[student456]

Well I have an interview coming up for a clincial externship on a general medicine floor. I've been practicing mock interview questions and I need help with these 2.

Is this is a good answer to "Tell me about a mistake you've made in clinical/work?"

Answer i want to discuss:

"Everyone makes mistakes and learns from them. One mistake that I made during my clinical time at __________ was when I entered a patients room without knocking on the door and asking permission to enter. The patient was getting a wound dressing changed and I forgot to knock on the door to ask if I could enter the room. I realized my mistake as soon as I opened the door. This mistake could have potentially embarassed the patient as they are already vulnerable in the hospital and I could have entered the room and exposed them. I have learned from my mistake and now always stop and knock on the door and request permission to enter the room from the patient before hand".

Also, I'm having trouble thinking of ways to answer the dreaded "what are your weaknesses?"

Anyone have any suggestions that won't sound stupid?

Thanks!

[student456]

I figured this example isnt something that will look horrible when i admit my mistake (ex:med error, etc) and shows that I have learned from my mistake...

[RN007]

My weakness is I have trouble delegating because I like to do things myself to make sure they get done right.

[WarEagle4Life]

Originally Posted by RN007

My weakness is I have trouble delegating because I like to do things myself to make sure they get done right.

I second that!

[WarEagle4Life]

When you are asked to give examples, please do give examples and don't do a philosophical tap dance. I do peer interviews and find it frustrating when I don't get a straight example.

Good Luck!

[Brownms46]

I believe you should be honest in responding to the what is my weakness question. Take the opportunity to really assess your weaknesses and address them by giving steps on your plans or actions taken to work on them. Be honest with yourself and others, and remember no one should expect anyone to be perfect!

[just1]

An easy way to handle the "What are your weaknesses" question is to point out the obvious. For example, if you are a new graduate, you could ackowledge that you have limited (or no) actual work experience but emphasize your clinical experiences in school. Always worked in Long Term Care but looking for a job in the hospital? You can answer, "no acute care experience" but emphasize skills that transfer from LTC to acute care. You can address qualifications as listed in a job ad--"Not ACLS certified but registered to take course in June". Recognize your weakness but demonstrate a willingness to learn.
Good luck!