Interview preparation for RN position on PEDIATRIC CRITICAL CARE TRANSPORT TEAM

getoverit, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Jan 27, 2010

I'd learn what type of aircraft they use, ask about configuration. Likes and dislikes about it, how long have they been in it. If they have their own webpage I'd read it carefully and choose points to ask questions about. Ask about types of patients they transport, which seem the most challenging.

I wouldn't ask about annual call volumes (because until you work there, it's none of your business).

Definitely make sure you're comfortable with pediatric problems...you don't want them to ask you a question about tracheal malacia and not know how to answer it! If you've taken the CCEMT-P course, I'd read over the pediatric section again. or if you've taken the PCCT or whatever they call it.

Scott DeBoer would be a great resource to give you good advice. He'd probably respond to this post if he sees it.

Good luck.

btw...are you already on a CCT team?

AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Jan 30, 2010

I'd learn what type of aircraft they use, ask about configuration. Likes and dislikes about it, how long have they been in it. If they have their own webpage I'd read it carefully and choose points to ask questions about. Ask about types of patients they transport, which seem the most challenging.
I wouldn't ask about annual call volumes (because until you work there, it's none of your business).
Definitely make sure you're comfortable with pediatric problems...you don't want them to ask you a question about tracheal malacia and not know how to answer it! If you've taken the CCEMT-P course, I'd read over the pediatric section again. or if you've taken the PCCT or whatever they call it.
Scott DeBoer would be a great resource to give you good advice. He'd probably respond to this post if he sees it.
Good luck.
btw...are you already on a CCT team?

Hi,

I am not currently on a CCT tream, I am working as RN in a fairly busy ED and as a paramedic. The interview seemed to go pretty well and they did call me that night to set up a "shadow" experience so I can see what their day is like....

Do you think its a good sign that they asked me to do that or do you think they are just trying to further narrow down the canidates by getting to know them a little better?

This is my absolute dream job and I REALLY want it! Is there anything in particular you think I should do or ask during the shadow time?

Sweetooth

getoverit, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Jan 30, 2010

Hey,

Congratulations on a good interview, I would take the "shadow" experience as a good sign. They probably wouldn't invite you to do that if they didn't feel you'd be a good addition to the team.

In answer to your question: I'd try to familiarize myself with the equipment they use (e.g. ProPaq, defib, vent, medication pumps, etc) prior to getting there. Ask about what the pros/cons are with the equipment. I don't know if they transport ground or air or both. I'd absolutely learn as much as I could beforehand about the type of aircraft if you're going to be flying. A big thing to ask about is their safety procedures, it's something that's ingrained in CCT and shows that it's on the forefront of your mind. Especially in the current climate of air ambulance accidents, it should be the #1 priority of any program you want to associate yourself with.

I'm sure you know the thing to avoid is making it sound like "this is so cool"...you want to portray yourself as a quiet professional and consummate team player. CCT is no place for egos (unfortunately there are some out there but most people want to avoid them).

Also, like I'd said before, you could ask about the crews' opinion of what is the more challenging aspects of their transports. Patient conditions, equipment incompatibilities, weather patterns, referring facilities, etc.

Sounds like you did real well in your interview and I hope you have a great time spending the day with them. good luck and be careful....let me know how it goes!

AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Feb 4, 2010

So I did my shadowing today, it went well. I am just so shy though I think that could kill my chances.

Anyway I sent a thank you note for the interview time, should I send another thank you to the crew for the shadow experience?

Sweetooth

getoverit, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Feb 5, 2010

good deal. the only thing the shyness could hurt is that CCT has a lot of public speaking and teaching as part of the job (unfortunately we can't be riding around all the time!!).

another thank you note couldn't hurt. it's hard to be too polite. address it directly to the crewmembers you worked with.

glad you had a good experience and good luck on getting the job.

AnnieOaklyRN, BSN, RN, EMT-P · Feb 8, 2010

Thanks.... I guess I'll have to move on to plan B if this doesn't work out... which it may not of course..

Plan B involves moving out of this state, so I would much rather get this position of course especially since it would be the best job in the world.

Are there anythings that might indicate whether or not I have a chance? Like behavior etc of the people I was shadowing. They were all very nice and informative.

Sweetooth