Example response for question delving into Interpersonal Skills with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

•  Difficult Patient Encounter: I encountered a difficult patient who was resistant to therapy and often displayed aggressive behavior
•  Assessment of the Situation: I assessed the patient's medical history, current condition, and any potential triggers for their behavior
•  Establishing Rapport: I focused on building trust and rapport with the patient by actively listening, showing empathy, and acknowledging their concerns
•  Collaborative Goal Setting: I involved the patient in setting realistic therapy goals, ensuring their input and preferences were considered
•  Individualized Treatment Plan: I developed a personalized treatment plan that incorporated the patient's interests and addressed their specific needs and challenges
•  Clear Communication: I maintained open and transparent communication with the patient, explaining the purpose and benefits of each therapy session
•  Managing Aggressive Behavior: I implemented strategies to de-escalate aggressive behavior, such as providing a calm environment, using distraction techniques, and teaching coping skills
•  Monitoring Progress: I regularly assessed the patient's progress, adjusting the treatment plan as needed and celebrating small achievements to motivate the patient
•  Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Team: I collaborated with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists and nurses, to ensure a holistic approach to the patient's care
•  Documentation & Reporting: I maintained accurate and detailed documentation of the patient's progress, behavior, and any modifications made to the treatment plan
•  Continuous Professional Development: I actively sought opportunities for professional development to enhance my skills in managing difficult patients and staying updated with the latest therapeutic techniques

  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

•  Conflict resolution skills: Assessing how you handle challenging patient interactions and your ability to defuse difficult situations
•  Communication skills: Evaluating your ability to effectively communicate with patients and address their concerns
•  Problem-solving abilities: Assessing your approach to finding solutions and adapting treatment plans for difficult patients
•  Empathy & patience: Evaluating your ability to remain calm, empathetic, and patient when dealing with challenging patients

  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

•  Blaming the patient: Avoid blaming or criticizing the patient for their behavior or attitude
•  Lack of empathy: Avoid showing a lack of understanding or empathy towards the patient's difficulties
•  Inability to manage emotions: Avoid displaying an inability to remain calm and composed when dealing with difficult patients
•  Lack of problem-solving skills: Avoid not providing a clear and effective strategy for managing the situation
•  Poor communication: Avoid demonstrating ineffective communication skills or not actively listening to the patient's concerns
•  Lack of teamwork: Avoid not involving other healthcare professionals or failing to seek support when necessary

 Related

  Other questions asked for the Occupational Therapist in Medical function. View details for the Occupational Therapist here

• Tell me about a time when you had to advocate for a patient's needs or rights.
• What strategies do you use to assess a patient's needs and develop a treatment plan?
• How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in occupational therapy?
• Describe a challenging case you have worked on and how you approached it.
• Tell me about your experience working with patients in a medical setting.
• What is your approach to educating patients and their families about their treatment plans?
• How do you prioritize your caseload and manage your time effectively?
• Describe a situation where you had to adapt your treatment approach to meet a patient's changing needs.
• What documentation and record-keeping practices do you follow to ensure accurate and thorough patient records?
• How do you handle ethical dilemmas or conflicts of interest in your practice?
• What steps do you take to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for your patients?
• Tell me about a time when you had to work with limited resources or budget constraints.
• How do you approach discharge planning and ensuring a smooth transition for patients?
• How do you handle feedback or criticism from colleagues or supervisors?
• Describe a time when you had to handle a cultural or language barrier with a patient. How did you overcome it?
• What techniques do you use to motivate and engage patients in their therapy sessions?
• Describe a time when you had to handle a high-stress situation. How did you stay calm and focused?
• What measures do you take to ensure patient confidentiality and privacy?
• How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care?