New Grad with first interview at UPMC Children's Hospital

Pediatric Critical Care Columnist · Jan 20, 2011

There will definitely be some scenario-based questions.

Although the unit you're interviewing for is ortho/neuro, you should prepare for some respiratory scenarios. Many of the problems children have that require a stay in hospital are either directly respiratory or they have a significant respiratory component.

Think about how you'd conduct a neurological assessment of children in different age groups. The techniques you use will vary by age, as will the criteria you're assessing. Obviously an infant isn't going to answer questions, but they do have verbal behaviors you can assess. Know the difference between the adult, pediatric and infant Glasgow coma scales.

Make a list of the more common neuro problems that would result in hospitalization: traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, posterior fossa/sella turcica/parenchymal tumors, inborn errors of metabolism, craniofacial anomalies and so on. Think about what their treatment would include and then make a list of priority interventions.

Do the same thing with common ortho problems: compound/unstable spinal fractures, spinal instrumentation, congenital hip dysplasia, cleft lip/palate, osteomyelitis, tendon releases and transfers, osteotomies and so on. You won't go wrong if you respond in a priority-intervention manner, using the nursing process to get there.

Don't forget to think about interpersonal issues. What's your philosophy of family centered care? How do you deal with conflict? How do you handle stress? What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Good luck!

jackie345 · Jan 20, 2011

Wow thanks for your reply that was very thorough. I will definitely review all of those.

Liketravln · May 18, 2011

Hi everyone. I got an interview coming up at the Children's Hospital at the UPMC. Im super excited and would love to work there. This is my first interview. I think im prepared for the basic questions. But I wanted advice from anyone whose had a peds interview if they ask any scenario questions just so I know if I should review any of my peds material for the interview. (It's an ortho/neuro unit) Thanks in advance!

Did you get the job at CHP? I used to work there, it's a great place to learn!