How to Answer: Tell me about a time you had to communicate bad news to a patient. How did you effectively communicate that news, and what was the outcome?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Registered Nurse job interview.
5. Tell me about a time you had to communicate bad news to a patient. How did you effectively communicate that news, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
As a Registered Nurse, communicating effectively with a patient is vital, and this is no more evident than when delivering bad news to a patient. By asking this question, your interviewer will be looking to see how you handled yourself in a particular instance by showing empathy and composure. Think of a time when you had to do this and talk about an instance that had a great outcome to prove your ability to do this if hired at their organization. To sell your ability to handle delivering bad news to patients, talk about your ability to understand the patient's perspective and be open and available for questions from the patient.
Written by Ryan Brunner on August 27th, 2021
1st 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 was hard not to break down with the family in tears, but I knew they were looking at me for the 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 August 27th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
I have had to let a mother know her baby needed to go to the NICU. It is always a delicate conversation when speaking to a new mom and dad who are tired and emotional. I usually start by saying, "The doctor is with your baby right now. It sounds like they want to take your baby to the NICU to keep a closer eye on him/her. I know that is not what you were expecting, and it can be a bit scary, but our NICU staff will take good care of your baby. I believe the doctor will be in shortly to explain why the baby needs to go to the NICU. Do you have any questions for me?"
I always want to take the time needed with a family for any questions and show compassion for them during such a stressful time.
Written by Angel Christie on December 28th, 2022