have experience with all of these areas of responsibility and would feel comfortable performing these tasks in this role as well."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
22. Are there any trending topics in dentistry that interest you?
How to Answer
It's important that employees and providers stay current on trends in technology, care, and treatment options. Following the latest trends in dentistry promotes innovation and ideas that will improve the patient experience while demonstrating that your practice is forward-thinking and committed to continuous improvement. Choose a topic of interest and give a brief explanation as to why that topic or trend interests you.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm really interested in 3D printing in dentistry. I understand that technological abilities have advanced so far as being able to create implants, crowns, bridges, anatomical replicas, and models. In the past, creating dental implants and molds was a cumbersome, invasive, and at times uncomfortable procedure. 3D printing has significantly simplified and improved the work of treating patients and I would love to learn more about this process."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
23. Why are you leaving your current job?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to learn more about why you've made the decision to pursue new opportunities. Discuss with the interviewer your reason for leaving your current employer, then explain what makes the role at the NHS appealing to you. Maintain a positive and professional tone; avoid complaining about your current or previous company, manager, or team, as hiring managers usually see this as a red flag. Instead, give a more general reason like "I'm looking for more opportunities for growth," "I'm ready to explore new industries and expand my skillset and experience," "I'm looking for a shorter commute, etc., "
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"As a recent graduate, this would be my first nursing position. I have done a lot of research on employers in this area, and I was impressed with the size and recognition of the NHS. As one of the world's largest employers, I feel this would be a great place to get established, learn, and grow in my career. The employee reviews were exceptional, and I feel I would be a good cultural fit. I'm excited to learn more about this opportunity!"
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Discovery
24. What interested you in applying for this role with the NHS?
How to Answer
Dental nurses have many employer options, so the interviewer is trying to learn more about what attracted you to apply with the NHS. Check out the organisation's website and familiarize yourself with its mission, vision, core values, and any specific awards or accomplishments that impressed you. Give an honest answer about why you want to work at the NHS.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"The NHS is one of the largest employers in the world, so I feel I could find stability in my career as well as growth and development opportunities. I want to join an organisation focused on patient care with the most modern technology and equipment available to its patients. I align with the core values of the NHS of compassionate and quality care, respect for patients, and a mentality that everyone counts, so I feel it would be a great cultural fit as well."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Experience
25. Can you give me an overview of your education and experience as a dental nurse?
How to Answer
The interviewer may not have had an opportunity to review your CV or application, so be prepared to give a high-level overview of your experience and education. When speaking about your experience, provide your total years of experience, describe the settings you have worked and provide some insight into the patient populations you have worked with. Then provide the interviewer with details about your education and certifications and any other training relevant to the position you're applying for with the NHS.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
" I currently possess my NEBDN National Certificate in Dental Nursing and have taken additional courses in current health and safety regulations including adherence to COSHH guidelines and ionising radiation regulations, and compliance with HTM 01 05 infection control procedures. I have been working as a dental nurse for three years, all of which have been in a private practice. In this setting, I've worked with patients ranging from young adult age to the elderly."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Experience
26. What experience do you have assisting with dental screen programmes?
How to Answer
Some dental nurse roles at the NHS require participation in various dental screen programmes. Provide the interviewer with your background and experience in this area, including the setting, age groups of patients served, and your responsibilities in the screenings. This is a good opportunity to demonstrate your passion for serving others in the community through outreach and education efforts. If you do not have experience in this area, express your desire to learn and be a part of the programmes and highlight transferable technical and soft skills that would make you effective such as interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work with the public.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"In my previous job, I supported school dental screenings in the primary school. This programme involved the dental professional team examining children's mouths and teeth at school and letting parents know about their child's oral condition, treatment needs, and follow-up recommendations. The screens were intended to identify oral health concerns at an early stage and prompt parents to seek treatment as necessary. My responsibilities in the screenings were overseeing teeth cleanings, conducting exams, and providing education on appropriate tooth brushing techniques and other oral care hygiene."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Situational
27. Tell me about a time you experienced a conflict with a coworker.
How to Answer
It's normal to occasionally experience conflict in the workplace, especially when working with people daily. As a dental nurse, you will likely work with dentists, hygienists, other clinicians, admin staff, etc., so you must have well-developed interpersonal skills. Give the interviewer an example of a time you experienced conflict in the workplace and describe the situation, how you approached it or addressed it, and what the outcome was. Refrain from speaking negatively about past coworkers and focus on the positives of the situation.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"I had worked in general practice for many years and had built relationships with many of the patients. We had hired a new employee, and soon after, patients would come to me and complain about this employee being too rough during routine cleanings. Several said that this person made their mouth bleed or caused discomfort for a day or so after their visit. I shared this with my supervisor at the time, but offered to address it with the new employee first. I let my coworker know that the patients had mentioned some soreness and bleeding after their visit and reminded them that many of our patients are older adults and may have more sensitivity. I offered to have them practice a cleaning on me so that I could provide feedback in real-time, without judgment. The employee was receptive to the feedback and was open to what I shared with them after my experience. They genuinely wanted to improve and didn't seem to realize the mistakes they were making. Sometimes, we make mistakes and don't realize it, so I think it's important to first address directly with the person so they can have an opportunity to fix their mistake before it escalates to disciplinary action."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Situational
28. How would you educate a patient who was concerned about the effects of receiving an x-ray?
How to Answer
This question tests your technical knowledge as well as your ability to communicate effectively to educate and persuade a patient to participate in their recommended dental care. In your answer, be sure to acknowledge that the patient ultimately has the right to refuse, but take ownership of providing education so the patient can make an informed decision regarding their health and care plan. In your response, demonstrate soft skills like empathy, compassion, active listening, and respect for the patient's concerns.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"In this situation, I would first commend the patient for having the courage to speak up and ask questions so that they can make an informed decision on what they feel is best for their health. In my response, I would be respectful and empathetic to their concerns. I would provide recommendations and facts from credible sources like the Dental Health Society or World Health Organisation, so that they would trust the information. In my conversation, I would acknowledge their concerns and share that x-rays are among the safest and most reliable imaging technologies available today. I would reassure them that we're trained in the safe use of x-rays and we use protective aprons that block over 90% of exposure, which is less exposure than from other radioactive medical imaging technologies and natural sources. I would further explain the benefits versus the risks, especially if they were having tooth pain or other conditions that may not be accurately diagnosed and treated without an x-ray. Ultimately, I would do my best to educate them; however, the final decision would be theirs to make."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Situational
29. How do you handle a patient who complains a lot?
How to Answer
In this role, you will likely work with patients of all ages. It's only natural that, at some point, you will encounter a patient who complains about their experience. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you can acknowledge their concerns, actively listen to identify the issues and address them, and treat the patient with kindness, respect, and empathy. This question allows the interviewer to gain more insight into your personality and demeanor and how you respond to difficult patients. If you provide an example, be sure not to share the patient's name or other identifying information. If you don't have a specific example to share, walk the interviewer through your process to identify and address the complaints.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"If I have a patient that I feel is frequently complaining, I usually try to address the root issue. For example, if it's a simple complaint about the temperature in the office, I have no problem getting them a warm blanket to make them more comfortable. Perhaps they are just nervous, and that nervous energy is coming out in the form of negativity, or maybe no one explained the process, procedure, or the why behind a recommendation to the patient. Often, a lack of understanding can lead to the patient feeling frustrated and negative, resulting in complaining. I do my best to answer their questions, reassure them and keep a positive tone. Sometimes a little encouragement and reassurance will help reduce their complaints."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Situational
30. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a patient.
How to Answer
The NHS is focused on providing exceptional patient care and achieving high patient satisfaction ratings. A question relating to your ability to go that extra mile for patients will likely come up in some form, so have an example ready to share with the interviewer. Perhaps a patient had a situation that required creative problem-solving and thinking outside the box, or maybe they faced a difficult situation that you supported them through.
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023
Answer Example
"We have a special needs patient that has been coming to our practice for years. When he first came to see us, he was very anxious about being at the dentist, and his mother would often have to accompany him for basic cleanings and care. Over the years, I was able to build trust with him enough to where he can now come in without his mother escorting him. He is very particular and only likes certain staff assisting him, so I always clear my schedule and ensure that I can be there to provide care during his appointments to make it as comfortable and routine for him. He requires extra time and patience, but I love knowing he can feel safe and comfortable in our practice with our team at his side. He loves even numbers, so he will often have special requests, like to floss his teeth twice or to have two tubes of toothpaste when he leaves the office. I'm always happy to accommodate him so that he can continue to have a positive experience and to continue to come and see us for his care and treatment."
Written by Jaymie Payne on February 10th, 2023