How to Answer: Have you ever caught a coworker stealing? If so, how did you handle it? If not, what would you do if you saw a colleague stealing?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Situational Nursing job interview.
49. Have you ever caught a coworker stealing? If so, how did you handle it? If not, what would you do if you saw a colleague stealing?
How to Answer
Interviewers ask what you would do if you saw a colleague stealing for a few reasons. First, they want to gauge your sense of ethics and integrity. Nurses are held to high standards of moral and ethical conduct, and it is important to ensure the people working in this field meet these standards. Second, they want to see how you would handle a difficult workplace situation. It can be challenging to confront a colleague about unethical behavior, and interviewers want to know that you would handle the situation appropriately and professionally. Ultimately, it is essential to prioritize patient care and safety and to take action if you witness any behavior that could compromise these priorities.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 29th, 2023
1st Answer Example
"No, I have never caught a coworker stealing. However, if I witnessed such behavior, I would first approach my colleague privately and confront them about what I had seen. I would explain that stealing is unethical and illegal and that their actions could have serious consequences for both themselves and our workplace. Depending on their response and the hospital's policies, I would escalate the issue to our supervisor or HR department if necessary. As healthcare professionals, we are responsible for acting with integrity and honesty and holding our colleagues accountable when they fall short of these standards."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 29th, 2023
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, unfortunately, I have witnessed a coworker stealing. When doing my rounds, I walked into a patient's room and saw a nurse's aide quickly put something from the patient's bedside table into their pocket. After checking on my patient, I asked the aide to speak privately with me outside the room. I asked what they put into their pocket, and they said they had not taken anything. I asked to look in their pocket, and they refused. Since I was sure the aide had taken something from the patient, I reported what I saw to the charge nurse. After an investigation, it was discovered the aide had a problem with prescription pills and had taken the patient's medications. Those who work with me understand my values and that I do not condone stealing of any kind."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 29th, 2023
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!
Learn more about Krista Wenz