35 PICU Nurse Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our PICU Nurse 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.
Behavioral
1. How do you reflect after dealing with a difficult and challenging patient situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One fact that you need to come to terms with prior to applying for a position as a PICU nurse is that you will face some very difficult and challenging patient situations. As a nursing professional, reflecting, learning, and growing from these challenging situations is vital to future patient care success. Your interviewer poses this question to ensure that you will take the time to reflect and learn after you have handled a difficult situation in their Pediatric ICU.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
During your future career as a PICU nurse, you will no doubt be put in situations where young patients receive life-threatening diagnoses, go into cardiac arrest, or even die. It's human nature to rationalize or justify and not face the difficult feelings or emotions of a situation gone bad, but this reflection is extremely important so that you know you are doing all that you can do to help in the situation. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to reflect on a situation and learn from it moving forward. If you have an example of a time you have done this during your career, don't hesitate to talk openly and honestly about the situation and what you learned.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I really like to go back and review with myself and the team what happened and ways to be better in any situation that doesn't go as planned. I think it's important to distance myself a little bit from the emotions and try to review the situation logically. I think that when emotions run high, intelligence can run low, and we need to talk about situations and responses without blame. Blame isn't helpful and impedes learning. As a PICU nurse on your unit, I know that I will be facing some of the most difficult situations that any nurse can handle and I'm ready for that challenge. I want you to be assured that I would take any difficult situation and learn from it moving forward."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Have you ever had an issue or disagreement with a physician or colleague's decision? How did you handle it?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the fast-paced world that a PICU nurse works in, you won't always agree with the decisions that are made by your co-workers or the physicians that you work with. In asking a question like this, your interviewer asks about a time when you had a disagreement on the job to get the sense that you would be professional, respectful, and diplomatic in coming up with solutions as a member of their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
When a disagreement eventually happens as a PICU nurse, you first have to make a decision whether it is something to take issue with or leave alone. In the example that you discuss, show your interviewer that you trusted your final decision and the outcome of the situation was acceptable. Try to highlight your ability to communicate effectively while being respectful in making your professional opinion heard.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my time working at a skilled nursing facility, we were short-staffed one evening during medication passing. Our standard operating procedure was to pass medications to patients in teams of two to ensure that proper medications were being given to each resident. My co-worker told me to do two of the wings alone to save time and I immediately told her that I was uncomfortable going against the policy as it wasn't safe for the patients. Another co-worker and I teamed up to complete the pass in the entire facility in a timely fashion with no incidents."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Describe your typical relationship with the physicians you work with. What would your ideal physician relationships look like for you in our PICU?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a PICU nurse, you will have the opportunity to work closely with Pediatric Critical Care specialists and other pediatric subspecialists like cardiologists, neurologists and oncologists. This question will enable you to showcase your relationship with the physicians that you have worked with and what your ideal communication style is with the physicians you will work with in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
As a nurse, building trust with physicians is important, so some examples of how you've built that trust can be beneficial. To really seal this answer for your interviewer, describe what an ideal relationship with a physician would look like if you were hired at their organization if you were fortunate enough to be offered this position as a PICU nurse.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my career, I've taken great pride in being able to communicate and relate to the physicians that I have worked with. Together, we ultimately work as a team to provide the best care that we can for each patient and our working relationship is key to accomplishing this goal. In my current role, I work closely with hospitalists and other subspecialists. I build trust with each by walking the walk and talking the talk. If I commit to a task, I see it through and communicate the results back to a physician. I also never hesitate to give my professional opinion to them. As a part of your PICU, my ideal relationship with the physicians I would be working closely with would involve open communication, friendliness, and mutual respect for the care we each provide to patients here at your organization."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Behavioral
4. As you may be aware, staff in the pediatric critical care setting have been historically known to experience "burn out" on the job. Why do you feel you will be able to handle the mental, physical, and emotional stress this job can bring?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Because of the great responsibility that comes with caring for pediatric patients in the intensive care setting, many nurses do report experiencing the need to take a break from work due to high amounts of stress and eventual burnout. At some point during your time with them, your interviewer wants to know that you are capable of handling the high amount of stress that will come with this role as a PICU nurse and that you are cognizant of this danger of the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Your interviewer is fully aware that the increased stress levels of working as a PICU nurse can cause exhaustion, fatigue, increased levels of absenteeism, and low staff morale as they've likely seen this throughout their time as a PICU leader. As you answer this question, you'll first want to acknowledge that you are aware that you will be stepping into a highly stressful environment. As you do this, you can then talk about the ways that you will join this team that will help prevent you from becoming stressed and burnt out. In the end, stress to your interviewer that you won't let the common stressors in the PICU cause you to perform poorly on the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Coming into this interview, I fully understand that the PICU setting is a whole new world, and providing care for pediatric patients in intensive care can be highly stressful. Throughout my career, I've proven my ability to work successfully in high-stress environments like the emergency setting. For me, this ability really starts outside of work with a healthy diet, an exercise routine, and getting plenty of sleep on a daily basis. This enables me to be fully rested and physically ready to perform for 12 hours. When additional stress hits while on shift, I have a mental toughness that allows me to work through things at the moment and then shift gears when needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
5. What drew you to apply to our organization as a PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While you will discuss your passion for pediatric intensive care nursing throughout your interview, your interviewer also needs to hear that you are attracted to their organization and its values. This will help prove that you will be dedicated to your work as a PICU nurse and that you'll be able to carry out the mission and values of the organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
This question is allowing you to be direct in your approach in talking about what draws you to this organization. Prior to your interview, be sure to research the mission, values, and goals of the organization and make sure that you put some serious thought into what you feel hits close to home for you in working for them. As you answer, talk about the values of the organization that you hold near and dear to your heart to prove your long-term dedication when hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"As I began to search for my dream job in a pediatric intensive care unit here in the region, it was important for me to find an organization that meets my personal values. As I researched and talked to some of your staff about your organization, I was delighted to hear about your patient-centered care, your efforts to give back to the communities you serve, and the diversity and inclusion efforts you are making in the workplace. These are all values that I take pride in and would be proud to represent on a daily basis."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
6. How much supervision do you feel you would need in your initial months on the job as a PICU nurse at our institution?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Prior to your interview to join a reputable pediatric intensive care unit as a registered nurse, it's important to know that a typical orientation period for new staff is around 12 weeks. This is due to the high level of acute specialized care that is required with pediatric patients. In asking a question like this, your interviewers want to hear your thoughts on the orientation process and when you would ideally feel comfortable working solo on the patient floor after you are hired.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
This is a tricky question, so think it through ahead of your interview and be prepared to give an answer that illustrates that you are "coachable" without being too dependent or needy. You also want to project that you are confident and competent without being arrogant or trouble for the PICU leadership team. Your interviewer wants the best of both worlds in looking for a new PICU nurse to join their team, so be prepared to describe your competency, initiative, and willingness to both ask for and receive supervision and direction.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Given my experience working in inpatient care for my entire nursing career--with the last five being in a critical care setting--I would expect your standard orientation period to include getting comfortable with caring for pediatric patients and learning to utilize equipment like the ventilators, temperature probes, and pulse oximeters customized for young patients. I am confident that I bring a level of competency to the position with my past experience, but this work will be new to me. If I am fortunate enough to join your unit, I would take advantage of shadowing opportunities with staff to learn quickly and be up and running hopefully after just two or three months of training."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
7. What makes you the ideal candidate to become our next PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is often one of the final questions during your interview and your chance to sell yourself to the interviewer on why you are the best candidate to join their pediatric intensive care unit as a registered nurse. They've been asking a lot of great questions to get to know your skills, your personality, and how you will fit with their neonatal care team and they're now allowing you the chance to give your best sales pitch to them.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
This is a great question to have a prepared (but not rehearsed) answer for. Talk in a way that highlights your skills and how they will benefit the PICU patients you will be working with. You can also discuss your personal traits that you feel put you above the competition for the position.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Throughout my career as a registered nurse, I have demonstrated that patient care is a top priority in any job that I have held. It has always been my dream to work in a pediatric ICU unit and I know that everything that I have worked for in my career has brought me here. My compassion and drive to succeed in this position make me the top person for this job, and you'll find that I will quickly be a top-contributing member of your nursing team."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
8. How do you feel you've handled significant changes in your work as a nurse throughout your career?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Innovation in pediatric intensive care continues to improve outcomes for patients on an almost day-to-day basis. Your interviewers need to be assured that you would join their team as a PICU nurse who can handle changes in patient care and do so with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Coming into this PICU nurse interview, you need to be able to demonstrate that you can navigate change with ease in the workplace. This question is your chance to talk in detail about a specific change you have dealt with in the workplace that had a positive outcome. In your answer, be sure to reiterate your ability to be flexible and open to change if you were to join this organization as a PICU nurse. To take your answer to the next level, discuss why innovation is vital to providing the best care possible to pediatric intensive care patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Adapting to change is the one necessary constant in healthcare and I feel that I've done this exceptionally throughout my career. I've experienced an organizational merger early in my career, adapting to new equipment and upgraded EMR's and shifted duties within departments. For me, success in handling any changes with ease comes down to a mindset and a passion for patient care. Where a lot of others see change as disruptive and have a negative mindset, I look at change as a reason for improving. In most of the cases throughout my career, a new EMR or new piece of medical equipment means better patient care in the end and I dive in, learn and move forward in working with whatever is new."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
9. What is your overall availability to work varying shifts as a new nurse in our PICU unit?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Heading into your interview for this PICU nurse role, you should have a pretty good idea of the scheduling expectations of the position through the job posting that you read or the advertisement you saw. Similar to other critical care and inpatient settings, shift nurses will staff the unit every hour of every day, and your interviewer will be looking to hear that you have the availability required for the position. They also want to know if their top candidate has any time commitments that they should work with.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
In truthfulness to yourself and the potential future employer, you should be as honest as possible regarding what your availability is when it comes to nights, weekends, and holidays. While reiterating that you are open and flexible, make sure that your interviewer knows of any personal commitments that you have because it is important that these things are discussed during the interview process. Based on your research into the hours requirements for the position, make sure to reiterate that you can handle potential 12-hour shifts and even required overtime. If needed, you can always ask clarification questions to your interviewer.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am willing and able to work any shift on any day as long as the schedule for particular shifts is out at least two weeks ahead of time. I've been working nights, weekends, and rotating holidays in my current role for the past six years. With my husband also having a full-time job, I need to be able to plan ahead for childcare during the weekday hours should the need arise. We are very fortunate to have a great support system with family and friends if needed."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
10. How have you gone about prioritizing your work in your current role when multiple patients and/or procedures demand your attention at once?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in any patient unit or clinic can be overwhelming at times for registered nurses due to high patient volumes. During these times, nurses are often the glue that holds everything together in the department to ensure that medical support runs smoothly. In the pediatric intensive care setting, there will be times when you are managing a full unit of patients that all require very acute care. Your interviewer is asking this question to ultimately determine how you will manage situations like this as a PICU nurse at their institution.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
To successfully answer this question, be able to talk about a particular situation where you had to prioritize multiple patients at once and describe how you handled the situation with a great outcome. Some things you ideally want to highlight that lead to success as a busy PICU nurse are your abilities to prioritize, stay organized, and communicate with the entire care team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a current nurse in the emergency setting, there are times when the action is crazy with patients coming in. During these times, I always remember that the needs of the patients come first, so my triage skills come into use to prioritize which patients are the highest priority and which ones can wait. During these particular times, communication is extremely important for patients. If they are going to have a time period to wait, I communicate that to them and check in with them when I can. Also during these busy times, it is equally important for our team of nurses and physicians to stay in communication. With good communication established, I stay calm and handle patients with quality care, one at a time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
11. What has driven you throughout your career to be the best nurse you can be? How will this help our PICU patients if we were to hire you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter how many years of experience you have as a registered nurse, you must stay motivated in order to provide top-quality care to pediatric patients in the intensive care setting. In the PICU, days can be exhausting and emotionally draining and it is important for nurses to be able to stay motivated and on their toes at all times. Your interviewer is posing this question to determine what motivates and drives you internally and to determine if their environment would be a good fit for you.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
To successfully answer this question, you should describe what motivates you to be the best that you can be each day on the job. If possible, really try to hammer home why working with the unique patient base in the PICU really appeals to you and the type of nurse that you are to seal your answer for your interviewer. As you answer, don't hesitate to take a historical approach and discuss your motivations to go into the nursing field and how your motivations may have adapted over time.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"When I began nursing school, I knew that I was born to help people when they are at their most vulnerable. In any environment, whether it be outpatient, inpatient, or skilled nursing, making a positive difference for each of my patients is what has always driven me to become a better nurse--it makes all the hard and emotional days worth it. Over the last two years working in an outpatient pediatric clinic, I've made the decision to refocus the remainder of my career in the PICU setting. Working with critically ill and injured pediatric patients would be a passion for me and I would never have a moment where I wasn't highly motivated to make a difference for them and their families."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
12. What is your preferred role in working as part of a larger team as a registered nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
During your interview for this role as a PICU nurse, your interviewer will surely be looking to hear that you can be the ultimate team player if you were to be hired on their team. You know that RNs don't work alone and that the success of the greater good relies on a true team effort. In the PICU setting, you will be working closely with a team of pediatric intensivists, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, nutritionists, and nurse colleagues and your interviewer needs to be assured that you can both take direction and take the lead when needed.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
While being open and honest about the type of role that you are most comfortable playing as part of a larger team, discuss how flexibility and cohesiveness are important in a true team effort. Also, don't hesitate to reiterate that you can function well in both a team setting and working alone. If you can, give an example of a time you took the lead on your team to prove your ability to do this as a PICU nurse.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm a firm believer that working as a team provides the best possible outcome for patients. Every staff member has their own unique experiences and knowledge and looking at problems from many points of view is the best. When working on a large team, I am comfortable stepping in and giving my thoughts on things, and I also never hesitate to reach out to others for their advice. I have both the ability to lead others and the ability to take direction--the ability to do both of these with ease has helped me be a successful RN throughout my entire career. My colleagues have always commended me for my leadership skills and my ability to be a team player."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
13. Talk about the proudest moment you have experienced as part of a larger healthcare team. What role did you play in that effort?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the PICU setting, accomplishments can come in both the smallest and grandest of forms. A simple blood transfusion that is less than two teaspoons can make a life-changing difference for a toddler in your care, and a patient that's been hospitalized for months can finally say that they are able to walk again. By asking this question, your interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you would join their PICU nursing team with a sense of pride in the work done by both you and the team you are a part of.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your interview, think of a situation when you felt a sense of pride and accomplishment in a team effort during your time as a registered nurse. Try to paint a clear picture for your interviewer of what the situation was, who was involved in making it a great team effort, and what the ultimate outcome was. If you can relate your answer to a direct patient care situation, that is even better. In the end, make sure that your interviewer walks away knowing that you would take pride in what you do on the job as a PICU nurse on their team.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Last year, I was working a night shift and we had a patient go into cardiac arrest with myself, another nurse, and the hospitalist on duty. As the first to respond to the room, I immediately called for help, checked for any signs of breath, and immediately began administering CPR. Within a minute, the other nurse and physician were in the room and they prepped and delivered the AED to the patient while I continued CPR. After the second shock and a few chest compressions, the patient was revived and had a steady heartbeat. While the physician immediately prepared the patient for pre-surgery, my nurse colleague hugged me tightly and thanked me for taking action. Soon thereafter, the physician gathered us both and we took a moment to reflect on what we did right and celebrated together."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
14. What appeals to you in working as a PICU nurse and do you see this as a long-term career fit for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pediatric intensive care nurses are a rare breed of RNs looking to take on both the difficult worlds of ICU care and pediatric care. Your interviewer knows that an entry-level job in a PICU is often a difficult ask, so you have likely built up your experience over the years for this dream job. They want to ensure that any candidate that they hire has the passion and drive to succeed in this role for the long term and this question gives them insight into your passion for PICU nursing.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
First and foremost, you want to make your passion for PICU nursing come to life for your interviewers with your answer. To do this, discuss why working with critically ill/injured pediatric patients is your calling. Then, be sure to talk about how your career path to this point has fully prepared you for success in this role from the start and for the rest of your career.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Becoming a PICU nurse has been a career goal for me since I entered the workforce 12 years ago and our first son spent over two months in a large PICU on the west coast. I was so inspired as a young med/surg nurse at the time that I've focused my career path to reach this moment and join a great institution like yours. I'm confident that my time working in an outpatient pediatric setting and an inpatient hospital unit have really prepared me to come to your PICU and help make life-changing differences for your patients and their families."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
15. What do you feel is the biggest challenge you would face in joining our team as a PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every new nursing job has challenges, no matter where your prior experience and education come from. With your interviewer fully aware that coming to their team as a PICU nurse will provide challenges for any new hire, they're asking this question to allow you to talk about what you feel would be your biggest challenge from the start in this role and to hear what your plan would be for facing this challenge.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your PICU nurse interview, be sure to carefully read the job description and really reflect on what you foresee as a potential challenge from the day you would start on the unit. Answer openly and honestly, but be sure to talk about what you would see for a plan of attack in handling that challenge. Make sure your interviewer walks away knowing that you would still thrive, despite the initial challenge.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"It's difficult to just be a nurse and not get attached and take things to heart--I'm still human. I know that this will be extremely difficult working with children, from infancy to adolescence, in the pediatric intensive care setting. While I've worked with pediatric patients in the inpatient hospital setting, I've never cared for them in an ICU setting. If things ever felt overwhelming to me in this role, I would take a quick breather, step aside, and get my feelings together. I would always try to remind myself that no matter what happens in a day, I am blessed to be able to be with people during some of the toughest times of their lives, knowing I can make a difference with one child and family at a time."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
16. What would you say is the greatest strength you would bring to our team as a PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses is critical as a pediatric nurse in the intensive care setting. If a question like this gets asked during your interview, consider yourself lucky as your interviewer is allowing you the opportunity to give your sales pitch for why you are the best candidate to join their team as their next PICU Nurse.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
When you answer a question like this, you ideally want to try to compare your strengths to the required skills listed in the job overview when answering this question. If you feel that your strength is a little too common or generic, don't hesitate to think about a very unique strength that you can bring to this PICU team as long as it would greatly help you and your team in the role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very confident that the clinical strengths I have developed throughout my care in both the inpatient hospital units and outpatient pediatric clinic make me a great fit for this role as a registered nurse in your pediatric critical care unit. But I would have to say that my greatest strengths for this role are my patience and my composure. I pride myself on not getting rattled when a clinical situation turns bad, but rather focus hard on my tasks at hand and get the job done."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
17. What personality traits do you have that you feel would make you a great PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Warm personalities and a strong sense of character are extremely important for PICU nursing staff and for the families of the patients they care for to see. Your interviewer is looking for cues as to what character traits you may bring to the table as part of their PICU nursing team, and this question allows you to personally reflect on your positive personality traits.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your PICU nurse interview, take some time to reflect on what you feel are your top personality traits that will lead to success in this role. Try to really think about the patients and families that you will be interacting with on a daily basis. PICU nurses really need to have perfected their soft skills like empathy and emotional stability, so discussing traits that outline your soft skills will prove to be beneficial when you answer this question.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I always want the patients and families that I work closely with to notice my ability to be personable, emotionally stable, and empathetic to their needs. I know that I'll be working with parents that are fearful and confused and I need to help be their 'rock' on the care team at all times--I'm ready to take on that challenge with any family in your PICU."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Discovery
18. Talk about your experience working among a diverse team. How did you thrive in that environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of the minds of all healthcare institutions, both large and small. If asked this question during your interview, you will likely be joining a very culturally diverse team and caring for a diverse patient base. Your interviewer wants to know that you are open to meeting and learning about new people and becoming an integral part of this team as a PICU nurse. They'll also be looking to hear about any diverse environments you have worked and thrived in during your career up to this point.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
In an industry as large as healthcare, diversity among peers is inevitable. To be successful, it is crucial to learn how to work with a diverse group of people. Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, doing so is crucial to provide effective care. Be positive with your response as you discuss culturally diverse environments you have been a part of. If you have been a part of any formal DE&I training or helped lead any efforts in this area, now is a great time to talk about those experiences.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel so fortunate to have worked in a very diverse environment throughout my career with my current organization. I currently work on a team of nurses who come from all over the country and world and I love being able to learn new things from my colleagues. We all bring a unique perspective and viewpoint to new challenges and this makes us better in the end. As I researched a move to become a pediatric ICU nurse, your organization jumped out to me because of the focused efforts you are taking in ensuring that your workforce is culturally diverse and inclusive."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Education
19. What patient education skills would you bring to our team as a registered nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Nurses in any setting have to be confident and skilled in their ability to provide patient education regarding their diagnosis and treatment. The PICU setting provides many unique challenges that the best nurses master and embrace, specifically in educating both patients and immediate family members. Your interviewer is asking this question to assess your overall ability and skill level in providing education to the families of the patients that you will be caring for in their pediatric ICU.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Providing education and/or discharge instructions in the PICU cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach, as patients' families have varying capacities for comprehending information. To effectively answer this question, you should specifically explain how you have delivered instructions to patients. A stronger answer to this question would include a specific example of how you adjusted the delivery of educational information or discharge instructions to ensure the family of the patient understood what was being communicated.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a patient flow nurse, giving patients their discharge instructions is a big part of my job. Each time I assist with a patient's discharge at the hospital, I review the written discharge instructions with both the patient and any family members or other advocates they have present. In these situations, there have been times that the patients are unable to understand and comprehend their aftercare instructions. I check their understanding by having them explain back to me the instructions I just gave them. I know that in the PICU setting, the education comes down to successfully educating families of patients on the medical statuses of their children when on the unit and when patients are being discharged. I know that this piece of the job can be very emotional, and I would come to your team with the emotional stability to handle this aspect of the job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Education
20. What professional nursing organizations do you belong to, and are there any you would look to join as a PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Prioritizing professional development and learning opportunities as a registered nurse is a quality that any nurse manager will look for in a candidate to join their team. This is particularly true for working in the pediatric ICU, where staying up-to-date and educated on the latest and greatest procedures is vital to providing the best care possible. With this question, your interviewers will be looking to hear about the organizations you're a part of currently and that you've done your homework on the organizations that represent the pediatric nursing field.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
To start, simply talk about the organizations that you do belong to and discuss any benefits that you've received from your membership over the years. This can and should include any educational or training opportunities you have received. Then, make sure to do your homework on organizations like the Pediatric Critical Care Medicine organization and the Society of Pediatric Nurses, and be sure to let your interviewers know that you are ready and willing to take advantage of being a member of those organizations.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I graduated and entered the nursing workforce eight years ago, I have been a member of the ANA and I joined the AACN when I joined my current critical care unit three years ago. I've loved taking advantage of CME credits available through both organizations and last year I attended the AACN national conference and was able to network with many nurses throughout the country. I have a college classmate that is a PICU nurse that I talk with regularly and she highly recommended looking into the PedsCCM site if I were to be offered and accept this position, and I would look forward to doing so. Are there any other organizations or societies that you would recommend?"
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Operational
21. Are you able to handle the physical requirements of working in our pediatric ICU?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Being a successful PICU nurse has a unique blend of competing physical requirements. On one end of the spectrum, this includes being on your feet for typical 12-hour shifts with little time to sit because of the need to do rounds on patients and lifting requirements to be able to lift/transfer patients. At the opposite end comes the need to have gentle hands for the pediatric patients that you will be working with on a daily basis. Your interviewers need to know that you will be able to handle all of the physical demands of the job if they are going to seriously consider you for the role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Speak honestly and to the point about your ability to handle the long hours on your feet and the quick action of the PICU environment. If you have experience working in a similar environment, be sure to reiterate that to your interviewer. Then, talk about your ability to work carefully with pediatric patients and how you will prioritize being a gentle and caring nurse if hired for this role. It can also be beneficial to discuss your self-care methods; being a PICU nurse is certainly helped by being in great physical shape.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my first four years as a registered nurse, I spent many long hours on my feet and working shifts at non-traditional times. To be able to do this with ease, I have worked hard to be in the best physical shape that I can be by jogging on a regular basis, eating healthily, and getting an ample amount of sleep each and every night. I find that by taking care of myself both mentally and physically, I come to work prepared for any physical demands that are thrown my way, and this certainly applies to this position as a PICU nurse. As a father myself to two wonderful children, I am very comfortable handling and working with pediatric patients in this role."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Operational
22. How do you approach the documentation of patient records? Do you have specific strategies that you use?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Documentation of clinical encounters in patient records is extremely important as a PICU nurse. If clinical encounters, medications, procedures, vital signs, and other information are not documented properly, poor, or even fatal, patient outcomes could occur. Your interviewer is asking this question to determine how seriously you take accurate and timely documentation and to see if you use any methods to improve efficiencies for documentation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
To effectively answer this question, be prepared to talk about how you approach documentation from beginning to end in your current role and give examples of any strategies that you use to improve efficiency. If possible prior to your interview, do some research on common errors that occur in PICU patient documentation so you can assure your interviewer that you are aware of the importance of accurate documentation and assure them that you will take the necessary time, every time, to document patient notes.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I approach patient documentation in the EHR very seriously. As an RN, my work needs to be documented so my colleagues remain updated at shift time and providers are updated on the care provided for patients. Even on the busiest of days in my current unit, I make the time to finish charting right away in the patient's room. I fully realize that there are extra precautions that need to take place in the PICU regarding patient documentation and that the misidentification of patients is a very real risk. I want you to know that if I were fortunate enough to be offered this role, I would prioritize mastering your EHR in my initial days on the job."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Scenario
23. You just finished preparing IV medications for a patient, and you thoroughly washed your hands before doing so. As you enter the patient's room with the medication, describe the first thing you do to prevent patient infection.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Due to their lack of immunity and the nature of their conditions, pediatric ICU patients are at significant risk of picking up an infection as a consequence of the care they are receiving. Although infection prevention measures in the healthcare industry have greatly improved over the years, the risk still exists and healthcare professionals must be vigilant in order to prevent healthcare-acquired infections. Your interview asks a simple question like this to ensure that you would always take the easy safety procedures seriously in your work as a PICU nurse with their organization.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Although it may seem obvious, the simple task of handwashing is the first step in infection prevention. To effectively answer this question, you should explain that the first step you would take to prevent infection would be to wash your hands thoroughly again. A more successful answer to this question would include an example of how you have helped train colleagues on handwashing in such situations and/or assisted in the development and implementation of handwashing policies for your nursing unit. You should also remind your interviewer that you would remain compliant with any gowning requirements with certain patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"The first thing I would do to prevent the patient from getting an infection is to wash my hands. There are other actions I would need to take in preventing infection, but handwashing is primary. I have always been an advocate of handwashing, even when many of my colleagues were not. When I found out that my nursing and care partner colleagues on my unit were not following handwashing protocols last year, I worked with my supervisor to develop training on the importance of proper handwashing, handwashing technique, and infection prevention. After this training, handwashing compliance in my unit improved greatly, and the infection control nurse attributed it to a reduction in secondary infections. In your PICU, every infection prevention measure is vital in ensuring the health and safety of your patients and I would never let my guard down during my shift."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Scenario
24. Talk about a time when you had to handle an irate patient or their family member on the job as an RN. How did you handle that situation and what were the results?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the pediatric intensive care unit, nurses often deal with the family members of patients during some of the most stressful times of their lives. These stressful times can lead to emotional outbursts, like rage or sadness, directed at staff on the unit. Your interviewer needs to be assured that you would join their team as a PICU nurse who will be able to handle the range of emotions that the families you work with will show.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your interview, think of a situation you have been in where you can clearly demonstrate your ability to diffuse a high-conflict situation. In dealing with someone who was angry, it is important to demonstrate your listening skills, problem-solving skills, and your ability to remain calm and collected so as not to escalate the situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my current role in a critical care setting, I communicate regularly with the close families of patients who are typically stressed and worried about their loved ones. A few months ago, I had the daughter of a patient become very upset with the staff because she didn't have answers for what caused her father to go into cardiac arrest. As the nurse in charge of her father that day, I took it upon myself to talk with her in one of our private family rooms. First, I heard her out and let her vent. Just being able to let loose really eased her and I was able to let her know that we didn't have all of the answers right now. I assured her that a team of the best professionals was conducting diagnostic tests and lab work and that she would be the first to know once more information was known."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Scenario
25. You are nearing the end of your 12-hour shift in our PICU and you are exhausted from caring for eight, high-acuity patients. As your colleague arrives to relieve you, tell me how you proceed.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Even after a grueling 12-hour shift in the pediatric ICU, a successful handoff to your colleagues is vital to the proper care of your patients. Your interviewer is asking this question to determine if you understand the importance of completing thorough shift handovers to your colleagues.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
First and foremost, you want to reiterate to your interviewer that you will prioritize a proper shift handoff with all patient information because your PICU patients' health and safety depend on it. If you have an example of a time you successfully handed off at a shift's end to your colleagues when circumstances were difficult, talk about how you walked through that handoff. Now can also be a great time to confirm what process the unit you are interviewing with uses at shift change time.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"In this situation, even though I am exhausted, I would first be sure to complete handover templates for all my patients, if I haven't already. This is especially important because you said the eight patients are high acuity, which means there is a lot the next nurse needs to know about them. I could never leave my patients without completing handovers because not only could I not leave my coworker in a bad situation, but I also don't want to put my peds patients at risk. Last week, I was in a similar situation, where I had been so busy that I didn't have time to complete handovers until my coworker arrived to relieve me. So, I stayed late and completed the templates for all my patients despite the fact that I was tired and ready to go home."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Scenario
26. If you were talking with a patient's parents during rounds and they told you they didn't understand the treatment plan that the physician told them, how would you respond in that situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Unfortunately, these types of situations are very common in the pediatric critical care setting for PICU nurses, as the families of patients are often confused or misinformed about their child's health. The interviewer is asking this question to determine if you would take initiative to help the family. They'll ideally be looking to hear that you would explain the medical situation to the family in layman's terms and follow up with the physician if any more information should be provided.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
In this situation as a PICU nurse, you should describe how you would take time to help the family understand what is going on with their child's health and condition. A more successful answer to this question would include a specific example from your career where you helped clarify a diagnosis, procedure, or other medical-related situation when a patient or their family was confused. Make sure to reiterate that you would handle any follow-up necessary in a quick manner to ensure that the family's questions are answered.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"This type of situation has to be so frightening for a PICU patient's family, and unfortunately, I can foresee that it happens often. I would take time to explain the patient's medical condition to them at a level they could understand and I would not leave until I was sure they understood. I have dealt with this many times in my nursing career, but one time in particular sticks out to me. I was caring for a patient who had been admitted after a car accident, and after she had a CT scan on her head, a mass was found on her pituitary gland. The doctors did not think the mass was cancerous, and the patient was told it was likely benign; but unfortunately, she didn't know the meaning of benign. Later, when I went to check on the patient, she was devastated and thought she had brain cancer. Luckily, I was able to help explain the situation to her, just like I would do in the situation with the patient's family you described to me."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Scenario
27. As a PICU nurse with our organization, how would you handle a situation where a colleague calls you to ask you to document some patient notes that they had forgotten during their shift?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While it may sound like the right thing to do because you don't want anything to happen that could potentially jeopardize the patient, you should never do this because it is forging the medical record. It's very unethical and risks your nursing license. While there are many scenarios that your interviewer can propose to get at your desire to be ethical when it comes to patient records, this question gives your the opportunity to prove that you would do the right thing in this situation.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
In this real-life "what if" scenario, the correct thing to do is to write down the information that should be formally documented in the EHR and attach a sticky note to the unit in the patient's room so that there is a visual reminder for all staff on duty. This information should be reported to the shift nurse manager for additional guidance on how to manage the situation. Under no circumstances should you sign off on any patient notes that you did not directly handle.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"First, I would let my colleague know that I was not comfortable documenting any notes in the patient's electronic record. I would certainly thank them for calling and letting me know and I would assure them that I would notify the supervisor on duty right away. My first action after the call would be to make a quick, written note on the PC in the patient's room to ensure another nurse won't administer any further medication or treatments in the meantime. I would then take the issue to the supervisor for the next steps to be determined."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
28. How have you typically responded to an emergency situations during your career as a registered nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Emergency conditions ranging from respiratory distress to a quick onset of sepsis in patients that can occur in pediatric critical care units mean that PICU nurses often need to react swiftly to them on the job. Your interview asks this question to hear about emergency procedures you have been trained in and have handled throughout your career to get a better sense of how you will work in emergency settings as a part of their unit.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
If possible, the best answer to this question will highlight how you've had to act quickly during your nursing career in emergency situations. To assure success in this role as a PICU nurse, you'll want to highlight your ability to respond quickly and make yourself available to assist provider staff in any way you can. Talking about how you were resourceful, quick thinking, and not hesitant in a high-pressure situation will also prove your ability to handle any situation you may face as their next PICU nurse.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"If an emergency were to arise in the PICU, I would wait patiently for the doctor's orders and assist them in whatever they need. If there is an immediate danger to a child in my care, I would act quickly to take measures to stabilize the patient to the best of my abilities until further direction is given. In moments like these, I wouldn't hesitate or let my emotions get the best of me while I dedicate my focus to the patient."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
29. Tell me about a time you had to communicate bad news to a patient or family member. How did you effectively communicate that news?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a registered nurse in the pediatric ICU setting, the need to communicate effectively with the parents of your patients is vital. There may be times when you have to help deliver horrifying and life-altering news to the families of your patients, and your interviewer will be looking to see how you handled yourself in similar situations by showing empathy and composure.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Prior to your interview, think back to a time when you had to have a difficult conversation. Talk openly about what made the communication difficult and how you prepared and ultimately delivered the communication. To really sell yourself in your ability to handle delivering bad news to the families of PICU patients, talk about your ability to understand their perspective and that you are open and available for questions from the family.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a pediatric nurse early in my career, my physician received lab results from a young patient found to have a brain tumor. When the patient and family were called in for their consult, the physician and I were both in the room when the news was delivered. In that situation, it is hard not to break down in tears with the family but I knew that they were looking at me to be a person with strength and to have answers to their questions. The physician and I were able to walk them through their next steps and options moving forward with their child's diagnosis and they truly appreciated that."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
30. Talk about the most stressful situation you've had to deal with in the workplace. What did you learn from that situation that you can bring to our team as a PICU nurse?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Registered nurses in the PICU setting can find themselves in very stressful working conditions from time to time due to a variety of reasons. Given the highly specialized nature of pediatric intensive care and the patient situations they deal with, the stress can be both physical and psychological. With this question, your interviewer is looking to see how you personally manage stressful situations in the workplace to get a feel for how you will handle these times as a part of their unit.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a specific time you had to manage a stressful situation on the job as a registered nurse, describe how you handled it, talk about what tools or resources you used, and explain what the outcome was. If possible, talk about specific coping techniques you used to help you through that particular situation to prove your ability to handle the mental and physical toll that working as a PICU nurse will no doubt involve.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"The exhausting stress that comes with seeing patients in their most vulnerable state and witnessing things some people go their whole life without seeing is a necessary part of this rewarding career. Early in my career as an emergency nurse, I was working a night shift when patients from a bad car accident were brought in. Right away, three emergency response teams brought in two pediatric patients and an adult patient that were badly injured. Given that we were a team of two physicians and three nurses that night, we immediately went into triage and stabilization mode. Given the severity of the injuries to the pediatric patients, it was essential to not let emotion take over. To do this, I kept their health and well-being in mind and went to work. This mindset helped our entire team stabilize a patient for air transport and the other two into surgery very quickly. Looking back at this situation over 10 years ago, it taught me so much about stress and crisis management that I still use to this day in my career."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
31. What are some action steps you could take to alleviate stress for a patient's family in our PICU?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Families coping with a child in critical care are often scared, stressed, and experiencing feelings they've never felt before. The PICU nursing team is often relied upon to help turn a very sad situation into a potentially positive one for both the patient and their family. In posing a question like this during your interview, your interviewer seeks to be assured that you are aware that some of your duties as a PICU nurse on their team include consoling and making the families of patients feel at home and at ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
One of your main goals as you answer this question is to show how you can humanize the experience for families by letting them know that they are seen and valued. You want to reiterate that you would check in with them every so often and do little things like remind them where the cafeteria is. There really is nothing you can do to lessen their internal stress and grief, but you can encourage them to stick to a daily routine and take a walk away from the PICU while assuring them that their child is in the best care possible. For families that are on an extended stay, you can help encourage parents that going back to work is healthy.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Having never experienced what the parents of your patients are feeling when their child is in pediatric intensive care, I can't imagine the roller coaster of emotions that they are going through. I would see my role as being an extended part of their family that is the ultimate caregiver. I would encourage parents to take walks away from the unit to eat, get some fresh air, and call family members to update them. I would continually reiterate that their child is in the best care possible. I would always be there to answer questions they may have and wouldn't hesitate to connect a new family in the unit to one that has been there for some time to talk and connect."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
32. Talk about a time you had to deal with an upset or sad patient or family member as an RN. How did you handle the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Navigating a wide range of emotions in the pediatric intensive care setting requires not only working hands-on with children in need of intensive care, but also with the family members who are responsible for the child. Your interviewer wants to know that you are capable of addressing the needs of the family members and patients in their PICU when bad news is delivered or when people are struggling emotionally with a diagnosis.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Being able to identify stressors that may affect a family member of a PICU patient is important in this role. You ideally want to highlight to your interviewer that you will always have an empathetic and understanding approach while you educate the family members on all the steps of their loved ones' care. Be sure to stress that your caring approach will help ease the minds of both patients and their family members because that sense of ease helps the healing process in young patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"One thing about NICU nursing is that the patient is not always the only 'patient,' so to speak. I have learned that being a good pediatric nurse also means being able to communicate with family members who are unsure of what to expect or who don't quite understand a diagnosis--this takes a great deal of stress off of them. Last year, I had a young patient who was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia, and his mother immediately broke down in tears. The child, who was three, didn't understand what was happening and I took the time to console the mother and reassure her that her child would be in the best care possible with our pediatric oncology team. I helped lay out an initial care plan for her and left the rest in the hands of our oncology team. She gave me a great big hug at the end of the appointment and thanked me for consoling her."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Situational
33. What do you do to help keep yourself from becoming overwhelmed on the job when you have multiple patients or competing priorities?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The rapidly changing circumstances for patients in pediatric intensive care make the ability to prioritize and multitask as a PICU nurse essential. In asking this question, your interviewer seeks to be reassured that you would come to their team with the ability to be very detail-oriented in the care you provide to each patient while also having the ability to change pace at a moment's notice when needed. They'll also be looking to hear that you can do this with ease.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Managing patient care requires the ability to multitask and ensure all details are checked and double-checked. As you answer this question, you'll want to discuss your understanding of the importance of maintaining detailed records, caregiver education, performing multiple assessments, and handling medications and procedures efficiently and accurately because success as a PICU nurse requires all of these skills.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"Having worked for the last six years in a busy inpatient neuro/peds/trauma unit, I feel very confident in my skills in managing a highly acute patient load in your NICU. The skills I have developed include strong communication skills and organizational skills. In my current role, I can quickly be called to a patient's room that has an emergent situation. In these cases, communicating to my care team what is happening and what needs to be done with other patients is vital. Also, jotting a quick note down on things that I have to come back to helps keep me organized and stress-free at the end of the day."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Technical
34. Do you have any hands-on experience in hemodynamic monitoring that you would bring to our pediatric ICU?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Pediatric intensive care patients most often require having things like their blood pressure, heart function, and other blood flow measures watched closely. Your interviewer asks this question to hopefully hear that you have hands-on experience in some of the different types of hemodynamic monitoring.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
Openly and honestly discuss your experience using ECG monitoring, kidney functioning, pulse oximetry, arterial pressure monitoring, or any other techniques for monitoring how blood flows through a patient's body. If you feel like your experience falls a bit short of what will be required in this role as a PICU nurse, make sure to reiterate to your interviewer that you would join their team with an open mind and the ability to train on any new equipment required for the job.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"I know that monitoring blood flow and heart function is critical to just about any patient that you have in your pediatric ICU. As you can see from my application materials, I spent three years working in a cardiac ICU in a large medical center and this experience exposed me to CVPs and EKG monitoring. I have hands-on experience in assisting with single CVP catheter placement and would jump at any chance to retrain on these skills here in your PICU."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Technical
35. Talk about the IV skills that you would you bring to our PICU nursing team. Will you be comfortable working on pediatric patients with this skill?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One of the skills that PICU nurses will be expected to have is starting intravenous lines (IVs) in the pediatric patients they will be working with. Starting an IV can be very traumatizing and painful for young children, particularly infants, and your interviewers need to be assured that any PICU nurse they hire will be comfortable and skilled in working with their patients.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
How to Answer
To successfully answer this question, you should elaborate on your ability and experience in starting and managing IVs throughout your career. A more successful answer would include an example of when you successfully handled a difficult circumstance while starting and/or managing an IV. To cap your answer, highlight any experiences you have working IV lines into pediatric patients and emphasize that you are ready to learn and master any additional skills needed on the patients you will be working with in this role.
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022
Answer Example
"The RN position I held before my current job in pediatrics was at an infusion center, and there I spent most of my days starting and managing patient IVs as they received their infusion medications. Because I worked in the infusion center for so long, starting them is almost second nature to me. Many times, I find that patients are anxious about getting IVs, even in an infusion center environment where they come in every so many weeks to get their medication. The PICU environment will be quite different, and I know that helping to manage and minimize the pain in children is super important. I would be very comfortable in applying my IV skills in the PICU, but would look into receiving some hands-on training with your experienced nurses if hired."
Written by Ryan Brunner on May 11th, 2022