Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision in your nursing practice. How did you approach it?

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

Sample answer to the question:

One difficult decision I had to make in my nursing practice was when I had to prioritize patients during a busy shift in the emergency department. I approached it by assessing the urgency and severity of each patient's condition, and used my critical thinking skills to make informed decisions. I ensured that patients with life-threatening emergencies received immediate attention, while others were triaged and attended to based on their priority level. Although it was challenging to balance the needs of multiple patients, I remained focused and organized to provide the best care possible.

Here is a more solid answer:

One challenging decision I encountered in my nursing practice was when I had to make a difficult choice regarding a patient's treatment plan. The patient had a complex medical history and was at high risk for adverse reactions to certain medications. To approach this decision, I thoroughly reviewed the patient's medical records, consulted with the healthcare team and the patient's family, and conducted extensive research on the potential risks and benefits of different treatment options. Ultimately, I made a well-informed decision to adjust the patient's medication regimen, taking into account their individual needs and minimizing potential harm. This experience emphasized my critical thinking skills, ability to gather and analyze information, and collaborate effectively with others in order to make the best possible decision for the patient's well-being.

Why is this a more solid answer?

The solid answer provides a more detailed description of the difficult decision the candidate faced and how they approached it. It includes specific actions taken, such as reviewing medical records, consulting with the healthcare team, and conducting research. It also highlights the candidate's critical thinking skills, ability to gather and analyze information, and collaborate effectively. However, it could still be improved by including more specific examples of the candidate's organizational skills.

An example of a exceptional answer:

A significant challenging decision I encountered in my nursing practice was when I had to make a critical choice regarding the allocation of limited resources during a public health crisis. We had an overwhelming influx of patients and a shortage of medical supplies. To approach this decision, I worked closely with a multidisciplinary team to develop a resource allocation plan based on evidence-based guidelines and ethical considerations. We prioritized patients based on their expected outcomes, and implemented measures to optimize the use of available resources, such as implementing infection control protocols and utilizing alternative treatment options. This experience showcased my ability to think critically under pressure, make difficult decisions in complex situations, and effectively collaborate with a team to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Why is this an exceptional answer?

The exceptional answer provides a comprehensive description of a difficult decision the candidate faced in their nursing practice. It includes specific details, such as a public health crisis and shortage of resources, which demonstrate the candidate's ability to handle high-pressure situations. The answer also highlights the candidate's skills in developing a resource allocation plan, prioritizing patients, and implementing measures to optimize resource utilization. It emphasizes the candidate's critical thinking skills, ability to make difficult decisions, and effective collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The answer could be improved by providing more specific examples of how the candidate demonstrated leadership and organizational abilities.

How to prepare for this question:

Reflect on past experiences where you had to make difficult decisions in your nursing practice. Think about the specific dilemmas you faced and how you approached them.

Consider the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description, such as critical thinking, decision making, and organizational skills. Prepare examples that highlight these skills.

Research common challenges in public and community health nursing and think about how you would approach them. Familiarize yourself with evidence-based guidelines and ethical considerations in resource allocation.

Practice articulating your thought process and rationale behind your decision-making. Prepare concise and clear explanations to showcase your abilities in a structured manner.

Seek feedback from colleagues or supervisors on your decision-making skills. Ask for specific examples or scenarios where you demonstrated strengths in critical thinking, decision making, and organizational skills.

What are interviewers evaluating with this question?