Practice 30 Surgical Technologist interview questions covering sterile technique, instrumentation, and OR protocols.
Question 24 of 30
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Example Answer
Community Answers

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
The interviewer asks about your experience handling an emergency situation in the operating room and the outcome because emergencies can and do happen in the OR. As a surgical technologist, you will be an essential member of the surgical team and may be responsible for assisting in emergencies. The interviewer wants to know if you have the skills and knowledge to handle these situations calmly and effectively. Additionally, they want to see how you have handled past emergencies to understand your problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. The outcome of the situation can also provide insight into your ability to work in a high-pressure environment and your commitment to patient safety.
"Sure, I would be happy to give an example. Recently, I had to handle an emergency situation in the operating room when a patient experienced a sudden cardiac arrest during surgery. I immediately notified the surgeon and called for additional assistance. We quickly moved the patient to a supine position and began administering CPR while the surgeon continued the procedure. I also retrieved the defibrillator and other necessary equipment to assist with the resuscitation efforts.
The patient was successfully resuscitated and stabilized. The surgical team completed the procedure without any further complications, and the patient went on to make a full recovery. I believe my training, experience, ability to remain calm under pressure, and working with an exceptional team were instrumental in achieving this positive outcome."

Interview Coach
Jaymie
A real coach, not AI. I read every answer myself and write back with personalized feedback.
Typically responds within 24 hours.
0 - Character Count
Master scenario-based questions that assess your sterile field judgment and instrument knowledge.
Get StartedJump to Question

Written by Krista Wenz
30 Questions & Answers • Surgical Technologist

By Krista

By Krista