1st RN interview tomorrow! Advice?

Published

I have an interview tomorrow for a med/surg position, & I'm super nervous. I was talking to my mom about what to say & I brought up my hx of cancer. She said I probably shouldn't mention it because whoever is interviewing me might assume I'll get sick all the time & they would need someone to cover for me. I'm very healthy & I still see my oncologist but only every 4 months. My hx of being a 2x cancer survivor is so much of who I am & why I chose this field. I feel like my experience as a patient taught me a lot about the kind of nurse I want to become. Should I keep my mouth shut? TIA!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

DO NOT bring up your cancer history. It may be the ruin of your chances of securing a job. Sorry for being so blunt, but people can be very unforgiving. Keep in mind that asking about health, marital status, kids, race, income etc are illegal for interviewers to ask.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thanks! No need to be sorry. I could still mention it in a round-about way, correct? Like just say "my experience as a patient..." & they can't dig anymore into that?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

My first thought was I think it depends how old you are. You can bring it up generally and no they can't dig into that.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Med/Surg, ER, LDRP.

I agree with Lev. You can mention something general about your experience as a patient, but they are not allowed to probe for details about why you were a patient. Really, it's none of their business and I would hate if they held it against you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm 23. Dx with leukemia (aml) at 18. Relasped at 20. Thanks for all the advice! I think I'll keep it on the DL for now...

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Human resources wanna make sure of two things. 1. you are hard dedicated worker with a good head on your shoulders. 2. Your not going to kill a patient. So show a humble humble attitude you're willing to learn you don't know it all but you have no problem asking questions you look forward to working with fellow nurses and proforma your nursing duties whole heartedly. And don't be afraid to say, when can I start? It shows a positive attitude. Dress in business attire, have eye contact and don't have wondering eyes. Stay focus and sell yourself. Share something wonderful you did in nursing school weather it was good grades or a good save when in clinicals. And a question they will never ask but want to know is are you going to have kids soon. Reassure them that children are not in your immediate plans by bringing up the topic yourself. Enjoy the moment.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Interview went well! Nurse manager of the surgical / oncology floors wants me to come in for a second interview! Good sign?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Got the job ^^

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.
Got the job ^^

Awesome!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

That's great good for you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion