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?

"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."

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.