How to Answer: Give an example of how you may connect and find common ground with a patient to gain understanding.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Situational Nursing job interview.
6. Give an example of how you may connect and find common ground with a patient to gain understanding.
How to Answer
All patients are different and come from different backgrounds and life experiences. Sometimes, the patient will have biases and reject you as a competent individual. Learning how to connect and find common ground with a patient quickly can improve patient outcomes. There is always something that you can find in common with someone. It could be the weather, good or bad, a comment on a crossword they are completing, admiration for their turquoise necklace, anything that is authentic and sincere to start to build a bridge or connection. It doesn't have to be a colossal sharing of souls, but just looking quickly for similarities instead of differences can have real impact. Take the time to learn conversational techniques that can elicit conversation and build rapport.
Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I try to establish conversational rapport with each patient and humanize our interaction a little bit. I want to be seen as a professional and competent nurse, but also as a warm and caring human being. I don't think idle chitchat is helpful overall, but I do believe an authentic comment about a picture of their dog or maybe a sweater they are wearing can leapfrog into more personalized conversations. I think that it makes people feel seen by the nurse and that helps."
Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"There are so many ways to connect with a patient during my shift. I think it always starts with identifying myself and my role. It sounds simple, but I always say a variation of 'Good morning, I'm Kate and I'll be your nurse until 7 p.m. today' when I first meet a patient. Over the years, many patients have told me that they feel frustrated or confused when people enter their rooms and just start talking without identifying themselves. Identifying myself to the patient in a friendly way helps to establish trust right away. After that, I may ask them about any drawings done by kids that I see in their room, the sports team they're watching on TV, the sodoku puzzle they're working on, or whatever type of Indiana weather we may be having. Talking about everyday things can help us develop a rapport that will be useful as we need to talk about medications and other aspects of treatment later."
Written by Kate Buckley on January 10th, 2023
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About the Author
I began my career in emergency medical services (EMS) over 30 years ago, working as a Firefighter-Paramedic, EMS Captain, Mental Health Technician, ER Technician, EMT and Paramedic Adjunct Instructor, and EMS Educator. During my career, I had the privilege of serving on over one thousand interview panels to help various organizations choose the right candidate for the job.
I have created curricula and training materials to prepare candidates for interviews and held mock interview courses for all types of healthcare professionals. My interview experience includes hiring emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, nurses, medical assistants, home health aides, and physician assistants.
As a coach and contributor for MockQuestions, I am excited to help you navigate your upcoming nursing interview. While these situational questions assess your critical thinking and communication skills, interviewers also ask these questions to gain insight into your personality to determine if you will be a good fit with the company culture. Remember to be relaxed and be your authentic self. Best of luck in nailing your interview!
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