20 Gundersen Health System Interview Questions and Answers

Gundersen Health System is a not-for-profit, integrated health system that serves more than 19 counties in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Gundersen is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare and is consistently ranked as one of the top healthcare systems in the country.

If you’re applying for a job at Gundersen, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of Gundersen interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Gundersen Health System Interview Process

The interview process at Gundersen Health System can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most positions will require at least one phone interview and one in-person interview. The interviews are generally very professional and informative, and the interviewer will ask questions about your experience and qualifications. In some cases, you may be asked to take a drug test or background check as part of the interview process.

1. What do you know about Gundersen Health System?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your research skills and determine whether you have any knowledge of their organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention one or two things that stood out to you about Gundersen Health System when researching the job listing.

Example: “I know that Gundersen Health System has been named as one of the best places to work in Wisconsin for five years running. I also noticed that they offer many different types of healthcare services, including urgent care, primary care, behavioral health and more. This tells me that Gundersen Health System is committed to providing quality care to its patients.”

2. Do you have any experience working with patients who are in pain?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with patients who are experiencing pain and how you handled those situations. Use examples from your previous work experience to highlight your ability to handle challenging patient care situations.

Example: “In my last position, I worked in a hospital setting where many of our patients were experiencing severe pain. One way that I helped ease their pain was by encouraging them to use relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Another method I used was distraction therapy, which involved me asking patients about their favorite hobbies or activities to distract them from their pain.”

3. How would you handle a patient that is being rude to you?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenging situations. They want to know that you have the ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations. In your answer, try to explain what steps you would take to diffuse the situation while still maintaining a positive attitude.

Example: “I find it’s important to maintain my composure when patients are rude or disrespectful. I would first ask them if they’re having any pain or discomfort so I could address their concerns. If they continue to be rude, I would excuse myself from the room and call for another nurse to assist me with the patient. This way, we can ensure our safety without allowing the patient to disrespect us.”

4. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an upset patient, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and stressful situations. Use examples from your experience to show that you have the ability to remain calm under pressure, communicate effectively with patients and solve problems quickly.

Example: “When I was working as a nurse in an emergency room, I had a patient who came in complaining of chest pain. After examining him, I determined he was having a heart attack. He became very upset when I told him this, but I remained calm and explained everything to him so he could understand what was happening. I also called his family members into the room so they could be there for support. The patient calmed down after talking with them and agreed to go to the hospital for treatment.”

5. Why do you think you’re the right person for this position?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel they align with the job. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list out specific skills or experiences that make you qualified for the role.

Example: “I think I’m the right person for this position because of my extensive experience working in healthcare facilities. Throughout my career, I’ve worked as a nurse, medical assistant and patient care technician, which has given me valuable insight into what patients need from their health providers. I also have excellent communication skills, which I use to help patients understand their diagnoses and treatment plans.”

6. Have you ever worked with a difficult physician before? If so, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and whether you have experience working with a difficult physician. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication skills and ability to work in a team environment.

Example: “I once worked with a physician who was very outspoken about his opinions on patient care. He would often disagree with my decisions regarding patients and sometimes even questioned my qualifications as a nurse. I learned that it’s important to listen to all perspectives when working with physicians. So, I started asking him questions about why he felt the way he did. This helped me understand where he was coming from and allowed us to come up with solutions together.”

7. What does your work schedule look like? Are there any days or hours you cannot work?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are flexible with your schedule. They want to know that you can work any shift, including nights and weekends, as needed. When answering this question, be honest about your availability. Explain that you would be willing to work any hours or days necessary for the job.

Example: “I am available to work any day of the week and any time of day. I have always been a night owl, so working late shifts is something I’m used to. However, I am also happy to work during the day if needed.”

8. In your opinion, what makes a good nurse?

This question is a great way to show your passion for nursing and the qualities you possess that make you an excellent nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what makes you a good nurse and how those traits relate to the job description.

Example: “A good nurse has compassion, patience and dedication. They are always willing to help their patients in any way they can and will go above and beyond to ensure their patients receive the best care possible. I believe these three traits are essential to being a successful nurse because they allow me to provide my patients with the comfort and support they need.”

9. Can you tell us about a time when you disagreed with a coworker and how you handled it?

This question can help the interviewer learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you resolve conflicts. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you disagreed with someone but were able to work through it in a productive way.

Example: “I once had a disagreement with my manager over an assignment I was given. At first, I thought that I would have to complete the task on my own, however, after talking with my manager, we came up with a solution together. We decided that I would do most of the work while she helped me when needed.”

10. Describe a time where you were faced with a stressful situation and how you dealt with it.

When answering this question, it can be beneficial to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.

Example: “When I was working as a nurse at a local hospital, we had an influx of patients come in with the flu. We were short on staff that day, so I volunteered to stay late to help out. It was quite stressful because there were many patients who needed care, but I knew my team would do everything they could to get through the night. In order to keep myself calm, I focused on one task at a time and made sure to take breaks when needed.”

11. What are some of your best qualities?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you view yourself. They want to know what skills or traits you have that will help you succeed in the role. When answering, think of a few qualities that are important for this position. Try to choose ones that relate to the job description.

Example: “I am extremely organized and detail-oriented. I also work well under pressure and can prioritize tasks effectively. These skills helped me complete my last project ahead of schedule while still maintaining high quality.”

12. What are some of your worst qualities?

Employers ask this question to see if you are self-aware. They want to know that you can recognize your flaws and work on them. When answering, try to think of a quality that is not harmful but could be annoying to others. Try to make it something that you have worked on in the past or plan to improve in the future.

Example: “I am very passionate about my work, which is great most of the time. However, sometimes I get so excited that I forget to listen to other people’s ideas. In the past year, I’ve learned how important it is to actively listen to what others say. I now take notes during meetings to ensure I don’t miss anything.”

13. Would you be willing to relocate if needed?

If you’re interviewing for a position at Gundersen Health System, it’s likely that the company would like to hire someone who is willing to relocate. If you are not currently living in Wisconsin or Minnesota, this question can be an opportunity to explain why you might be open to relocating. You can also use this as an opportunity to discuss your willingness to travel if needed.

Example: “I am happy to relocate anywhere within the United States. I have lived in California my entire life and am ready for a change of scenery. I’m excited about the prospect of moving somewhere new and meeting new people. I understand that relocation is often part of the job, so I am prepared to make that transition.”

14. How would you describe yourself as a leader?

Leadership is an important skill for any nurse to have. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you would apply them in a new role. To answer, think of a time when you led a team or group. Explain what made you a good leader and the results that came from your leadership.

Example: “I believe I am a strong leader because I can motivate others to work hard and achieve their goals. In my last position, I was responsible for leading a large team of nurses who worked on different shifts. One day, one of our nurses called out sick, so I had to fill in for her shift. I used my communication skills to inform everyone about the change and make sure they knew what to do. As a result, we were able to cover the shift without any issues.”

15. Have you ever been fired from a job?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s usually asked to see if you have any experience with termination. Employers want to know that you can take responsibility for your actions and learn from them. When answering this question, be honest about what happened but focus on the positive aspects of how you’ve grown since then.

Example: “I was fired from my first job as a receptionist at a law firm because I accidentally sent an email to all employees instead of just my coworker. My boss told me that while she appreciated my enthusiasm, I needed to be more careful when sending emails. Since then, I’ve learned to triple-check everything I send before hitting ‘send.’ I also make sure to always use proper email etiquette.”

16. What would you do if a patient was unhappy with their care?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and criticism. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation in which you helped resolve an issue with a patient or family member.

Example: “I once had a patient who was unhappy with their care because they felt like I didn’t spend enough time with them during their appointment. After talking with the patient, I learned that they were going through some difficult personal issues and just wanted someone to listen to them. I apologized for not spending more time with them and offered to schedule another appointment so we could talk further.”

17. Tell us about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your customer service skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about a time when you helped someone who was in need or went above and beyond for a client.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a patient who came into our urgent care facility with a broken arm. The patient told us that they were going on a cruise soon and needed their arm to heal quickly so they could go on their trip. We decided to put them in an accelerated healing program where they would come in every day instead of once a week. They healed much faster than expected, and they were able to go on their cruise.”

18. Explain a time where you used logic to solve a problem.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach problems and solve them. Use examples from your previous work experience to show that you are a critical thinker who can use logic to find solutions.

Example: “In my last position, I was working with a team of nurses on a project when one of our colleagues had to leave for an emergency situation. We were in the middle of a meeting where we were discussing patient care plans, so I used logic to figure out which parts of the plan could be completed without the nurse’s input. This allowed us to continue our meeting while waiting for the nurse to return.”

19. What would you do if you saw a fellow employee making a mistake?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to handle conflict. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you helped someone or were helped by someone else.

Example: “When I was working as an ER nurse, I noticed that one of my coworkers wasn’t checking the patient’s blood pressure before administering medication. This could have been dangerous for the patients, so I spoke with her about it privately. She apologized and started double-checking the blood pressure after giving out medications. It’s important to speak up when you see something like this because it could save lives.”

20. What would you do if two coworkers were fighting during work hours?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and disagreements with coworkers. It can also show them your ability to resolve conflicts in a professional manner. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you would take to solve the problem and keep everyone’s morale high.

Example: “I would first try to calm both parties down by asking them what happened and if they needed anything. If one of the employees was being aggressive or disrespectful, I would ask that person to leave the room so we could talk about the situation without upsetting anyone else. Then, I would listen to both sides of the story and make sure each party felt heard. After that, I would find out whether either employee had any suggestions for resolving the issue.”