Describe a challenging patient case you have handled and how you approached it
Theme: Problem Solving Role: Physical Therapist Function: Medical
Interview Question for Physical Therapist: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Physical Therapist: Help patients recover from injuries and improve mobility This role falls within the Medical function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Problem Solving with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Patient Background: Provide a brief overview of the patient's condition, age, and any relevant medical history
- Challenges Faced: Explain the specific difficulties encountered while treating the patient
- Approach Taken: Describe the strategies and techniques used to address the challenges
- Collaboration & Communication: Highlight the importance of working with other healthcare professionals and communicating effectively
- Outcome & Progress: Discuss the patient's progress and any improvements observed
- Lessons Learned: Reflect on the experience and identify key takeaways or lessons learned
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Problem-solving skills: Assessing and addressing complex patient cases
- Communication skills: Explaining treatment plans and gaining patient cooperation
- Adaptability: Modifying treatment approaches based on patient needs
- Critical thinking: Analyzing patient symptoms and developing effective treatment strategies
- Empathy & patient care: Building rapport and providing emotional support
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of empathy: Avoid showing a lack of empathy towards the patient's condition or challenges they faced
- Blaming the patient: Avoid blaming the patient for their condition or any difficulties encountered during treatment
- Inadequate communication: Avoid mentioning any instances of poor communication with the patient or their family members
- Lack of teamwork: Avoid highlighting any conflicts or lack of collaboration with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care
- Ineffective treatment plan: Avoid discussing any instances where the treatment plan failed to yield desired results