Psych RN interview!! Need advice!!!

[FLLPN3339]

Well, after waiting months for an interview(after graduating), I finally got a call back & have an interview scheduled for next week!! And my dream job nonetheless!!! I love psych & currently work with eating d/o clients(as an LPN). My interview is at a psych hospital, which I have never done acute inpatient psych before. Any pointers for the interview? Anything I should start brushing up on?? Thanks for your help!

[ddunnrn]

I have always found that focusing on your willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities, and also offering to work with a flexible schedule (if you can) will impress a prospective employer. If asked about various hypothetical situations, remember safety is always first, and whatever allows the patient the most autonomy is second. If you have any further questions or just want to vent, feel free to email me, as I have 27 years of psych experience in a variety of settings.

Dave Dunn, RN

[FutureRNBSN12]

I have always found that focusing on your willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities, and also offering to work with a flexible schedule (if you can) will impress a prospective employer. If asked about various hypothetical situations, remember safety is always first, and whatever allows the patient the most autonomy is second. If you have any further questions or just want to vent, feel free to email me, as I have 27 years of psych experience in a variety of settings.

Dave Dunn, RN

Hi Dave, I was wondering if you could give me some examples of typical questions asked during a psych interview?

[TerpGal02, ASN]

You might.want to brush up on your psych meds. Many times they ask scenario questions like, "what would you do with a patient that is becoming more agitated"

[GeneralJinjur]

OP, how did it go?For everyone else, I would emphasize honesty in your responses during the interview. Remember that we have finely tuned B-S-o-meters in psych and we'd rather hear what you really think.

[ddunnrn]

Sorry for taking so long to reply. I agree with the other posters--just answer truthfully, be positive about not knowing everything--it gives you an opportunity to grow. As I said previously, I've always thought that one of the most important attributes of a good psych nurse is flexibility and an open mind. Also, your interviewer might be more interested in the questions YOU ask thn the answers to his/her questions. It might sow your level of preparedness and interest in the position. It's always good to find out as much about the "culture" of a facility as you can before accepting a position.