How do you keep your emotions from affecting your work in the operating room?

"It is hard not to feel emotional when losing a patient or having to deliver bad news to the family of a patient, but I knew it was part of the job going into my residency training and will continue to be as a fellow with your program. I keep my emotions from affecting my work by talking with my colleagues or attending physician if something is bothering me and taking care of myself away from work. I like to run, which helps clear my mind when feeling emotional. In the OR, I have one goal in mind, and that is a successful procedure. While curveballs being thrown are more the norm than the abnormality, I have an uncanny ability to stay focused in the face of any situation."

Talk openly about your ability to keep your emotions separate from your work as a surgeon and explain why doing so is important. While everyone's tools and tactics may vary, you want to show that you can stay focused on the task at hand no matter what situation you find yourself in. Another great thing to discuss is your ability to maintain your mental, physical, and emotional health outside the hospital walls in your free time.