If you were scheduled to assist with a surgery, but had reason to believe that the surgeon was impaired and may be unsafe to perform surgery, what would you do?

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Unfortunately, scenarios like this do happen in real life. The interviewer is not trying to trick you into being the bad guy, but rather wants to know that you are able to prioritize your patient's health over the feelings of a surgeon who is possibly impaired.

"If I thought that a surgeon was impaired, I would ask if he is feeling well or if he is ok. If after talking to him I still felt like there was some reason that the surgeon may not be able to safely perform a procedure, I would immediately tell my supervisor. Overlooking something so as not to offend a co-worker, even someone with a higher rank than I, is something that I can be held accountable for, as well."

"Patient safety should always be the first thought for any of us providing care. If I were to suspect that a surgeon is impaired in any way, I would immediately notify my supervisor with my concern. Even if it is found that the surgeon is well and can perform the surgery, it is always better to err on the side of caution when patient care is a factor. We all are responsible for protecting a patient's safety."

"While I realize many staff members are apprehensive when it comes to reporting what may seem like an uncertain situation, such as a surgeon's possible impairment, patient safety is the responsibility of everyone on the care team. If I suspected a surgeon to be impaired, no matter the reason, I would notify a supervisor immediately. Situations like this, if overlooked, can put a patient's life in jeopardy, depending on the procedure to be performed. Also, allowing someone to perform any surgery on someone when that person is impaired is grounds for serious legal consequences."

Anonymous Answer

"I would inform my supervisor of my concern right away. The safety of the patient comes first."

Rachelle's Feedback

It's great that you have the confidence to do what is right, even if it meant going to the supervisor to discuss a colleagues' behavior. Good answer.

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Anonymous Answer

"I would ask the surgeon whether he or she is feeling okay. If he or she doesn't behave correctly or I don't feel safe, I would inform the senior person in the theatre know of my concerns. I would apologize to the surgeon, but I would ask him or her to stop."

Marcie's Feedback

Good thoughts! Verbally checking on the surgeon is definitely a good starting point and going to a senior person if you still feel things aren't right is a great next step. It's most important that you emphasize to the interviewer that no matter what you'll make sure the patient is safe because this shows you have integrity and compassion.