29 NHS Band 5 Physiotherapy Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our NHS Band 5 Physiotherapy interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Compatibility
1. When seeking a new position, what aspects of the job or organisation are most important to you?
How to Answer
This is a personal question that allows the interviewer to understand what is important to you and what you're seeking in your next role. Consider things like work-life balance, teamwork, and collaboration, strong leadership, ability to make an impact, growth and development, advancement opportunities, etc. Avoid speaking negatively about a previous employer or mentioning things like a toxic work environment or poor leadership, and try to focus more on the positive perspective of what you're seeking, instead of the negative aspect of what you're leaving.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"As a mid-level experienced physiotherapist, I'm seeking an organisation that can provide growth and leadership opportunities. I love mentoring new graduates and assistants and would eventually like to move into a more formal leadership role. I'm currently with a small private facility where there are not a lot of advancement opportunities. Another aspect that is important to me is a culture of collaboration. I want to be a part of a team of therapists, physicians, and other clinicians that put the patient first and works together to achieve common goals and patient outcomes."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Compatibility
2. Where do you see yourself in five years?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to understand your ambitions and desired career trajectory better. Respond with the ways that you would like to see your career flourish. If you aren't interested in eventually pursuing a management role, speak to how you want to grow and expand other skill sets or continue your education. If you have researched a specific career path or are interested in pursuing additional certifications, express that area of interest in your response.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I really enjoy taking on a coach and mentor role, so in five years, I would like to be in a position where I can lead and supervise a team at the NHS. I have the technical experience but would like to gain more formal leadership development experience through training and workshops, if available. I'd also like to find a mentor that can help prepare me for this type of role."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Compatibility
3. If you were hiring a physiotherapist to join the team, what skills would you look for in a candidate?
How to Answer
Physiotherapists must possess many technical, interpersonal, and soft skills to be effective and successful in any healthcare setting within the NHS. Review the job description and note keywords like "compassionate, able to work independently and as part of a team, strong analytical thinking skills, etc., to give you an idea of the specific skills the interviewer is looking for. In your response, provide a mix of skills you would look for and include technical skills, personality, experiences, and soft skills.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"The person would need to have a strong knowledge of the body and how it functions. We are the subject matter experts in all things related to the body and its mechanics and need to possess the appropriate knowledge to educate patients properly. The candidate would also need to enjoy working with the public, possess sensitivity, empathy and compassion, analytical thinking skills, patients, customer service skills, strong communication skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work with computers and various software programs."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Compatibility
4. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the NHS website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not common questions you could have easily found answers to beforehand.
Actively listen during the interview and ask any follow-up questions you might have based on what the interviewer has said. Consider asking follow-up questions about the interviewer, the company, the position itself, and when you can expect feedback from the interview.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"Thank you for giving me the opportunity to ask a few questions. First, I was wondering about the volume of patients a physiotherapist in this role would typically see per day or per week. Also, what would the training and onboarding program look like if offered the job? Lastly, how soon are you anticipating making a hiring decision once interviews are completed?"
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Compatibility
5. Walk me through your typical day in the workplace.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to discover more about your day-to-day roles, responsibilities, structure, and pace. If you are coming from another healthcare organisation, it's likely similar to what would be required in the position with the NSH; however, it's important to describe in detail what your activities look like. Read the job description thoroughly, and discuss the areas of responsibility you have experience in and perform daily. Keep a positive tone as you describe what your current role entails each day, and refrain from complaining about certain duties or feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"My mornings usually start with a multidisciplinary meeting where all staff gathers for an hour to discuss the current patients we're seeing and any new ones on the list. I use that meeting to prioritize my day and make necessary adjustments to my calendar and schedule. No two days look the same, but typically I do several assessments and reviews of treatment plans and progress and conduct regular therapy sessions with patients. I work with patients to provide education and advice on reaching their goals, and I incorporate several alternative therapy techniques throughout the day (massage, ultrasound, etc.)."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
6. How do you coach and support a patient or client with a negative attitude and outlook?
How to Answer
As a physiotherapist at the NHS, you may encounter a patient who is reluctant to change and displays a negative attitude or outlook on their diagnoses or even their program progress or lack thereof. The road to health and wellness is not always easy, so when a patient faces a challenge, they may feel discouraged or display a negative attitude. Share with the interviewer some techniques or strategies you use to overcome the situation and coach and support your patient positively.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"Everyone has a unique personality and disposition, and sometimes it's just the situation someone is going through that impacts their mood, so I never take it personally. If a patient is resistant to an idea, I try to find out what it is about my suggestion that they are feeling negative about, and I ask for their input and try to get them to participate in the solution process. I find that including them in the process and valuing their input and thoughts sometimes de-escalates or often even inspires more collaboration. I find that if someone is regularly negative, I don't let it impact me or how I respond, but rather I keep encouraging them and remaining positive in the hopes it's contagious!"
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
7. How would you educate a patient on fall prevention?
How to Answer
A major part of your role as a physiotherapist is educating patients. Depending on the population of patients you will be working with, it will likely be important for you to be knowledgeable about fall prevention and to be able to educate others (patients and their caregivers) on the risks and prevention techniques. Discuss your experience working with fall-risk patients and some of the ways you would educate them on this topic.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have a lot of experience conducting fall risk assessments in patients' homes and educating them on potential areas of hazard. In these assessments, I'm helping identify and remove clutter, excess furniture, and throw rugs that could be trip hazards. I'm also looking for opportunities to increase the patient's safety, like installing handrails in the shower, on staircases, and at the bedside. If a patient has stability issues or limited mobility, I also make recommendations for bedside commodes, shower benches, raised toilet seats, and electric recliners and teach them proper body mechanics for each assistive device. Lighting is also important throughout the house, so I help identify areas where nightlights or other improvements can be made to ensure safety."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
8. Pretend I'm a new patient. Briefly educate me on what proprioception is.
How to Answer
This question allows the interviewer to test your technical knowledge as well as gain some insight into your communication skills and ability to educate others. The interviewer uses a keyword here; brief. They want to see that you have the ability to be concise yet still provide the necessary information that the patient needs to understand. Be sure to end with the opportunity for your "patient" to ask questions. If you do not know anything about the topic, be honest and explain that it's one you're not familiar with but are happy to research and learn more about.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"Proprioception can be explained as body awareness. It's the body's ability to sense its movements, actions, and locations, and its purpose is to prevent injury by creating balance and spatial awareness. Proprioception can decrease with age, injury, or disease, making daily tasks harder and increasing your risk of injury and falls. Fortunately, adding proprioception training exercises to your routine can lower your risk of injury by improving your balance and stability. Do you have any questions so far?"
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
9. Can you name a few types of physiotherapy treatments you're familiar with?
How to Answer
The interviewer likely has inquired already about your years of experience and the settings you have worked in. They may want to inquire further as to what types of treatments you're familiar with. Discuss a few of these that you are familiar with, then elaborate more on if you have experience facilitating these treatments or educating patients on them. If there are any that you would like to learn more about or become certified in, feel free to share those ambitions in your response as well.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"There are many different types of physiotherapy techniques, and each brings its own unique value when treating patients. I am familiar with acupuncture, balance exercises, massage, pilates, neurokinetic therapy, stretching, taping, and proprioceptive exercises. Not only am I familiar with these techniques, but I fully understand and can educate patients on each and have experience utilizing all of them in my current role."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
10. What are some techniques you use to motivate a patient who doesn't want to participate in therapy?
How to Answer
As a physiotherapist at the NHS, you may encounter a patient who is reluctant to participate or doesn't see the value of your services. It's important that you're able to demonstrate your communication, education, and interpersonal skills in your response. Share with the interviewer some techniques or strategies you use to overcome the situation and to help educate and motivate them to take an active role in their recovery.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"It's first important to understand why the patient doesn't want to participate. If they are not feeling well or are in pain, it's important to notify the nurse or doctor and never force the session. You can always offer to reschedule an appointment. If a patient refuses for a behavioural or emotional reason, sometimes there are effective techniques to persuade them to participate, but again we never force them. Oftentimes, new patients are reluctant to participate because they don't know or trust the therapist or don't understand the benefit to them of the therapy sessions. I overcome this by introducing myself and taking a non-aggressive approach. I don't tell them what they must do but rather try to help them understand why doing the activity will benefit them, and I give them choices to empower them. For example, I may provide two options that would benefit them and allow them to choose which one they would like to start with. This often builds rapport and increases their buy-in to participate in therapy services."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
11. Tell me about your communication style and skills.
How to Answer
Effective communication is an important skill to possess to be successful as a physiotherapist with the NHS. You may work with a diverse patient group, so demonstrate your ability to be flexible in your style and connect with those with various backgrounds and ages. Think about how you share feedback, listen to others, show empathy, and communicate verbally and nonverbally to individuals and groups. Speak in detail about your communication style and give specific examples.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I feel like I'm an effective communicator and have mastered many skills n this area that allow me to be successful in this role. I am clear and concise when I give instructions or ask questions, and I actively listen when patients respond. I'm able to develop probing questions if necessary to further extract the information I need to be able to create an assessment and treatment plan. I can collaborate and work with patients to help discuss and set goals. I'm passionate about education, and I can determine my patient's learning style, then tailor my instruction and communication to them, either verbally or written, so that they clearly understand. In my communication with patients, I am professional, and I practice empathy and compassion for the individual and the situation they are going through."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
12. How do you build trust and rapport with patients or clients?
How to Answer
As a physiotherapist with the NHS, you must be able to build and maintain relationships with your patients. Patients may be nervous or reluctant to work with you, especially if they have recently received a new diagnosis that requires significant lifestyle changes or even if it's just hesitation to try something new. Consider soft skills that would be helpful in this role, like actively listening, being empathetic, encouraging, self-aware, collaborative, and compassionate. Demonstrate ways that you go about gaining the trust of your patients.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I don't go into an assessment or conversation with a know-it-all or condescending attitude. I demonstrate my genuine care and interest in patients by listening to them to understand their goals, obstacles, and concerns to gather the information I need to help them create a treatment plan. I view myself as a coach and take an encouraging, reassuring approach with my patients. Showing my patients that I value their success as much as they do, demonstrates that I"m invested in them and here to support them. I check in with them often, always follow up, and follow through on my commitments to my patients."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Competency
13. What techniques do you use to educate your patients or clients?
How to Answer
Physiotherapists at the NHS are often charged with educating patients on various topics and restoration recommendations, so you must be able to speak to the techniques and strategies you use with your patients. When responding to this question, consider various aspects like technology, visual or hands-on learning approaches, communication skills, emotional intelligence, etc. Speak to your overall experience and level of interest or passion in this area, and provide examples where possible.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I use a mix of training methods to teach my patients, and it's important first to understand a patient's learning style and preferred approach. I take advantage of technology where possible and use pre-recorded videos, live Zoom meetings, or webinar links to credible content on social media and even blogs to help supplement in-person education with my patients. I tend to look for or create engaging content that will keep patients interested and stimulated throughout the session. If I have a patient who likes to be more hands-on, I will do education with real-life models and props that better explain the topic. I'm passionate about patient education and always looking for new techniques or tools to incorporate."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
14. What made you decide to become a physiotherapist?
How to Answer
This is a lighthearted question that gives the interviewer some insight into what drew you into healthcare and becoming a physiotherapist in the first place. Share your passion for your work and what inspired you to pursue this career path. If you have a personal story, feel free to share that with the interviewer! This is a great ice-breaker question and allows you to share a bit of your personality in your answer.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"In secondary school, I played a lot of contact sports and ended up with a few injuries over the years. Through my recovery and rehab experience, I was introduced to physiotherapy. I was really moved by the impact that the therapists had on my recovery and the impact they had on the patients around me. I admired their passion for helping others, and I was encouraged by all of the results I witnessed firsthand. I did some job shadowing and fell in love with the job, and have never looked back or considered another career since."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Discovery
15. Are you actively interviewing with other companies?
How to Answer
Be honest about your status and if you're passively or actively job searching. Be open about whether you are interviewing with other companies and if so, what stage of the interview process you are in and if you have any pending offers. This gives the interviewer a better idea of how seriously you're pursuing other opportunities, how soon you're looking to make a move, and how quickly they need to make a decision. If you are interviewing elsewhere but the NHS is your preferred employer, don't be afraid to share that information.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm currently looking to make a move in the next 2-4 weeks and have been actively searching but have applied to only a handful of companies. I'm being very intentional in my current search as I look for a healthcare organisation to join that also aligns with my values. The NHS is my preferred employer of choice due to its size, stability, mission, and core values, and I'm very interested in discussing this opportunity further."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
16. What do you know about the NHS?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see if you've taken the time to research the NHS and learn more about why they do what they do, their mission, and their core values. Demonstrate that you're being intentional about applying to organisations you're interested in and not just any job that's posted. Take the time to speak about what you've read about the NHS, its leadership team, its mission, what they value, and the patients they serve. Perhaps you know someone who works there, or maybe you've been a patient of theirs in the past. If so, share that experience! Also, being able to speak to any specific awards or achievements the NHS has earned is an added bonus!
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"In England, public healthcare is administered by the National Health Service, better known as the NHS. Most services through the NHS are free to all citizens, and everyone is guaranteed access to healthcare and treatment, regardless of their socioeconomic or financial status. The NHS has six core values which include working together for patients, respect and dignity, commitment to quality of care, compassion, improving lives, and the belief that everyone counts. All of these reasons are why I wanted to apply and become a part of this team."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
17. What is one challenge that you see that physiotherapists face?
How to Answer
There are many different challenges a physiotherapist may face in their career. Patients may be reluctant to follow advice, you may be required to complete several hours of continuing education on top of your already busy work schedule, you may work with patients with terminal illnesses, or maybe you find it challenging to keep up with ever-changing technology and apps. Give the interviewer an example of a challenge you frequently face or foresee having to face in the workplace and discuss how you would overcome or navigate them.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"Interestingly, I recently read an article about the shortage of physiotherapists in the UK. In a BSA survey, patients reported dissatisfaction with appointment wait times and staffing levels. I know this is something that the NHS struggles with, as are many healthcare organisations worldwide. Being short-staffed impacts patients because we cannot spend as much time with patients because of the lack of available resources. I try to help overcome this by being someone others want to work with. I show up to work every day, so my team, managers, and patients know I'm reliable and go above and beyond to support others wherever I can. If we can create a pleasant environment, it will reduce the risk of turnover, thus helping staffing levels. I would also like to be part of a group that does community outreach and talks to those in secondary school to help promote physiotherapy and healthcare as a career in general."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
18. Are there any major trends in physiotherapy that you are following?
How to Answer
Healthcare and therapy services are constantly evolving to better meet the needs of patients. The interviewer is trying to learn more about your areas of interest or topics that you are passionate about. Speak about a trending topic that you've taken interest in or have spent time researching.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I'm very interested in pain management and the role that I can play as a physiotherapist. I've recently joined the physiotherapy pain association and have begun to network with other healthcare professionals who are passionate about this topic. I work with a lot of patients who suffer from chronic pain, and I see the impact that it has on their quality of life. I hope by joining this associate and participating in workshops and trainings; I can learn new ways to treat and provide relief for patients receiving our services."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
19. If offered a position with the NHS, you must pass an enhanced background check. Is this something you would consent to if offered the role?
How to Answer
As part of the recruitment process, the NHS may be required to conduct a comprehensive background check. The job description should tell you ahead of time if this is a requirement, but the interviewer may reiterate this requirement to candidates if applicable. If you're asked this question, keep your answer brief, as you do not need to discuss any details of your background or potential issues until you get to the offer stage of the interview process.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I did read that in the job description and would happily comply with this requirement."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
20. What do you find most rewarding about being a physiotherapist?
How to Answer
This is a personal question, so be sure to give a genuine answer about what brings you joy at work. The interviewer wants to get a sense of what you enjoy most about being a physiotherapist. Perhaps it's helping patients restore movement through alternative techniques or perhaps you enjoy working with a certain type of patient (neurological, cardiovascular, etc.). Whatever it is, share this personal detail with the interviewer.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"I find a great deal of job satisfaction when I'm able to build trusting and meaningful relationships with patients and their families. I often work with paediatric patients, so it is very rewarding to know that their families and caregivers trust my treatment plan and feel confident in my abilities to help them regain independence and mobility."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
21. Tell me about your education and certification.
How to Answer
Even though your education and experience are likely listed on your CV, the interviewer may not have had a chance to review it or would like additional information. Give a high-level overview of your education, certifications, and where you may have completed your apprenticeship, if applicable. Keep your answer brief, no more than a few minutes in total.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I attended X University in 2018 and obtained my degree through the traditional three year program. I graduated with honours and a 3.9 GPA, which I'm extremely proud of. I then registered with the Health and Care Professions Council so that I could start practising."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Discovery
22. Have you ever called off work before?
How to Answer
The NHS relies on employees to be at work so that patients can be seen as scheduled. The interviewer wants to know that you are a reliable person and they will not have to constantly find coverage for your shifts. Discuss your commitment to the company and speak to times you've had to call out of work in the past. If you don't have work experience, think about times you've missed class, internships, or other volunteer responsibilities. No matter the situation, demonstrate that you handle these types of situations with professionalism.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have called off from work twice in the last year, but only when I was very ill and with a doctor's note. If I am not feeling well, I notify my manager with as much advanced notice as possible so that my shift can be covered. I enjoy my job and need to earn a living, so rest assured that I will be at work on time and when expected."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Discovery
23. In your opinion, what is the role of a physiotherapist?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to ensure that you understand the roles and responsibilities of being a physiotherapist. This includes from a technical perspective of the role as well as the mission or passion behind the role. Give a brief statement or two on what you believe your role is as a physiotherapist on the patient care spectrum.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"We help restore movement and function after a patient experiences an injury, illness, or disability and we try to reduce the risk of reinjury in the future. We tend to take a holistic approach that considers the body as a whole, not just the affected area. Our role is to educate and advise, create tailored exercise and movements, and use manual therapy to restore movement and function of our patients."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Experience
24. What settings do you have experience working in as a physiotherapist?
How to Answer
This question allows the interviewer to explore your healthcare background and what environments you have worked in to understand if your background aligns or if you've worked in an environment where your skills would transfer well. Give an overview of the settings you've worked in (hospitals, community health centres or clinics, GP surgeries, sports teams, clubs, charities, or workplaces) and include the range of patient populations you've worked with. You can also include details about the pace of the environment or give insight into the size of the organisation or even the volume of patients you care for in that setting.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023
Answer Example
"In my current role, which I have been in for three years, I have worked at an adult care home. In this position, I conduct full patient assessments to understand their limitations and injury or illness, create goals and select an appropriate treatment programme. I work with patients who have suffered from falls, muscle weakness, range of motion and joint issues, balance problems, and mobility issues. I really enjoy working with older adults and I'm passionate about helping them regain independence through therapy services."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Experience
25. What age groups of patients do you have experience working with?
How to Answer
If employed with the NHS, you may be asked to work with a diverse age range of patients, from paediatrics and their families to older adults. Give the interviewer some insight into what age groups you've worked with in the past and in what setting (hospital, clinic, community, etc.). Be sure you've read the job description thoroughly and searched for keywords into what age groups you may be working with in this role, so you can speak directly to that. Avoid speaking negatively about certain age groups and demonstrate your flexibility and willingness to work with various patient populations.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"Over the years, I have worked with all age groups, from paediatrics to the elderly. I enjoy working with patients of all ages, and I've found different techniques and strategies that seem to work better than others for each age group. For example, my younger patients tend to learn best by consuming content online and through apps, but my older patients like one-on-one training, literature to read, or hands-on educational methods. I'm comfortable with and am open to working with all patients in my next role."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Experience
26. Do you have any experience working with patients with sports injuries?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to learn more about your experience working with patients who are overcoming sports injuries. In your response, discuss your experience and include the ages of patients you have worked with, along with some examples of injuries you have treated. If you do not have experience, be honest but demonstrate your willingness to learn and work with these types of cases.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have worked with a high volume of patients, both young and old, who have suffered from sports-related injuries. I aim to ensure patients make the best recovery possible, so they can safely return to activities they enjoy. In my role, I have worked with patients with muscle tears (bicep, pectoral, tricep, rotator cuff), bone fractures, whiplash, hyperextension injuries, dislocations, strains, and more. I enjoy helping athletes recover so they can return to sports quickly, and I feel confident in my abilities to assess patients and create effective treatment plans."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Experience
27. Have you ever worked with children with mental or physical disabilities?
How to Answer
Depending on the role you're applying for at the NHS, you may be required to work with children with mental or physical disabilities. Share your experience with the interviewer and include the setting, age range of children you've worked with, and some of the mental or physical disabilities you're familiar with. If you have any specific examples or would like to share techniques you find useful, feel free to share those with the interviewer in your response.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I have worked with children aged 10-15 who have mental and physical disabilities. The disabilities range from autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, anxiety disorders, and more. Working with children has unique challenges that sometimes require us to be more agile, patient, flexible, and creative than when working with adult patients. I have found that it's important to build trusting relationships with patients as well as their families and caregivers, as having a strong foundation like this helps when carrying out the education piece and treatment plan. Each child is unique and often requires a unique and individualized approach to the communication, teaching, and engagement of the patient throughout the treatment plan."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Experience
28. What are some patient conditions you're familiar with treating?
How to Answer
While you've likely already discussed your experience in some form at this point, you still may get a question that dives a little deeper into the conditions, injuries, or illnesses that you have experience treating. Give the interviewer additional insight into the types of settings you have worked in and some of the conditions you have seen during your time there.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"In my current role, I work with neurological patients who suffer from multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, and strokes. I've also worked with patients who have neuromusculoskeletal issues like back pain, sports injuries, arthritis, etc. I feel very confident in my abilities to work with these types of patients, both young and old."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Situational
29. Tell me about a difficult patient that you've worked with.
How to Answer
Working in healthcare and within an organization as large as the NHS, you will interact with a high volume of patients. Possessing the skills to handle difficult situations and people in the workplace is essential. Think about a time you had a difficult patient and what made it difficult. Describe the situation and how you handled it. Avoid speaking negatively about patients when answering.
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 16th, 2023
Answer Example
"I once worked with a very complex patient who suffered from chronic pain and depression. He was an elderly gentleman who was determined to overcome his physical limitations to continue to live independently. I worked very closely with him and naturally developed a bond with him over the months that I saw him. It was difficult to see him reach emotional and mental breaking points when his recovery wasn't progressing as he had hoped. Not all patients and conditions are straightforward, and this gentleman had many complex diagnoses that were impacting his quality of life. It was difficult for me emotionally to see him struggle, but I always offered to show my support by listening, being empathetic, and providing education and guidance where I could, and I continued to encourage and motivate him as long as he was with our team. As healthcare professionals, we always want the best outcomes for patients, and when that doesn't happen, it can be difficult to deal with."
Written by Jaymie Payne on April 15th, 2023