Help Please- first interview in years!

[NiamhMcLoughlin]

Hi Everyone,

I've just completed a return to practice course after nearly 8 years out of nursing, and have been invited for my first interview.

After so long out I'm wondering what they are likely to ask me at interview (its not for any particular area, but I'm hoping to ask for Recovery/High Dependancy Area), as I would like top be well prepared to help with my nerves!

During my return to practice we completed 15 hours a week placement which boils down to one and half shifts, which wasn't a lot considering all the ground to cover, so while I did cover quite a bit, I'm hoping for your guidance to help knuckle down to hopefully the highly likely topics, as I'm sure you will agree the possibilities are endless, the scope is infinite, and the learning never stops (or at least it very definitely shouldn't!!)

Any and all help will be appreciated more than you know!

Thanks.

[NiamhMcLoughlin]

PS the practice hours totalled 150, so it was a shift and half a week for ten very quick weeks, and I had to wait for an Occ Health appointment for 3weeks right in the middle, so this meant that the little practice time was further fragmented... the only reason I mention this is that I would have liked to cover more ground and develop more confidence (the job I'm applying for has a great preceptorship programme so it would be an excellent opportunity in terms of support and confidence building; but there's like weeks of interviews, so for every job there are hundreds of applicants- eek!) I would be forever grateful for any tips at all, particularly UK interview experienced people (recent and relevant legislation etc- for which the scope is also infinite!!)

Ta so very much,

From a very nervous person

[kttc]

Kudos to you for tackling a return to the bedside! I can't speak for the UK, but healthcare has really changed in the US over the last 8 years. You may already be familiar with all the core measures for safety and quality out there. Sometimes numbers and outcomes seem to drive things from a business point of view.The art of nursing and intangible things that nurses do don't always bring the kind of return on investment (ROI) that "numbers" do. That might strike you a bit differently when you return. Realize it for what it is and try to balance so that you don't become frustrated and burnt out. Not sure what type of setting you are interviewing for, but it would be helpful to be aware of what the outcome measures are for that area.

Also, the mission, values, and philosophy of the organization. Be knowledgeable in other words. Attitude is important too - flexibility, teamwork (huge), lifelong learning interest, reliability, willingness to learn (especially given you are returning and may not know all the new technology being used now). Whatever you do, DO NOT ask for vacation permission or if you have to work "x" holiday. That can come later. I've interviewed young nurses who have done this (and weren't hired). Be respectful, polite, above all honest. Know what your weakness is and be ready to speak to it (everyone has a weakness...just put a positive spin on it). Manners are essential. Be sure to state somewhere how you really want to take care of/help patients. Thank you cards are helpful and may set you apart from other candidates.

Bottom line: all things being equal, they are looking to see if you are a good fit for the unit and can answer "yes" to the question, Do I want to work with this person? Try to relax and "have a chat" vs a formal interview. They want to get to know you and who you are.

Good luck!