Have you had to cope with losing a patient during your residency training?

"Yes, during my general surgery residency, I experienced a few losses on my trauma surgery rotations. As a physician, I got into this profession to help people, so it is sad to see them die. But I knew that was part of the job before going to medical school, so I have the mindset that patients will unfortunately not always make it. I cope by knowing I did the best I could for them and talking with my team of physicians and staff. If a particular death bothers me more than others, I talk with my closest colleagues, which always seems to help. I also take care of myself mentally and physically so the grief doesn't take control of my emotions."

In your answer, you need to show that you can separate your emotions from your duties as a physician. If you have experienced the death of a patient under your care during residency training, this is the best time to discuss how you handled yourself personally and professionally. If you haven't dealt with this situation firsthand, point out your ability to deal with any challenging situations involving patient care and explain how it will aid you if you lose a patient.