Tell me about a time when you had to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. What was your role and how did you contribute?

JUNIOR LEVEL
Tell me about a time when you had to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team. What was your role and how did you contribute?
Sample answer to the question:
During my time working in a busy hospital, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in the operating room. As an Operating Room Nurse, my role was to assist the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgical technologists during surgical procedures. I contributed by ensuring that the operating room was properly set up with the necessary equipment and supplies. I also maintained strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control policies to minimize the risk of infection. Throughout the procedure, I monitored the patient's vital signs and condition, providing updates to the team as necessary. Afterward, I worked alongside other nursing staff to deliver postoperative care and instructions to the patient and their family. I also maintained accurate and detailed patient records to ensure continuity of care.
Here is a more solid answer:
During my time working in a busy hospital, I had the opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in the operating room. As an Operating Room Nurse, my role was to assist the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and surgical technologists during surgical procedures. I contributed by ensuring that the operating room was properly set up with the necessary equipment and supplies, paying close attention to detail and organizational skills to ensure everything was in order. I also maintained strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control policies, mitigating the risk of infection for both the patient and the team. Throughout the procedure, I closely monitored the patient's vital signs and condition, promptly communicating any changes to the team. After the surgery, I collaborated with other nursing staff to ensure the patient received appropriate postoperative care and instructions. I also meticulously documented all interventions and observations in the patient's records, ensuring accurate and detailed information for future reference.
Why is this a more solid answer?
The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing specific details about the candidate's attention to detail and organizational skills. It also emphasizes their ability to maintain strict adherence to sterile techniques and infection control policies. However, it can still be improved by highlighting more examples of collaboration with the multidisciplinary team and providing concrete outcomes of the candidate's contributions.
An example of a exceptional answer:
During my time working in a busy hospital, I had several opportunities to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team in the operating room. One particular instance stands out in my mind. We were performing a complex cardiac surgery, and the team consisted of the surgeon, cardiac anesthesiologist, scrub nurse, perfusionist, and myself as the Operating Room Nurse. My role was crucial in ensuring the smooth flow of the procedure. I meticulously prepared the operating room, double-checking that all necessary equipment and supplies were readily available. Additionally, I coordinated with the team to review the surgical plan and discuss any concerns or special requirements. Throughout the surgery, I closely monitored the patient's vital signs, continually communicating with the team to provide real-time updates. At one point, we encountered a sudden drop in blood pressure, alerting the surgeon and anesthesiologist immediately, allowing them to take swift action and stabilize the patient. After the surgery, I collaborated with other nursing staff to provide comprehensive postoperative care and instructions to the patient and their family. My attention to detail and organizational skills played a vital role in ensuring the procedure's success, as well as the patient's overall well-being.
Why is this an exceptional answer?
The exceptional answer provides a specific and memorable example of collaboration with a multidisciplinary team in the operating room. It highlights the candidate's ability to prepare the operating room and coordinate with the team, as well as their attention to detail in monitoring the patient's vital signs. The example of identifying and promptly notifying the team about a critical situation demonstrates the candidate's strong observational skills and their ability to contribute to positive patient outcomes. Additionally, the answer emphasizes the candidate's commitment to comprehensive postoperative care and instructions, showcasing their dedication to the patient's overall well-being.
How to prepare for this question:
  • Reflect on past experiences working in multidisciplinary teams, particularly in the operating room or healthcare setting. Consider specific instances where your role contributed to the team's success.
  • Highlight your attention to detail and organizational skills, as they are essential for an Operating Room Nurse. Be prepared to provide examples of how you have demonstrated these skills in previous roles.
  • Think about challenges or high-pressure situations you encountered while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team and how you effectively managed them. Discuss any specific outcomes or lessons learned.
  • Consider the importance of effective communication and interpersonal skills when working in a multidisciplinary team. Think about how you have effectively communicated with team members in the past and how it positively impacted patient care.
What are interviewers evaluating with this question?
  • Collaboration skills
  • Role and contribution
  • Attention to detail and organizational skills

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