Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to ensure the satisfaction of a patient or client.

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to ensure the satisfaction of a patient or client.
Sample answer to the question:
One time, I had a patient who was feeling extremely anxious about an upcoming surgery. I took the initiative to research calming techniques and implemented them during my interactions with the patient. I also ensured that the surgical team was aware of the patient's anxiety and requested additional support during the procedure to help alleviate their fears. The patient appreciated the extra attention and felt more at ease during the process.
Here is a more solid answer:
In one instance, I had a patient who was scheduled for surgery and expressed significant anxiety. Recognizing the importance of addressing their emotional well-being, I conducted research on calming techniques and implemented them during my interactions with the patient. I took the time to explain the surgical process in a clear and reassuring manner, and actively listened to their concerns and questions. Additionally, I collaborated with the surgical team to ensure they were aware of the patient's anxiety and requested additional support during the procedure to help alleviate their fears. This included having a nurse in the operating room solely dedicated to the patient's emotional support. The patient appreciated the extra attention and expressed gratitude for feeling more at ease throughout the entire process.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer expands upon the basic answer by providing more specific details about the candidate's actions and the impact they had on the patient. It showcases the candidate's communication, interpersonal skills, and customer service orientation, as they took the initiative to research and implement calming techniques, actively listened to the patient's concerns, and collaborated with the surgical team to ensure a smooth experience. However, it could further improve by mentioning specific administrative and organizational skills utilized in managing the patient's records and coordinating their care.
An example of a exceptional answer:
I vividly remember a patient who was scheduled for a complex surgical procedure and expressed significant anxiety about the process. Recognizing the importance of addressing their emotional well-being, I went above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction. Firstly, I conducted thorough research on calming techniques and implemented them during my interactions with the patient. I took the time to explain the surgical process in a clear and reassuring manner, using visual aids and simplified language to ensure their understanding. Additionally, I actively listened to their concerns and questions, providing empathetic support and addressing each point with genuine care. To further alleviate their anxiety, I collaborated closely with the surgical team, ensuring they were fully aware of the patient's emotional state. I requested the presence of a dedicated nurse in the operating room, solely focused on providing emotional support throughout the procedure. This nurse coordinated with me to ensure all the patient's needs were met, such as playing soothing music and offering relaxation techniques. I also implemented organizational strategies to manage the patient's records and coordinate their care, efficiently scheduling follow-up appointments and ensuring a seamless transition between departments. The patient's satisfaction was evident as they expressed immense gratitude for the personalized attention and care they received, and they even praised the entire healthcare facility for their commitment to patient well-being.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer provides even more specific details about the candidate's actions and the impact they had on the patient. It showcases the candidate's communication, interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, problem-solving, and organizational skills. The answer demonstrates the candidate's dedication to ensuring the satisfaction of the patient by conducting thorough research, implementing various strategies to address the patient's anxiety, collaborating with the surgical team, and efficiently managing the patient's records and care. The answer highlights the candidate's ability to go above and beyond and the positive outcome it had on the patient's experience. The only area for improvement would be to mention the candidate's leadership and team management skills, which are important aspects of the job description.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences where you went above and beyond to ensure client or patient satisfaction.
  • Think about specific examples where you demonstrated strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Consider instances where you utilized problem-solving and organizational skills to enhance the efficiency of services.
  • Emphasize the importance of customer service orientation and the ability to address individual needs and concerns.
  • Highlight any leadership and team management experiences you have had in a healthcare setting.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Communication
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Customer Service Orientation

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