30 Pediatric Residency Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Pediatric Residency interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 8 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 3. Capability Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Diligence Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Education Questions
- 10. Situational Questions
- 11. Stress Questions
- 12. Teamwork Questions
- 13. Tough Questions
Accomplishment
1. What has been your greatest achievement on your path to becoming a pediatrician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments on your path to becoming a pediatrician. Talking about your most significant achievement will give the interviewers an idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewers more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest achievement so far was completing medical school with a newly adopted child. My sister died when I was in my second year of medical school, and she left behind my three-month-old niece. There was no one else to take care of her, and she would have gone into foster care. I underwent the adoption process and was allowed to adopt her six months later. I completed medical school despite the challenge of having a young child, which made me stronger and more responsible. She is also why I switched from wanting to work in emergency medicine to pediatrics. Children are such a joy, and I have a natural affinity for working with them."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Ask The Interviewer
2. Do you have any questions about our residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most residency programs will have a detailed description on their website stating what is involved with the program, clinical rotations, the primary teaching site, accredited length of training, the residency directors, mentoring, and more. The interviewers want to see that you have researched their program and do not want to answer questions you could have found on their website, showing a lack of attention to detail. Good questions to ask are how the interviewers perceive their program compared to others, what feedback they have received from graduates, the program's strengths, if they offer community service programs during residency, and if any changes are anticipated in the program in the next three to five years.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"After reading your detailed website and speaking with many of your fellows and residents, most of my questions were answered. I do have a few questions, though. What type of practices are most of your graduates going into after their residency? What type of feedback are you receiving from your graduates? Finally, what would you describe as your program's strengths?"
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Capability
3. How do you keep your emotions from interfering with your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Working in healthcare can be emotional at times. It is normal to feel emotions when working as a physician, but it is imperative to channel them so they do not interfere with your work. Taking good care of your mental and physical health helps channel those emotions, so you can maintain composure when facing work challenges. Let the interviewers know how you remain professional when faced with an emotional workday.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"It is hard not to feel emotional when losing a patient, seeing a child in pain, or having to deliver bad news, but I knew it was part of the job going in. I keep my emotions from affecting my work by talking with my colleagues or husband if something is bothering me and taking care of myself away from work. I like to run, which helps clear my mind when feeling emotional. I also think of the good things about a patient I have lost or who is diagnosed with a life-changing condition and do not focus on the sad part. It's easy to keep my emotions from interfering with my work when I know I must be strong for my patients and their families."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Capability
4. How would you try to calm down an upset pediatric patient?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a pediatrician, you must have compassion and patience when working with your pediatric patients. Many will be scared to go to the doctor, and they will naturally be upset if they are sick or injured. When a pediatric patient is upset, you want to get down on their level, take time for them to warm up to you, use appropriate terms for their age, make the environment comfortable, and let them have a toy or caregiver to comfort them. The interviewers want to hear your techniques for comforting an upset patient to gain insight into your compassionate nature, problem-solving skills, and communication skills.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"It depends on the age of the child. Infants are going to be different in calming down than older patients. But overall, I approach the patient slowly while introducing myself. I would have the parent or caregiver hold the child if it makes them feel more comfortable and get to their eye level. If the patient had a stuffed animal or toy with them, I would offer it to them or have the parent offer it to them. Before doing anything to the patient, I would explain everything I would do. If I were to listen to their lung sounds, I would show them the stethoscope and have them hold it and listen through it if they wanted to. I have two nieces and would practice the same techniques as I do with them. Talking in a soothing voice and distracting them from the situation always seems to help."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Career Goals
5. Do you aspire to have your own practice one day? If so, what about business ownership interests you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The American Medical Association (AMA) reports that in 2020 only 49% of pediatricians worked in private practice, down from 54% in 2018. The interviewers ask this question to understand your career goals and where you see yourself working after completing your residency and/or fellowship. If you do not plan to own your own business, explain why. If you would like to start a practice in the future, describe why business ownership appeals to you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not plan on having my own practice one day. While I consider myself an entrepreneur and love the idea of owning a business, the thought of starting a practice does not interest me. Working in a hospital or established practice is more appealing because I want to focus on being a pediatrician rather than a business owner."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Career Goals
6. What are your career goals after completing the residency program?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the U.S., statistically, 50% of pediatric residency graduates go into primary care, while 50% pursue a fellowship. The interviewers are curious about your career goals to see how they can support you during your residency. If you are interested in pursuing a fellowship, they want to know your sub-specialty. Or perhaps your goal is to work as a pediatrician at a children's hospital or conduct pediatric research. Let the interviewers know your career goals and why you chose them.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"After completing my residency, I want to pursue a fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine. This subspecialty interests me because infants and some young children cannot voice their complaints. I want to help give these children a voice by helping treat a child in distress using the knowledge I will gain in anesthesia, trauma management, and pediatric critical care. After completing my fellowship, my goal is to get hired at a children's hospital as a pediatric emergency medicine physician."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Career Goals
7. After completing your residency, do you plan to pursue a fellowship?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Over 50% of graduating pediatric residents in the United States pursue a fellowship. The interviewers are curious about your career goals after you complete the residency program and if you will be one of the over 50% who pursues a fellowship. They want to see what sub-specialty interests you and why you chose to pursue a fellowship. There is no wrong answer, and this is not a trick question. The interviewers just want to get to know your future goals a little better.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I plan on pursuing an emergency medicine fellowship after graduating from the residency program. I worked as an EMT for two years before attending medical school, and I enjoy emergency medicine. The fellowship program I hope to match includes rotations in pediatric critical care, toxicology, child abuse, trauma, and anesthesia. After my fellowship, I will be applying for a position at a children's hospital as an emergency medicine pediatrician."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Career Goals
8. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a future pediatrician, you could take many career paths after residency. The interviewers want to know where you see yourself in ten years to determine if you set professional goals and what career path you would like to take. Describe if you see yourself in private practice, providing primary care in an established medical facility, working in community practice, or working in academia.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"In ten years, I see myself working as a developmental and behavioral pediatrician at a children's hospital in Tennessee since my family lives there. After my residency, I will be applying for a developmental and behavioral pediatric fellowship. My focus is on working with children with autism, cerebral palsy, and complex ADHD."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Compatibility
9. What are your strengths?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to determine if your strengths will complement and benefit the program and your role as a pediatric resident. Think of the personal strengths that make you excellent at your job. Advantages can be skills or qualities that help you overcome difficult circumstances or accomplish challenging tasks. In a work context, your strengths will help you stay organized, understand patient needs, and help you to apply what you have learned in your training. Talk to the interviewer about a couple of your strengths and why those will help you to be successful during your residency.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"My strengths are my thirst for knowledge, strong work ethic, and active listening skills. I look forward to working with attending physicians to train me further as a pediatrician. I actively listen to my patients and their caregivers, mentors, and colleagues, which earns their respect and trust. I always arrive early to work and do tasks before I am told. I actively seek ways to help others and look forward to bringing these strengths to your program as a resident."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Compatibility
10. What qualities make an excellent pediatrician?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what you think makes an excellent pediatrician, as you will most likely name traits you possess yourself. Outstanding pediatricians are patient, compassionate, kind, empathetic, and dedicated. They are committed to their profession and have exceptional critical thinking and communication skills. Describe what you believe are the top qualities that will help you succeed in this field and make you an excellent pediatrician.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe many qualities make an excellent pediatrician. You must be compassionate, patient, and dedicated to working in this field. It takes time to complete many years of training, and when done, pediatricians must take the time to listen to their patients' caregivers while providing compassionate care. Excellent pediatricians also have analytical and critical-thinking skills, which help diagnose and treat highly complex disorders. I possess these skills and know they will help me succeed as a pediatrician."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Diligence
11. How do you stay current with the ongoing advancements in pediatric medicine?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a future pediatrician, staying current with the ongoing advancements in your industry is essential. There are many ways you can stay up-to-date with changes in your profession, such as continuing education, talking with colleagues, attending conferences, reading articles, listening to podcasts, and reading medical journals. The interviewers would like to hear that you are proactive and diligent in staying current with ongoing advancements. Describe your methods of staying up-to-date on the latest industry news.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I stay current with the ongoing advancements in pediatric medicine in many ways. I subscribe to several medical blogs, such as 700 Children's and The Pedia Blog, that deliver a message to my email when there is a new blog outlining the latest trends. I also read scholarly orthopedic articles and listen to the Pediatrics On Call Podcast every morning on my way to work. I have also attended three pediatric medicine conferences in the past three years that always has the latest on advancements in the field."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Diligence
12. After researching our curriculum, what rotation are you looking forward to the most, and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every pediatric residency program will have its own rotation schedule, which you most likely saw when researching the residency program. The interviewers ask this question to see where your interests lie in pediatric medicine and to see that you have thoroughly researched their residency program. Explain what rotation you most look forward to and why.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am looking forward to every rotation you offer, but the one I am most excited about is the newborn nursery rotation. I am particularly interested in that rotation as I assisted in five deliveries during medical school, and it was the most fantastic experience I have ever had. I love seeing the joy on the family's faces when they see their newborn and being able to witness their first bonding moments. I very much look forward to the newborn nursery rotation and am excited it's in the first two weeks of the residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Diligence
13. Tell us about a day in the life of a pediatric resident.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Every specialty will have a slightly different day in the life of a resident. The interviewers want to see that you have done your homework and understand your daily life as a pediatric resident. Some programs describe what a resident's day looks like on their website. If the program you applied to does not have that information, speak with former or current fellows and residents or visit the university or medical center and talk to the program directors. It would be best if you understood what your day entails before starting the program, so there are no surprises.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I spoke with several of your graduates who described the day in the life of a pediatric resident, so I have a good understanding of what to expect. The workday starts at 6:30 a.m., and I will pre-round my assigned patients. The attending physician arrives at 9, and we will round on the patients and discuss any changes in the patient and their treatment plans. At noon, I will grab a quick lunch, finish my notes, and make calls to update families. After lunch, I will provide direct patient care until 5:00 p.m. when my shift ends, unless it is my turn to be on call."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Direct
14. Why should we choose you over other applicants?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, a pediatric residency has a high overall match rate of 97%. However, the interviewers still want to hear why they should choose you over others competing to match. While there are many qualified candidates, you must let the interviewers know why you are a top-notch applicant. Tell the interviewers about your away rotations, research experience, volunteer work, USMLE scores, and any other achievements or accolades that will make the interviewers remember you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"You should choose me over applicants because of my dedication, research experience, and leadership skills. I applied for an away rotation with your program and demonstrated my work ethic to house staff and my attending physician. They saw my attention to detail and communication skills and highly recommended that I be accepted into your program. I have clinical research experience and published several peer-reviewed articles on trends in homicide rates in children O to 17 and the surge in pediatric firearm injuries during the pandemic. Also, I have demonstrated my leadership skills as an AMA medical student outreach leader and student member of the AMA Foundation Board. I am excited about this opportunity and hope to match with your wonderful residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Direct
15. Describe a time when you had your ethics tested.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a physician, you may sometimes be asked to do unethical things. The interviewers ask this question to see that you are honest and have integrity. They want to hear that you have morals and can be trusted in your position. Some examples could be witnessing someone cheat or steal something or someone asking you to do something you knew was morally wrong. Describe a time you had your ethics tested and how you responded.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I had my ethics tested during my second year of medical school. A classmate asked me to help him cheat on a test because he had not had time to study. Even though we were friends, I told him I could not ethically help him cheat and that, as physicians, we are held to a higher standard. After that, I found it very hard to be friends with him since I do not condone that behavior."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
16. What is your favorite thing to do for fun?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is common for interviewers to ask what outside interests you have when not working or going to school. They want to hear about your favorite fun activity to see you know how to destress from your job as a physician, showing a healthy work/life balance. Describe your favorite thing to do for fun and explain why you enjoy that activity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"My favorite fun activity is white-water kayaking. I live 5 miles from a river and go kayaking as much as possible. It's a great adrenaline rush and a way to stay in shape. When I'm on the water, all I can think about is what I'm doing and how the river is flowing. There is no time to think about life's stressors as the river is very dynamic. After spending time on the river, I feel much more peaceful, happy, and ready to take on anything."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
17. What made you choose our residency program over others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In the United States, there are currently 210 pediatric residency programs. The interviewers want to hear that you have researched their program in depth and that you have also compared their program to many others. When responding to this question, highlight unique aspects of their pediatric residency program that stand out from others. You may want to participate in their program because of their stellar reputation, dynamic and interactive training program, or because they are a research hospital. Let the interviewers know your reasons for choosing their residency program over others.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose your residency program over others for several reasons. First, my grandfather was a resident in your pediatric program and highly recommended the training and guidance he received. Secondly, your program was the first pediatric residency program in the country. After researching your program in greater depth, I was excited to see that you offer many opportunities in research, teaching, and patient care. You offer pathways for residents with specific career interests in medical education, patient safety, quality improvement, and global health. After reading all you have to offer and with the recommendation from my grandfather, there is no other program I would rather attend."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
18. Have you considered other specialties for your residency?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interview panel asks this question to see if there are other medical specialties you have considered. Your response will show them what interests you and where your strengths lie. There is no wrong answer, but you want to assure the interviewers that pediatrics is your number one choice.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I have not considered other specialties. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work with the pediatric population. After doing my pediatric clerkship, it further solidified that I made the right career choice."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
19. In your opinion, what does pediatrics look like in the future?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
With the constant advancements in medicine, the future will undoubtedly look different than it does now. The interviewers ask this question to hear what you foresee in the future of pediatrics to see that you are forward-thinking and stay current on advancements in your chosen field. Describe how you see pediatrics in the future.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I have been following this topic, and I see the future of pediatrics as having an increase in the number of prevention programs to spread awareness about childhood diseases and to educate communities on how to live more healthy lives. I also see fewer in-person office visits and more of a telemedicine or telehealth approach taking place. Due to the rising costs of running a solo or small group practice, I see more pediatricians working for private companies and fewer pediatricians entering the workforce with the reduced number of medical students entering pediatrics."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
20. After researching our program, what electives interest you and why?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers ask this question to understand what interests you and why. They want to see where you will succeed in the program and how they can help you along the way. They also want to know if you have looked over the program and what is offered. Describe the electives you wish to take and explain why those electives interest you.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I am most interested in working with pediatric patients who have had a stroke, the electives I found most interesting are cognitive disorders, rehabilitation medicine, outpatient stroke, and palliative care. These electives will give me a broad understanding of working with pediatric stroke patients and how to help rehabilitate them. These electives will also teach me how to explain to the patient's family the patient's diagnosis and prognosis and how they can help in the rehabilitation process."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
21. What made you choose pediatrics as a specialty?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what inspires and motivates you to pursue this career. They want to hear if another pediatrician mentored you, if you have family or friends who work in healthcare, or if you received excellent care from a pediatrician when you were a child.
Focus on giving your personal reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewers want to gain insight into what made you pursue this career path to see if you will be a good fit for their residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I chose pediatrics as a specialty because I want to positively impact young children's lives. Many of our youth nowadays have unhealthy lifestyles and will grow up to be sick adults. As a pediatrician, I can help guide parents and caregivers to prevent childhood illness and disease. Also, children are naturally drawn to me. I don't know if it's because I am a father, but I have a natural affinity with children and feel pediatrics is my calling."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
22. Tell us something about yourself that is not found on your CV.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers would like to learn more about you as a person. While you cannot share everything about your personal life and accomplishments on your CV, there must be something you are proud of that you would like to share. If possible, share something about yourself that shows the interviewers you would be a good fit for the residency program. For example, if you share that you compete in marathons, the interviewers will see that you are dedicated and diligent, both essential qualities for residents to possess.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"Something I am proud of that is not on my CV is how I volunteer with an NGO that helps children in developing countries who suffer from tropical diseases. I have taken on a managerial role, organizing and producing fundraising events. In the past three years in this role, I have helped raise over three million dollars with my strategic marketing plan. The money is used for teams of physicians and nurses to go to the communities that need help, and the children are offered free care and treatment. After my residency, I will be a part of the team that goes and provides pediatric medical care, which I am really looking forward to."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
23. What was the last book you read for pleasure?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Medical students are not expected only to read medical books, and the interviewers understand this. They want to see if you are the type of person to read for pleasure, and if so, what interests you. If you do not enjoy reading during your downtime, describe other ways you stimulate your mind, such as listening to podcasts. Also, be sure if you have read a book for pleasure recently, that it is not something that would offend or embarrass the interviewers. If you enjoy reading, describe the last book you have read and give a brief synopsis.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I am reading a fictional book called A Case of Need by Michael Crichton. This is the author's debut award-winning novel, written shortly after he completed his medical internship. It's a riveting book based on a surgical operation that ended in death. Afterward, questions are raised if the death was due to accidental malpractice, a violation of the Hippocratic oath, or cold-blooded murder. I enjoy true-crime and murder mystery books, and this one is particularly interesting because the author went to medical school, and his writing is spot on."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
24. How do you deal with constructive criticism, even when delivered in a manner you do not prefer?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You will undoubtedly be given constructive criticism during your pediatric residency. Sometimes the feedback will not be delivered respectfully, while other times, it will. The interviewers want to see that you can handle any feedback and realize that no matter how constructive criticism is delivered, it is an opportunity for you to grow professionally. Describe how you deal with constructive criticism and use it as a learning opportunity.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I value constructive criticism. Generally, the person giving me feedback has more experience and knowledge than I do, so I see it as a learning opportunity to grow professionally. I understand everyone has different communication styles, so I do not take it personally if the feedback is delivered differently than I would give."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Discovery
25. What experience do you have working with the pediatric population?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a valid question since you will be working with children. Your response gives the interviewers a glimpse into your past interactions with the pediatric population and what type of pediatric resident you might be. If you have worked with children before, you will be more comfortable working with the pediatric population than an applicant who hasn't. Describe your experience working with children, even if it is taking care of your nieces and nephews or babysitting for a friend. Also, be sure to mention any pediatric clerkship you may have done in medical school.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I started babysitting when I was 12 and would babysit almost every weekend until I turned 18. I cared for infants and children up to 11 or 12 years old. After I graduated high school, I worked at a preschool as a teacher's aide for four years while obtaining my bachelor's degree. During medical school, I did a pediatric clerkship and was exposed to various pediatric patients with various medical conditions. I also have three younger siblings and grew up helping my parents take care of them, so I have quite a bit of experience working with the pediatric population."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Education
26. Tell us about your training that qualifies you to enter our residency program.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
To become a pediatrician, you need four years of undergraduate school and four years of medical school before applying to a pediatric residency program. If you have made it to the interview, you must have met the requirements to apply. The interviewers would like you to describe the steps you have taken to meet their requirements. Be sure to mention where you received your education and how it has prepared you for the pediatric residency program.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I received my Bachelor's Degree in Health Sciences from the University of California San Diego and then attended medical school at Stanford University after sitting for the Medical College Admissions Test. I obtained my Doctor of Medicine degree and completed my rotations, where I gravitated toward pediatrics. I recently completed my one-year internship and am prepared and qualified to advance in the pediatric residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Situational
27. How would you handle an angry parent of one of your patients?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a pediatric resident and future pediatrician, you will have a parent or caregiver who may sometimes become angry with you. Parents become emotional when their child is sick or injured and take out their anger and frustration on those trying to help their child. The interviewers want to hear how you would handle an angry parent to gain insight into your problem-solving, communication, leadership, and conflict-resolution skills. Tell the interviewers how you would calmly and professionally handle frustrated parents. If you had an experience with an angry parent during your clinical training, use that experience in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I had an experience during my emergency department clinicals where a father became angry with me because he thought we were harming his two-year-old son, who had been involved in a bad car accident. I needed to place an IO in the child's leg, and the father was in the room when I started the procedure. He started yelling at me, and I calmly explained the procedure and how it would help his son. I told him we needed a route to give his son fluids and medications and that this was the best way to do it. I also told him that he would have to leave the room if he would not calm down and let us treat his son. One of the other nurses pulled the father to a corner of the room, and he calmed down. I believe that any angry parent or caregiver they are scared and take out their frustration on those trying to help. I never take angry outbursts personally and always explain what I am doing so they can see I am transparent and am not trying to harm their child."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Stress
28. What part of medical school was the most stressful for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers want to hear what part of medical school was most stressful to determine what aspects of the residency program may be challenging. They also want to hear how you managed your stress so they can understand your coping mechanisms. Describe what you found most stressful and what steps you took to reduce your stress. You could also break down the most stressful part of each year and how you coped, showing the interviewers that you successfully managed your stress as each year progressed.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"I cannot name one thing that was the most stressful, as each year had new stressors. The most stressful part of my first year was getting used to the fast-paced environment and learning large amounts of information in a short amount of time. The board exams made my second year stressful, and my third year was getting close to applying for residency. By my fourth year, I had learned to manage my stress by staying focused and organized. I developed a great study system and used my downtime to exercise and rest. After attending medical school, I know I am ready for whatever stress I might experience in my residency program."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Teamwork
29. How will you earn the trust of your colleagues?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
It is essential to nurture workplace relationships, as you will spend many hours with your colleagues during your career. Talk to the interviewers about how you plan to earn the trust of your new colleagues if matched to the residency.
Focus on giving examples from your past. Describe how you earned the trust of your coworkers or classmates by getting to know them and their families, keeping your word when you say you are going to do something, lending a hand when others need help, or covering a coworker's shift when they have a family emergency.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"The best way to earn the trust of my colleagues is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles. I also will show them common courtesy, such as saying hello, asking how their day is going, getting to know about their families, and respecting the use of their time."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Tough
30. How do you cope when losing a patient?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a pediatrician, there will be times when you will have patients that do not survive their illness or injury, despite the efforts you made. The interviewers want to hear that you have coping mechanisms to keep from becoming overwhelmed with the loss of life, especially when they are a child. It is essential for healthcare professionals to have someone they can speak with and have healthy avenues to decompress to prevent burnout, illness, and injury. Describe how you cope when you lose a patient.
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022
Answer Example
"It is never easy losing a patient. As a physician, I got into this profession to help people, so it is sad to see anyone die. But I knew that was part of the job before going to medical school, so I have the mindset that patients will unfortunately not always make it. I cope by knowing I did the best I could for them. If a particular death bothers me more than others, I talk with colleagues, which always seems to help. I also take care of myself mentally and physically so the grief doesn't take control of my emotions."
Written by Krista Wenz on December 21st, 2022