Emergency Room Nurse Interview Questions

Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision under pressure. How did you handle it?

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

One time when I had to make a quick decision under pressure was during a busy night shift in the emergency department. A patient came in with severe respiratory distress and was struggling to breathe. It was clear that immediate intervention was needed. I quickly assessed the situation, gathered the necessary equipment, and initiated oxygen therapy to stabilize the patient's breathing. I then called for additional support from the respiratory therapist and the attending physician. Throughout the process, I remained calm and focused on providing the best possible care for the patient.

Here is a more solid answer:

One memorable experience of making a quick decision under pressure was when I was working in the emergency department and a patient was brought in with a severe allergic reaction. The patient was experiencing difficulty breathing and showed signs of anaphylaxis. I immediately recognized the urgency of the situation and quickly assessed the patient's vital signs and medical history. Based on my assessment, I initiated the administration of epinephrine, a life-saving medication for anaphylaxis. I coordinated with the medical team to ensure the patient received the necessary treatment and support. Despite the intense situation, I remained calm and focused, effectively communicating with the patient and their family to provide reassurance and alleviate their anxiety. My actions resulted in the patient's condition stabilizing, and they were successfully transferred to the intensive care unit for further monitoring and treatment.

Why is this a more solid answer?

This answer is solid because it provides a more detailed and comprehensive example of a quick decision made under pressure. The candidate demonstrates their ability to assess the situation, make a critical decision, coordinate with the medical team, and maintain effective communication with the patient and their family. However, the answer could be further improved by including specific details about the candidate's thought process and the impact of their decision.

An example of a exceptional answer:

In my previous role as an emergency room nurse, I encountered a situation where a patient was brought in with multiple traumas following a severe car accident. The patient was in critical condition, displaying signs of internal bleeding and a compromised airway. Recognizing the need for immediate intervention, I quickly coordinated with the trauma team, providing them with a comprehensive report of the patient's condition. Together, we made the decision to proceed with rapid sequence intubation to secure the patient's airway and initiate fluid resuscitation to stabilize their blood pressure. While the team mobilized, I ensured the availability of necessary equipment and medications, double-checking their expiration dates and proper dosages. Throughout the process, I maintained a calm and composed demeanor, providing clear and concise updates to the team, patient, and their family to alleviate their anxiety and instill confidence in our abilities. As a result of our prompt actions, the patient's condition improved, enabling them to undergo surgery and ultimately recover from their injuries.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

This answer is exceptional because it provides a highly detailed and comprehensive example of a quick decision made under extreme pressure. The candidate demonstrates their ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, effectively communicate critical information, and meticulously prepare for the intervention. The answer also highlights the candidate's calm and composed demeanor in a high-stress situation, as well as the positive outcome achieved through their prompt actions.

How to prepare for this question:

Reflect on your past experiences in high-pressure situations and identify specific incidents where quick decision-making was necessary. Consider selecting examples that showcase your ability to remain calm and composed while under pressure.

Practice articulating your decision-making process and the steps you took to handle the situation effectively. Emphasize the importance of collaboration and clear communication in such scenarios.

Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols and procedures to ensure you have a solid foundation of knowledge to draw upon when answering questions about quick decision-making in emergency situations.

Consider seeking additional training or certifications in relevant areas such as ACLS or PALS to further demonstrate your commitment to excellence in emergency nursing.

Take the opportunity to learn from experienced emergency room nurses or participate in simulation exercises to enhance your skills in making quick decisions under pressure.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?