20 Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals Interview Questions and Answers

When you go to an interview, you want to be prepared to answer questions about the company you’re interviewing with. This is especially true when you’re interviewing with Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals. This hospital is known for its cancer, cardiovascular, neuroscience, and orthopedic surgery services. To make sure you’re prepared for your interview, brush up on your knowledge of the company with these Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals interview questions.

Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals Interview Process

The interview process at Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals is generally quick and easy. Most applicants will interviewed by a recruiter, department manager, and/or clinical nurse specialist. The interviews are conducted via Zoom, and the questions asked are typically straightforward. Applicants may also be asked to tour the facility and/or shadow an RN.

1. Why did you choose to be a nurse?

This question is a great way to show your passion for the nursing profession. When answering this question, it can be helpful to talk about what inspired you to become a nurse and why you enjoy working in healthcare.

Example: “Ever since I was young, I knew that I wanted to work in healthcare. My mother was a nurse, so I grew up watching her care for patients. She always told me how rewarding her job was, and I’ve found that to be true. I love being able to help people every day, and I’m excited to continue my career at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals.”

2. What have you done to improve your nursing skills since graduating from school?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you’ve grown as a nurse and what steps you’ve taken to improve your skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any certifications or training programs you’ve completed since graduating from nursing school.

Example: “Since graduating from nursing school, I have continued my education by taking several continuing education courses on topics like wound care and infection control. I also took an online course that helped me learn more about treating patients with dementia.”

3. Have you ever had a situation where a patient has been unhappy with the care you provided, how did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your interpersonal skills and ability to resolve conflict. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you helped the patient understand why their care was necessary or how you resolved the issue with them.

Example: “I once had a patient who came in for a knee surgery but wanted to know if there were any alternative treatments that could help her pain before she went through with the procedure. I explained to her that while there are some alternative methods of treatment, they have not been proven to work as well as surgery when treating knee pain. She understood my explanation and decided to go ahead with the surgery.”

4. Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an agitated patient. How did you approach the situation?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle stressful situations and your ability to remain calm in a challenging environment. Use examples from your experience that show your problem-solving skills, communication skills and conflict resolution skills.

Example: “In my previous role as a nurse, I had a patient who was upset because they were experiencing pain after their surgery. The patient became increasingly agitated when I explained that there wasn’t anything more we could do for them at this time. Instead of arguing with the patient, I took a step back and asked if they would like me to get someone else to speak with them. They agreed, so I called our doctor on call and explained the situation. He came down to speak with the patient and helped them feel more comfortable.”

5. Would you describe yourself as detail-oriented?

This question is a great way to determine how well you can follow instructions and complete tasks. When answering this question, it’s important to show that you are detail-oriented by providing an example of when you were able to successfully perform a task or project with accuracy.

Example: “I would definitely say I’m detail-oriented because I’ve been working in healthcare for the past five years and have always made sure to follow all procedures and protocols while performing my job duties. For instance, at my previous hospital, we had a patient who was allergic to latex. I knew that if I didn’t pay close attention to their chart, they could have ended up having a severe reaction. So, I double-checked the information on the chart before entering the room.”

6. What would you do if a patient was not following their doctor’s orders?

This question is a behavioral one that allows you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work with patients who may be challenging. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of how you would handle the situation.

Example: “If I encountered a patient who was not following their doctor’s orders, I would first try to understand why they were acting in such a way. If there was a valid reason for them not following the instructions, I would find another solution to help them achieve the same results as the original treatment plan. However, if they did not have a good reason for not following the instructions, I would explain to them the importance of doing so and give them a set amount of time to comply.”

7. How do you feel about working with patients that are in critical condition?

This question is an opportunity to show your compassion and empathy for patients. When answering, it can be helpful to share a specific story or experience you’ve had with working with critically ill patients.

Example: “I have worked in the emergency room before, so I am familiar with seeing patients that are in critical condition. In my last position, we had a patient who was brought into the ER after being involved in a car accident. The patient was unconscious when they arrived at the hospital, but we were able to stabilize them and perform surgery on their injuries. After the surgery, the patient woke up and was able to go home.”

8. Do you believe you can handle multiple tasks at once?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your multitasking skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific instances where you’ve successfully completed multiple tasks at once.

Example: “I believe I am able to handle multiple tasks at once because of my ability to prioritize and organize my time effectively. In my last position as an ER nurse, I was responsible for many patients at once, which required me to manage several tasks simultaneously. For example, when one patient needed their vitals checked while another needed assistance with changing their bandages, I would complete these tasks in succession without any issues.”

9. What is your experience working in healthcare?

This question is an opportunity to share your experience and expertise in the healthcare field. If you have previous work experience, be sure to highlight any skills or knowledge that will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I worked as a nurse for five years at a local hospital where I cared for patients with cancer. In my position, I was responsible for administering medications, monitoring patient vitals and educating patients on their treatment plans. I also assisted doctors during surgeries and procedures.”

10. Are you comfortable using tablets and computers for documentation purposes?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your computer skills and how you feel about using tablets or computers for documentation purposes. If you have experience with these devices, explain what types of programs you use and why they’re beneficial.

Example: “I’ve used a variety of different software programs in my previous position as a nurse at the hospital where I worked previously. The program we used was very helpful because it allowed me to enter information quickly and accurately while also allowing me to access patient records from anywhere. This is especially useful when I’m working with patients who are experiencing pain and need immediate care.”

11. What are some of your strengths and weaknesses?

This question is a common one in interviews, and it’s important to be prepared with an answer. When answering this question, try to focus on your strengths rather than weaknesses.

Example: “I am extremely organized and detail-oriented, which helps me stay on top of my work. I also have excellent communication skills, so I’m able to clearly explain complex medical procedures to patients. However, sometimes I can get overwhelmed by large projects or tasks that require a lot of research. In those situations, I make sure to break the project down into smaller steps.”

12. Describe your experience performing routine health checks on patients.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with physical examinations and how you interact with patients. Use examples from previous work experiences or describe a time when you performed a health check on a patient in the past.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for performing routine health checks on patients before they left the hospital. This included checking their vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature, and making sure that they were comfortable enough to leave the facility. If any of these factors were abnormal, I would have contacted a physician to discuss treatment options.”

13. This job requires extensive standing and walking. Is this something you think you could handle?

This question is asked to determine if you are physically capable of performing the job duties. When answering this question, make sure to mention your physical capabilities and how they will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I am very physically fit and have no problem standing or walking for long periods of time. I think my physical fitness level would be an asset to this position because it means I can work longer hours without getting tired.”

14. Describe your experience taking blood pressure and temperature readings.

This question is a behavioral one that allows you to demonstrate your skills and abilities. When answering this question, it can be helpful to include an example of how you took the readings and what the results were.

Example: “I have experience taking blood pressure and temperature readings in my previous role as a nurse’s aide at a local hospital. I was responsible for monitoring patients’ vital signs throughout their stay and reporting any changes to the nurses on duty. One day, I noticed that a patient’s temperature had risen slightly. I reported this change to the nurse who then checked in on the patient. She found that the patient was experiencing some discomfort and increased his medication dosage.”

15. Are you comfortable handling needles and administering injections?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your comfort level with medical procedures. If you have experience administering injections, describe how you feel about it and what kind of training you’ve had.

Example: “I am comfortable handling needles and giving injections. I worked as an EMT in my hometown for two years, where I learned how to administer shots and other medications. I also took a class on basic first aid that included learning how to give injections.”

16. In addition to nurses and doctors, you will need to work with other staff members such as maintenance workers, housekeepers and receptionists. How would you approach these interactions?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work with others. To answer, think of a time when you worked well with other staff members or professionals in another field.

Example: “I have always enjoyed working with others because it allows me to learn from their experiences and expertise. In my current role as a nurse, I often collaborate with housekeepers and maintenance workers to ensure that the hospital is clean and safe for patients and visitors. For example, I once noticed that one of our elevators was out of order. I asked a maintenance worker if he could fix it, and he said he would do so after his shift ended. However, I told him that we needed it fixed immediately due to an emergency situation. He agreed to help us right away.”

17. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Are you able to commit to any shift we ask you to?

This question is to determine if you are able to work the hours required by this position. It’s important that you understand what your schedule will look like and how it may affect your personal life.

Example: “I am available for any shift, however, I do have a young child at home who would need care during my overnight shifts. I can provide references from previous employers regarding my availability.”

18. What is one thing about being a nurse that you enjoy most?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you enjoy your job and are passionate about being a nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to talk about something specific about nursing that you find enjoyable or interesting.

Example: “One thing I love most about being a nurse is helping patients feel more comfortable during their hospital stay. As a patient, I know how stressful it can be when you’re in the hospital, so I try my best to make sure all of my patients have everything they need and are as comfortable as possible.”

19. If hired, what would you say is the number one quality required to succeed as a registered nurse?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what it takes to be a successful RN. When answering this question, make sure to emphasize your own personal qualities and how they relate to the job’s requirements.

Example: “The number one quality required to succeed as a registered nurse is empathy. As a nurse, I am responsible for caring for patients who are often in vulnerable situations. It is important to me that I treat every patient with respect and compassion. I also believe that empathy is essential when working as part of a team because it allows me to better understand my colleagues’ feelings and needs.”

20. What kind of training/education do you think should be mandatory for all new employees starting at our hospital?

This question is a great way to show your interest in the hospital’s mission and values. It also gives you an opportunity to talk about any training or certifications you have that are relevant to this position.

Example: “I think it’s important for all new employees to receive some kind of orientation on the hospital’s policies, procedures and culture. I would also like to see more training opportunities available for staff members who want to learn more about specific areas of medicine or treatment.”