Tell me about a time when you had to use problem-solving skills to address a complex issue in geriatric nursing.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

During my time as a geriatric nurse, I encountered a complex issue when an elderly patient developed a persistent skin infection. Despite multiple treatments, the infection did not improve. To address this, I conducted a thorough assessment of the patient's medical history, medications, and daily routines. After consulting with the interdisciplinary team, we discovered that a particular medication the patient was taking interacted negatively with their immune system, inhibiting the healing process. Taking into account the patient's overall health and potential side effects, we collaborated to find a suitable alternative medication. By closely monitoring the patient's progress and adjustments to their care plan, we observed significant improvement in the skin infection, ultimately leading to complete resolution within a few weeks.

Here is a more solid answer:

During my tenure as a geriatric nurse, I encountered a complex issue when treating an elderly patient with chronic pain. The patient had been on a combination of medications for years, but their pain was persisting. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive assessment, I conducted a thorough geriatric assessment to identify potential contributing factors. Through careful examination and collaboration with the patient's primary care physician and the interdisciplinary team, we discovered that the patient had developed opioid tolerance. To address this, I implemented a multifaceted approach that involved tapering the opioid dosage while incorporating alternative pain management strategies such as physical therapy, mindfulness techniques, and non-opioid analgesics. This required close coordination with the patient, their family, and the healthcare team to ensure a smooth transition. By regularly monitoring the patient's pain levels, adherence to the new regimen, and overall well-being, we successfully managed their pain while reducing dependence on opioids.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer provides a more comprehensive response, highlighting the candidate's skills in geriatric assessments, medication knowledge, and organizational skills. It also demonstrates their ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and implement a comprehensive care plan tailored to the patient's needs. However, the candidate could further improve the answer by elaborating on their communication and interpersonal skills.

An example of a exceptional answer:

As a geriatric nurse, I faced a complex issue when caring for an elderly patient with cognitive decline. The patient was experiencing frequent agitation and aggressive behaviors that posed a challenge to their safety and the well-being of others. To address this issue, I utilized my problem-solving skills and employed a person-centered care approach. Firstly, I conducted a detailed assessment to identify triggers and patterns in the patient's behavior. I collaborated with the patient's family, caregivers, and the interdisciplinary team to develop an individualized care plan that included environmental modifications, structured activities, and non-pharmacological interventions such as music therapy and validation techniques. Additionally, I ensured consistency in staff assignments and provided education to enhance the team's understanding of behavioral management strategies. Through ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the care plan, we observed a significant reduction in agitation episodes and improved quality of life for the patient. This experience highlighted the importance of empathy, communication, adaptability, and continuous education in geriatric nursing.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in addressing the complex issue, demonstrating the candidate's expertise in geriatric nursing. It showcases their problem-solving skills, ability to employ a person-centered care approach, and collaboration with the interdisciplinary team. The answer also emphasizes the candidate's skills in communication, adaptability, and continuous education. However, to further enhance the answer, the candidate could include specific examples of non-pharmacological interventions and elaborate on how their actions aligned with legal and ethical considerations in geriatric nursing.

How to prepare for this question:

Familiarize yourself with common complex issues in geriatric nursing, such as chronic pain management, behavioral disturbances, and medication interactions.

Review your experience in geriatric assessments, ensuring you can speak confidently about conducting comprehensive assessments and identifying potential contributing factors.

Refresh your knowledge of geriatric pharmacology, particularly the effects of medications on the elderly population, common side effects, and potential drug interactions.

Highlight instances where you collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to address complex issues and implemented care plans tailored to the unique challenges faced by elderly patients.