Can you describe a situation where you had to handle a difficult patient or family member, and how did you handle it?

Handling Difficult Patients or Family Members: Nursing Interview Question

During a nursing interview, you may be asked to describe a situation where you had to handle a difficult patient or family member. It is important to showcase your ability to handle challenging situations professionally and empathetically. Here is a suggested framework for responding to this question:

Situation:

Start by providing a brief overview of the situation. For example, you could mention a time when you encountered a patient or family member who was upset or agitated.

Action:

Discuss the steps you took to address the situation. This could include active listening, providing reassurance, and involving other members of the healthcare team if necessary.

Outcome:

Share the outcome of your actions. Did the patient or family member's demeanor improve? Were you able to resolve the situation satisfactorily?

By following this framework, you can demonstrate your ability to handle difficult patients or family members with compassion and professionalism during a nursing interview.