Questions and Answers
Tell me about a specific time when you made a suggestion to improve the quality of the work done in your unit.
Adding certain categories to the safety report between shifts.
Give examples to illustrate how you have generated ideas that represent thinking 'outside the box.' How were your ideas received by others? What became of the ideas?
Using IV caps and tape to assist visually impaired patients utilizing call bells when no other resources were available.
Give a specific example of a time when you had to deal with an angry customer. What was the problem and what was the outcome? What was your role in diffusing the situation?
I dealt with a patient who was resistant to care for colorectal cancer. By empathizing with his situation and communicating options clearly, he became more receptive.
Tell about a situation at work where you realized a person needed help. How did you realize the person needed assistance and what did you do? What was the outcome of this situation?
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Tell about a situation where you assisted a co-worker. What was the situation? What was your involvement and what was the outcome?
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Tell me about a specific time when you resolved a difficult customer complaint. What did you do? What was the outcome?
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Tell me about the last new procedure you had to learn in your job. Tell me what specifically was the hardest aspect of learning the new procedure. Tell me specifically what you liked best about learning the new procedure. How well is the new procedure working now?
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Describe an instance when you had to think on your feet to extricate yourself from a difficult situation. What caused the situation? How did your solution work?
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Describe a situation where you felt you had not communicated well. How did you correct the situation?
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Give a specific example of a time you had to deal with an upset co-worker, patient, or other customer. What was the person upset about and how did you handle it? What was the outcome?
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How do you go about explaining a complex technical problem to a person who does not understand the technical jargon? What approach do you take in communicating with people who do not know the technical jargon?
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Describe a time when you took personal accountability for a conflict and initiated contact with the individual(s) involved to explain your actions. What steps did you take? What was the result?
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Describe a time when you've had to work with strong-willed peers. What did you do? How did you handle them so you could influence their decisions?
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Tell me about a specific time when those with whom you were working could not agree upon the course of action. How did you approach the situation and what was the outcome?
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It can be difficult to build good relationships at work but sometimes it doesn't always work. If you can, tell about a time when you were not able to build a successful relationship with a difficult person. How did you handle the situation? How did you accomplish the work?
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What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example. What have you learned from dealing with conflict?
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Give two examples of things you've done in previous jobs that demonstrate your willingness to work hard.
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Name three things you have done in the past two years to grow in your job.
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Tell us how you keep your job knowledge current with ongoing changes.
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Describe a time when you went over and above your job expectation. What motivated you to put forth the extra effort? How did you feel when the job was finished? Did others realize you had put forth the extra effort?
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Give me an example of a time when you used good judgment and decision-making in solving a problem.
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Compare what you know about the job you are interviewing for and your own knowledge and skill. What areas of development do you feel you will need to meet the job expectations?
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Why the VA?
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What is your strength?
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What is your weakness?
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What are your professional goals?
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Tell us about yourself.
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Study Notes
General Interview Concepts
- Use specific examples to illustrate past experiences and problem-solving strategies during interviews.
- Emphasize personal accountability and initiative in resolving conflicts.
- Highlight the ability to empathize with patients and work collaboratively with colleagues.
Communication Skills
- Explain complex problems with simple language to ensure understanding by non-technical individuals.
- Address communication breakdowns promptly to restore clarity and trust.
Conflict Resolution
- Approach conflicts with a mentality of mediation and support, facilitating discussions between involved parties.
- Maintain professionalism and openness to constructively resolve workplace disputes.
Teamwork and Leadership
- Demonstrate reliability and willingness to assist team members in challenging situations.
- Manage resources effectively, especially in high-stress scenarios, by coordinating with colleagues.
Patient Care and Empathy
- Recognize and address the emotional and psychological needs of patients to foster trust and improve compliance with care.
- Anticipate and respond effectively to patients' emotional states to enhance their hospital experience.
Professional Development
- Continuous education through certifications and residency programs to stay updated with best practices.
- Engage with resources such as instructor-led sessions and professional literature to deepen knowledge.
Job Knowledge and Adaptation
- Acknowledge personal gaps in knowledge, especially concerning outpatient processes, and express willingness to learn.
- Adapt to new methodologies and changes in the healthcare environment actively and positively.
Work Ethic and Motivation
- Exhibit a strong work ethic through small, meaningful actions that positively impact patient care.
- Show dedication to the mission of serving veterans within the VA system, prioritizing their unique needs and challenges.
Personal Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strength identified as reliability and teamwork contribution.
- Acknowledged weakness in delegation, actively working to improve this skill for better team dynamics.
Future Goals
- Aim to broaden nursing skills focusing on public health and preventative care, reflecting on experiences in acute care.
- Emphasize the importance of transitioning from diagnostic care to educational outreach to prevent health issues.
Background Summary
- Experienced RN for two years at Bridgeport Hospital, specializing in oncology and chemotherapy, with a passion for patient advocacy and support.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Prepare for your upcoming VA interview with this collection of flashcards focused on key behavioral questions. Each card encourages you to reflect on your past experiences, particularly in improving work quality and demonstrating innovative thinking. Use these prompts to articulate your ideas effectively during the interview.
