Describe a time when you had to make a decision under pressure.

One time when I had to make a decision under pressure was during my clinical rotation in the emergency department. A patient came in with severe chest pain, and it was suspected that he was having a heart attack. I had to quickly assess the situation, gather information about the patient's medical history, and analyze the EKG results. Despite feeling the pressure, I remained calm and made the decision to administer medication to relieve the chest pain and stabilize the patient. I also communicated with the attending physician and collaborated with the rest of the healthcare team to ensure the patient's immediate needs were addressed. The patient responded well to the treatment and was eventually transferred to the cardiac care unit for further monitoring and management.

During my clinical rotation in the emergency department, I encountered a situation where a patient with severe chest pain was rushed in. Given the urgency of the situation and suspecting a possible heart attack, I immediately initiated the necessary actions. I quickly obtained the patient's medical history, assessed their vital signs, and reviewed the results of the EKG. With the information gathered, I accurately diagnosed the patient's condition and made the decision to administer medication to alleviate the chest pain and stabilize the patient. The attending physician was informed, and I collaborated with the rest of the healthcare team to ensure a coordinated approach to the patient's care. The patient responded positively to the intervention, and they were subsequently transferred to the cardiac care unit for further management and monitoring.

This is a solid answer because it provides more specific details about the candidate's experience of making a decision under pressure and demonstrates their clinical and diagnostic skills, ability to work under pressure, ability to make quick decisions, and collaboration and teamwork. However, it could still be improved by highlighting the candidate's communication and time management skills.

In my clinical rotation in the emergency department, I encountered a critical situation when a patient was brought in with severe chest pain. As the initial nurse attending to the patient, I swiftly gathered crucial information about their medical history and performed a focused assessment while also managing my emotions. The EKG results raised concerns of a potential heart attack, prompting me to collaboratively devise a plan with the attending physician. Amidst the pressure, I confidently and effectively communicated my findings and recommendations, ensuring the patient's immediate needs were met. Utilizing my extensive knowledge, I administered medication promptly, relieving the patient's chest pain and stabilizing their condition. The healthcare team commended my ability to make quick decisions while remaining compassionate and composed. As a result, the patient responded positively, and they were expediently transferred to the cardiac care unit for specialized treatment.

This answer is exceptional because it incorporates specific and detailed examples of the candidate's clinical and diagnostic skills, ability to work under pressure, ability to make quick decisions, collaboration and teamwork, communication, and time management. It showcases their ability to assess the situation, effectively communicate with the healthcare team, and provide immediate care to stabilize the patient. The candidate also highlights their ability to manage their emotions and remain compassionate throughout the high-pressure situation.