"I'm a firm believer in using humor to sustain a team in trying times. I would make room for a smile and a laugh with a patient to brighten their day, but this must always be done with tact and good judgment. I also feel that humor should be encouraged among the team in any medical practice to get through stressful times. If I were fortunate enough to join your institution, I would look forward to building great relationships that would last the rest of my career."

If humor is used in the workplace, it should be mild and universal. It's a good policy to be kind, tolerant, professional, and compassionate with your patients. Laugh at a child's joke, if appropriate, and acknowledge a patient's attempt to be cheerful, but follow rather than lead. Some people poke fun at themselves, but sometimes it's a self-esteem issue, so it's best to avoid playing along.