Registered Assistant Nurse Interview Preparation Guide

Download PDF

People skills are a necessity for medical assistants. When answering this question, be sure to show that you enjoy interacting and working with others and that you also derive great enjoyment from helping others. This will show that you are a team player and that you would be a valuable team member.

Even if you are a fresh graduate, you likely have some experience as an extern. Prepare for this question in advance by thinking of all procedures in which you have assisted. When answering the question, give a detailed but succinct account of your experience and your contribution to the experience.

This is listed as the most difficult interview question by the majority of medical assistants. After all, who wants to list a negative about themselves when trying to get a job? The ideal way to answer this question is to list a negative that is also a positive, especially to the employer. Here are some great sample answers to this tricky question:

It is important to be organized and have a good memory; a nurse performs her duties quickly, on time, and efficiently. Nurses are sensitive and pleasant with others. Their attitude must not be to simply administer technical treatment mechanically, but to make patients feel as comfortable as possible.

Use this as an opportunity to talk about your other strengths, talents and passions. The hiring manager has already seen your resume and degrees and they know your clinical skills, so now is the time to expand on your “soft skills,” explained the American Nurses Association. These would include things such as compassion, dedication, warmth and empathy. By sharing anecdotes about past experiences that highlight these skills, you can deliver a telling representation of everything that you have to offer.

This question gives you the chance to prove that you’re passionate about what you do. Show that you’re motivated by ideals and a desire to help others, rather than things like money. Be specific and talk about past experiences that have motivated and inspired you.

Try to keep any anecdotes relevant to the workplace, rather than discussing personal details. Define the problem in a straightforward way, identify options and explain the solution you went with. Highlight any personal or professional skills that helped you handle the situation effectively.

Usually a question will be asked that wants you to address patient satisfaction.

All together I have 8 years experience as a dental nurse, in my current role I spend a large amount of time on the welfare of patients. Ensuring the are relaxed and prepared for the dentist, talking to patients during the dental treatment and supporting them with techniques to improve cleanliness

It’s important to be truthful but diplomatic when this question comes up. Don’t throw your previous employer under the bus because it makes you seem ungrateful. Some examples include wanting to move to another region, learn new skills or focus on a different clinical area. Talk about the new opportunities that this position will give you, rather than dwelling on negative aspects of your current job.