What is your approach to handling a difficult patient?

"I give difficult patients the same care I give the cooperative ones because everyone deserves the best and most caring treatment I can provide. During my preliminary residency year and medical school training, I worked with some very sick patients, and everyone processes those emotions differently. If they were especially difficult, I would encourage them to take on a more positive attitude by keeping the mood as light as possible and giving them positive things to focus on. Providing a listening ear is often the best thing to put a patient at ease."

Try to put yourself in the shoes of a patient receiving radiation therapy under your care. They may have cancer diagnoses or other potentially life-threatening diseases. They are often fearful and deal with many emotions, which can come across as hostile to their care teams. Explain how you will always be a great listener and communicator, even with the most challenging patients you encounter. Stress that you would always remain respectful and caring in this situation.