How to Answer: How do you handle difficult family members who disagree with the care that the patient agreed to?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Situational Nursing job interview.
7. How do you handle difficult family members who disagree with the care that the patient agreed to?
How to Answer
Patient families can be challenging, and they do not always agree with the patient's decision. Sometimes they will pull you aside and tell you their opinion. As long as the patient is competent to make their own decisions, the best way to deal with these situations is to tell the family that they really need to talk with the patient. You should not be talking about the patient's condition when they are not present, anyway. Remember your license and advocate for your patient's rights.
Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would acknowledge that I understand they want the best for their family member, but explain that I cannot discuss the patient's care with them and that the patient has the right to make their own decision. I would encourage them to discuss their concerns with the patient directly and perhaps ask for a shared meeting with the doctor so their concerns could be addressed. I would definitely report the interaction to my nursing supervisor."
Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"When a patient is a competent adult who can make their own healthcare decision, I will respectfully direct the patient's family member back to the patient. I will remind the family member that I must respect the patient's privacy. If the patient agrees, I can call the doctor and ask the doctor to come to the patient's room and answer the family member's questions with the patient present."
Written by Kate Buckley on January 10th, 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