62 Radiology Interview Questions (+ Answers)

List of 62 Radiology Interview Questions & Answers

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1.

Would those who know you best say that you endure to the end or move on to other things?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have always been one to finish what I start, no matter how difficult or daunting the task my seem. Being in Radiology, I have found that there are many moving parts at a time which can make it difficult to see everything to completion. I will utilize my resources as much as necessary in order to ensure that the job is complete before moving on."

2.

Have you ever made a mistake in the radiology field?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Earlier in my Radiology career I made a perceptual error while reading an x-ray. It lead to a delayed cancer diagnosis which was very difficult for me to come to terms with. I owned up to the error immediately and made sure to study additional cases that were similar in order to ensure the mistake didn't happen again."

3.

Tell me about your education. Which courses were you most interested in? Which ones were the most difficult?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My best course in school was on interventional radiology. I found the concepts to be very exciting and interesting. My most challenging course was on collimators for nuclear medicine. Since graduating, I have worked on multiple case studies surrounding this topic in order to strengthen my skills in this area." Heather Douglass wrote: "I was most interested in my Pediatric courses. The ones that were the most difficult were in my last year because I was working part time in addition to finishing up my coursework."

4.

What branch of radiology are you interested in?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I am very interested in all types of Radiology, however; the one area that I am most interested in therapeutic radiology." Heather Douglass wrote: "I'm interested in Radiation Oncology. I'm back in school and have 3 months until I finish my specialty."

5.

Describe a recent problem you had with one of your manager's decisions. How did you handle it?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "In my current position, the hospital administrator often makes choices that we do not all agree with when it comes to the hospital network. Understanding that we all have our strengths and areas of expertise, I do try to just roll with the decisions and keep my focus on my work." Heather Douglass wrote: "A recent managers decision was to not grant leave to a fellow co-worker. I assured the manager that I was going to be available and would take the on-call phone. After helping the manager rearrange the schedule my co-worker was able to go on vacation after all."

6.

What does endurance mean to you?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "To me, endurance is being able to forge through a day no matter how difficult it may seem. Being able to take a step back and re-assess difficult situations to overcome trials is another form of endurance, in my opinion."

7.

Why did you choose your area of specialty in radiology?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I chose Radiology as my area of specialty because I feel that it is an area of medicine that isn't as popular or talked about. It's incredibly important to me and I realized this at a young age when this practice saved my mother's life." Heather Douglass wrote: "I knew Radiology was a growing field and I wanted to be a part of it. I love children and knew I wanted to help them so I chose Pediatric Radiology."

8.

Have you ever been described as compassionate? Do you feel that compassion is an important quality to have as a Radiologist?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have most definitely been described as a compassionate individual. I believe that everyone should exude compassion, but especially those in the medical field. It's an incredibly important quality to have."

9.

What makes a good leader?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "During my Fellowship, I had a really amazing leader. She was thoughtful, attentive, and thorough. I believe these qualities are what made her team want to listen, and learn, from her. I always told myself that when I am in a leadership function, I would try to emulate those qualities as well."

10.

Describe what you feel to be an ideal work environment.

Rachelle Enns wrote: "To me, an ideal work environment is a place where everyone feels important and a place where everyone can learn openly. I work best in an environment where employees are nurtured and encouraged to grow."

11.

In your opinion, should radiology services be available 24/7?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I do think that radiology services should be available 24/7. It would help to fast forward a lot of the wait lists and increase our ability, as physicians, to help patients in a much shorter timeline."

12.

Tell me your thoughts on ethics in the hospital.

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Ethics in the hospital are the most important consideration. We, as physicians, are held to the highest standards and it should always be that way. People put their trust in us and their lives in our hands."

13.

How do you fill downtime?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I really enjoy staying busy and productive. In a medical setting, there is rarely downtime, however; if I were to have downtime I would first ask a colleague if they needed any assistance. Second, I would read additional research papers to improve my knowledge in my field. Being productive is very important to me." Heather Douglass wrote: " In my downtime I enjoy reading research papers and articles in medical journals to improve my knowledge in the field."

14.

In your opinion, what are the top 3 qualities a radiologist should have?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I believe that the top 3 qualities a Radiologist should have are compassion, analytical skills and attention to detail. With these primary qualities, you can help any patient and be a successful member of any medical team."

15.

How would you handle a situation with tight deadlines, low employee morale, and inadequate resources?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have been accustomed to working in ideal work situations where morale is high and resources are plenty. I have, however, worked as a volunteer in third world situations. It's important to work in situations like this so that we can appreciate what we have here in America. During this volunteer time I was able to really think outside of the box when it came to care of patients. You have to utilized what you are given and keep a positive attitude." Heather Douglass wrote: "A heart felt thank you and compliment to a co-worker can mean a lot during a time of stress." Heather Douglass wrote: "A heart felt thank you and compliment to a co-worker can mean a lot during a time of stress."

16.

How do you go about securing buy-in from administration, physicians, department heads and your own staff?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I go about ensuring buy-in from my colleagues through being a clear and honest communicator. My ideas area always well thought out and easy to follow which helps significantly." Heather Douglass wrote: "I have a great working relationship with my entire team. If I ever pitched an idea or needed buy in from the team I know they would respect me enough to hear my thoughts and ideas to help them make an informed decision."

17.

Describe a time that you have read a piece of research then implemented the findings into your workplace.

Heather Douglass wrote: "After reading more about Pediatric Radiology from my MEDLinx app, I was able to learn some new tips to calm children when getting an MRI. I was able to use them on one of our last patients and it worked perfectly!"

18.

Tell me about your last performance review. What was mentioned about how you could improve? Any re-occurring themes?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "In my performance reviews, my supervisor has discussed some strategies and given me suggestions on how to slow down a little bit. I need to take more time to thoroughly explain any medical diagnosis to the residents and patients. Sometimes I just get into my own head a little bit and move at my own pace." Heather Douglass wrote: "All of my performance reviews have been positive and constructive. I've been reminded that I need to break for lunches and leave on time each day. I have a habit of getting caught up in my work and working through lunch. I've realized that I need a break each day. I've made a point to take my lunch breaks away from the office, outside or with friends. Its gives me chance to decompress even when I don't think I need to."

19.

What medical journals do you read regularly?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I read medical journals quite often because I am able to learn so much from them and I really enjoy hearing about the amazing advances in medical. My favorite reads are The New England Journal of Medicine, The Journal of the American Medical Association, The British Medical Journal and The Lancet." Heather Douglass wrote: "I have the MDlinx app on my phone for quick reference. During my downtime, lunch breaks and when I need to reference something I utilize the Journal Summaries quickly at my fingertips."

20.

What do you think initiative is and how have you applied it to your jobs in the past?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "To me, initiative means taking control of a situation or job without being asked. It means exercising your ability to be in the know when it comes to your teams needs. I demonstrate initiative through keeping a pulse on the needs of my team and taking action without being asked." Heather Douglass wrote: "Taking initiative to me is being a good leader. I've shown my past leadership that I'm a good leader and have been asked numerous times to lead before I can volunteer to do so."

21.

What are your salary expectations?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Currently, I am earning a salary of X. In my next position, I would like to see an increase to Y. What range are you offering for this position?" Heather Douglass wrote: "I've researched the locations salary and have found that it is comparable to what I'm currently making."

22.

What type of work schedule are you looking for?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I understand that as a Radiologist, my hours may be sporadic and not always pre-determined. I went into this field with a strong understanding that I would be expected to work a wide range of hours. I can make myself available whenever needed." Heather Douglass wrote: "I am looking for a full-time schedule ideally working Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. I am available to work later into the evenings, and I am available to pull call as necessary."

23.

The schedule shows 8 patients are due however only 5 showed up. How does that make you feel? What would you do?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "As a Radiologist, there are days that will not turn out how you expect them to. I understand that completely. If I were to have 8 patients booked and only 5 showed up, I would take it in stride. If possible, I would ask my administrator to call our wait list and book additional patients last minute. My focus would certainly be to have as productive of a day as possible." Heather Douglass wrote: "When 5 out of 8 patients show for the day that means that I can get a bit of administrative work done."

24.

How do you demonstrate that you value people for who they are rather than for what they accomplish?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I show appreciation for someone's qualities by telling them. Words of kindness are how I show my co-workers that I appreciate what they accomplish and that I value their contribution." Heather Douglass wrote: "I make a point to praise my employees and provide constructive feedback. We all work well together in the positive work environment we've created for ourselves."

25.

What character trait are you most proud of? How does this trait help you to be successful on a daily basis?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My proudest characteristic is my ability to draw empathy for everyone that I come across, no matter their attitude. It greatly helps me in my success because my patients are able to connect with me, and I with them." Heather Douglass wrote: "My best character trait is my patience. I've found that needing patience is vital to effectively working with colleagues as well as patients." Heather Douglass wrote: "My best character trait is my patience. I've found that needing patience is vital to effectively working with colleagues as well as patients."

26.

What is your relationship like with the other physicians you currently work with?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have strong relationships with other physicians. I truly believe that everyone can teach you something and I am happy to learn from others. In my current team, we all get along very well. Despite multiple personalities being present, we all have a mutual respect for one another." Heather Douglass wrote: "I have a great working relationship with the other medical professional in our hospital. I'm a member of two multidisciplinary teams so effective communication is imperative."

27.

Where do you think radiology is going in the next 5 years?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have been reading a variety of medical journals. Most recently, I came across XYZ journal and an article about the future of radiology. The article pointed out that..."

28.

How do you prevent personal burnout?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I am careful to keep a balance in my life in order to prevent personal burnout. Working out regularly and reading books on my downtime is a very helpful way for me to avoid burnout."

29.

How do you respond to patients who are in chronic pain and perhaps in an unsavoury mood?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I treat all patients the same, no matter the mood they are in. My role as a Radiologist is to provide patients with the utmost care, no matter the emotions or feelings that are being presented. Any patients who are in chronic pain will alway receive the most care and attention from me."

30.

Why do you want to be a Radiologist? Was there a defining moment when you decided to choose radiology as a career path?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have always wanted to be a doctor. When I was in medical school and it was time for me to choose my specialty, radiology really stood out to me because it is a unique and highly technical avenue in medicine. I loved how I could interpret an x-ray like an engineer would interpret a schematic drawing or blueprint. I am very passionate about what I do and have never looked back."

31.

Priorities often change suddenly throughout the day. If you are asked to do another task, how does that affect your mood? What if it's the third time before noon?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Working in the medical field requires adaptability. I completely understand that, as a Radiologist, my daily schedule can be turned upside down quite quickly. My mindset has always been to complete any task that is given to me, based on an urgency basis."

32.

How do you feel about working in an environment that may expose you to negative effects in the long term?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I am not concerned about working in an environment that may expose me to radiation. I believe that my work is important and am willing to take that risk. There are many professions who take larger risks than this on a daily basis."

33.

Tell me about your favorite patient. What was the situation?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My favorite patient so far has been a young woman who was battling cancer. She was so strong and always positive. She was thankful for the care that she received and rarely ever had a frown. It was very inspiring to meet someone so young, with such an incredible attitude - even in the face of death."

34.

If you encountered a resident that was characteristically difficult what would you do?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "If I encountered a resident who was difficult I would, without hesitation, give them open and immediate feedback. As a leader and mentor, I feel that it is my responsibility to ensure that a resident is aware of the attitude requirements that come along with the job as well."

35.

What is the biggest change you would make in your current role?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "If I could change anything about my current role, I would say that it would be easier access to patient files. We do not have the most updated digital system which can make it difficult to streamline communication and organization. They certainly do the best they can there, which I do appreciate."

36.

Tell me about a workplace conflict. What was the situation and how did you handle it?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Not too long ago I witnessed a workplace conflict between a nurse and a fellow Radiologist. I wasn't personally involved but unfortunately I was dragged into the issue because I witnessed the conversation. I kept things professional and simply gave the facts without bias or emotion. I really try to stay out of all workplace conflict and drama."

37.

What are the 3 biggest assets you would bring to this unit?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My 3 biggest assets are my attention to detail, my bedside manner, and the fact that I am willing to learn from my colleagues. These are all helpful qualities that I promise to bring your facility, should I be the successful candidate."

38.

Explain the Gamma Knife treatment.

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a type of radiation therapy used to treat tumors, vascular malformations and other abnormalities in the brain. Gamma knife treatment is excellent because no incision is actually required."

39.

What is radiosurgery?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Radiosurgery delivers a very high dose of radiation to a very small and specific area of the body. Radiosurgery is sometimes a single treatment which makes it very effective."

40.

What is radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment that uses imaging guidance to place a needle electrode through the skin into a liver tumor. High-frequency electrical currents are passed through the electrode, creating heat that destroys the cancer cells. RFA is an effective treatment option for patients who might have difficulty with surgery or those whose tumors are less than one and a half inches in diameter. The success rate for completely eliminating small liver tumors is greater than 85 percent."

41.

How does radiation affect cell development?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I believe that there are two significant ways that radiation affects cell development and DNA. The first is when the water in one's body absorbs a large amount of radiation and becomes ionized. This creates free radicals. These free radicals can react with and damage the DNA molecule. The second occurs when radiation collides with the DNA molecule, itself, ionizing and damaging it directly."

42.

How much radiation can the human body handle?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "We measure radiation in microsieverts (uSv) and from my understanding, radiation measured at 2 Sv can become fatal without proper care. Fatality can certainly occur at 4 Sv without immediate treatment, and will occur 100% of the time at 8 Sv."

43.

How much radiation do you receive from a single chest x-ray?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "The amount of radiation from a single chest x-ray is minute. An average 40 year old male will be exposed to approximately .01 mSv from a single chest x0ray. To put that into perspective, it would increase his chance of cancer by 0.0006%."

44.

What personality types do you best work with?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I work best with professionals who are focused, dedicated and have a strong level of morale. I understand that in the medical field I will come across a lot of strong personalities, opinions and ego's. I am very prepared for that as well."

45.

Which organs are most affected by radiation?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Radiation impacts the entire body, however; the most damage can be felt but the tissue and organs. I feel that the parts most affected by radiation are the hair, the brain, thyroid, blood system, heart, gastrointestinal tract and the reproductive tract."

46.

Is there a medication available that helps people with radiation exposure?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "There is treatment available for internal contamination. Some treatments may reduce damage to internal organs but we can only use these treatments when a patient has been exposed to certain types of radiation. The three treatment types that I am aware of are Potassium Iodide, Prussian Blue, and Diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA)."

47.

How flexible is your schedule? Do you mind being asked to stay late or cover for a colleague?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My schedule is very flexible and I am more than happy to offer my time to this profession. If a job needed to be done and I was asked to cover for a colleague, the answer would be 'Absolutely.' I realize that long hours, overtime, evenings and holidays are part of what I signed up for when I became a Doctor."

48.

Do you consider yourself a strong decision maker? How do you go about making a difficult decision?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Yes, I do consider myself a strong decision maker. As a Radiologist, I face incredibly challenging choices every day. I am skilled in this aspect and able to think critically, rather than emotionally, when it comes to patient diagnosis and other difficult topics."

49.

What are some of the long term physical effects of radiation exposure?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "There are a few consequences of long term radiation exposure. People who receive high doses of radiation could have a greater risk of developing cancer later in life, depending on the radiation exposure.This can also cause abnormalities and deformities if radiation exposure occurs prenatally."

50.

What are some of the short term effects of radiation exposure?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Short term effects of radiation exposure could be diagnosed as Acute Radiation Syndrome but usually only if the person is exposed to very high levels of radiation. Symptoms of ARS may include nausea, vomiting, headache, and diarrhea."

51.

How would you respond if a fellow doctor criticized your work?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "If a fellow physician criticized my work, I would react in a way that was professional and would give the criticism or feedback some honest thought. I would try to understand the nature of the criticism. Did they criticize my work in order to challenge me professionally, or were they simply being spiteful? I am always open to feedback and love to be challenged."

52.

How do you handle a difficult patient?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I give difficult patients the same care that I give the cooperative ones. As a Radiologist, I work with people who are sick and everyone processes those emotions differently. If they are especially difficult, I will encourage them to take on a more positive attitude by keeping the mood as light as possible and giving them positive things to focus on."

53.

Tell me about your most rewarding experience as a Radiologist.

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have had so many rewarding experiences as a Radiologist but the one that stands out most to me was a 15 year old patient that I had, earlier on in my career. I detected an abnormality around her heart. This teen had a long road to recovery after being diagnosed with a heart abnormality but her attitude was so amazing and inspiring. Her great attitude will stick with me throughout my career."

54.

What is your greatest strength as a Radiologist?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "My greatest strength as a Radiologist is my ability to relate the medical terminology to my patients in a way that they always understand. A patient's diagnosis and treatment plan should always be clear to them. Having this still is very important because as smart as you need to be, you always need to be relatable to others."

55.

Where do you feel you have the most room for improvement in your career? What steps are you taking to improve in that area?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I feel there is always room for improvement as a Radiologist. Currently, my focus is on becoming even more skilled at interpreting cross section x-rays. Even though I am strong in this area, I feel I can always be better. I will study older medical cases and interpret the x-rays, and other scans, for practice."

56.

How have you demonstrated leadership in your career?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have consistently demonstrated leadership in the workplace through acting as a mentor to those who need it. I am always available to answer questions and will take any opportunity to teach when I can."

57.

Are you experienced working with children as patients?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have worked with children as patients for much of my career. My first Radiology role was at a Children's hospital. I find working with adolescent patients to be very rewarding."

58.

Of the following, which are you most versed in interpreting: X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds, or MRIs?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I would say that I am very well versed in all types, however; if I had to choose one I would say that I have the most experience interpreting x-rays. I am very comfortable working with all types of scans though."

59.

Tell me about your residency. What was the most important thing that you learned?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have a lot of great memories and experiences that come from my residency. I learned so much on the medical side but even more important to me, I learned a lot about bedside manner and patient/doctor relationships. All-in-all, my residency at Hospital XYZ was incredibly rewarding."

60.

Tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't know from your CV/Resume.

Rachelle Enns wrote: "Something about me that many do not know is that I was a competitive dancer for many years. I gave it up once I was accepted into medical school. Despite it being unrelated to medicine, it truly did teach me about discipline and dedication."

61.

Walk me through your volunteer experience. How important is it to you that you give back to the community?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I have recently applied to be a volunteer physician with our local women's clinic. I have spent many hours working with our community animal shelter, as well. I believe that volunteer work is incredibly important, especially as someone who is highly trained in the medical field. There are so many options for me to give back and I am happy to do so."

62.

Are you a member of any Radiology Organizations?

Rachelle Enns wrote: "I am not a member of an organization yet. I've found mentorship and guidance from my peers and leadership over the years."

Radiology Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your Radiology interview, here are 62 interview questions and answer examples.

Would those who know you best say that you endure to the end or move on to other things?

List of 62 Radiology Interview Questions & Answers

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