– The following position is advertised on a career Web site: RN I Surgical Job Travel Involved: None. Job Type: Full-Time. Job Level: Minimum Education Required: Associate Degree Skills: Category: Nursing FTE: 0.9. Position Summary: Description/Purpose of Position: Responsible for providing patient care based upon the nursing process; being effectively involved with maintaining the standard of care for assigned patients through assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Oversees and guides employees who are under your supervision. Requirements Description/Purpose of Position: Responsible for providing patient care based upon the nursing process; being effectively involved with maintaining the standard of care for assigned patients through assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Oversees and guides employees that are under your supervision. Minimum Qualifications: Education: Graduate of an accredited school of Nursing. License/Certification: Current RN license in the state of XXX. Current BCLS Certification. Other: Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care/service appropriate to the age of the patients served on the assigned unit/department. Note: An RN graduate is a nurse who has completed a course of study at a school of nursing and is eligible for the NCLEX. The RN graduate performs directly under the supervision of the charge nurse or RN designee. 1. List three substantive questions you might expect to be asked in an interview for the job, and summarize your answers. 2. Describe three to five ways in which you could prepare for the interview to make the most positive impression. 3. Be sure to describe what you would wear and what material you would bring with you. Your best friend, Lindsey, and you are working together in the surgical ICU. Often you cover for her when she goes to lunch or on breaks. You notice that often her clients complain of being in pain, even though she has told you that she medicated them right before she left the unit. You also notice that she appears to be very jumpy and short-tempered and a bit disheveled when she comes to work. You are suspicious that she is using the medications that she says she is giving to her clients. 1. What should you do first? 2. What might be the consequences if you decide to do nothing?

1. In an interview for the RN I Surgical position, three substantive questions that may be expected are:

a) How do you apply the nursing process to provide patient care?
My answer: The nursing process involves systematically assessing the patient’s condition, identifying nursing diagnoses, planning interventions, implementing those interventions, and evaluating their effectiveness. I would utilize this process to ensure that each patient receives appropriate and individualized care.

b) How do you effectively oversee and guide employees under your supervision?
My answer: As a nurse in a leadership role, I would use effective communication and delegation skills to ensure that employees understand their responsibilities and are supported in their work. I would provide guidance and mentorship to help them develop their skills and enhance patient care outcomes.

c) How do you ensure that you maintain the standard of care for your assigned patients?
My answer: I would stay up-to-date with current evidence-based practices and guidelines in nursing. I would continuously assess and evaluate the care provided, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes to maintain the highest standard of care.

2. To make a positive impression during the interview, there are several ways in which I could prepare:

a) Research the organization: Familiarize myself with the hospital or healthcare facility, its mission, values, and any recent achievements or initiatives. This knowledge will demonstrate my interest in the organization and my commitment to its goals.

b) Review job requirements and responsibilities: Study the job description to understand the specific skills and qualifications required for the position. This will enable me to provide relevant examples in my responses and highlight how my experience aligns with the role.

c) Prepare answers to common interview questions: Anticipating questions related to patient care, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving will allow me to provide thoughtful and well-structured responses during the interview. Practice these answers to ensure clarity and confidence in my delivery.

d) Highlight relevant experience: Identify specific instances in my nursing career where I have demonstrated the necessary skills for this role. This could include examples of successful patient outcomes, effective communication with colleagues and patients, and situations where I have taken on leadership responsibilities.

e) Develop questions to ask the interviewer: Prepare thoughtful questions about the unit or department, the organization’s support for professional development, or any recent changes or initiatives relevant to the position. This will demonstrate my interest in the role and my desire to contribute to the organization.

3. For the interview, it is important to present a professional image and bring appropriate materials. I would wear professional attire, such as a business suit or dress, to convey seriousness and professionalism. This would include well-groomed appearance, minimal jewelry, and conservative clothing choices.

As for materials, I would bring multiple copies of my resume, references, and any relevant certifications or licenses. These documents would support my qualifications and provide the interviewer with additional information about my experience and credentials. Additionally, I may bring a notepad and pen to jot down any important points or questions during the interview.