5 Common Geriatric Nurse Interview Questions & Answers

I have six years of experience in geriatric medicine, and before that, I worked for two years in a medical center where I helped to treat many geriatric patients. These eight years of experience have helped me become quite familiar with the common ailments and conditions that geriatric patients suffer and how to best treat them. In both of the medical centers where I worked, I learned from some amazing managers, doctors, nurses and other care givers on how to give quality, coordinated care to a range of geriatric patients with significant health problems.

I make sure to study carefully study each person’s health history before that person visits so that I understand her or his individual situation. After gaining this knowledge, I then set aside the paperwork and listen and care for the patient. I remember one of my geriatric patients who had diabetes, kidney problems and a deteriorating hip. This complex set of issues made each visit a critical time to pay careful attention and truly care for the patient. Not only did this patient come to trust me and appreciate my care, I was also able to identify an additional complication that was occurring with one of the patient’s medications and help resolve the issue by reporting this to the doctor.

Most patients do not feel good when they come into the office, and this definitely affects their mood. I have had many experiences with disgruntled and angry patients who are ready to snap at the closest living thing! When I come into contact with these patients, I remember to listen and give them a chance to voice their concerns and frustrations. After listening to them, I repeat back their concerns in a patient tone and express my hope that I can help them. In most cases, this level of care and compassion can help change the attitude of any angry patient.

I have two years of experience as a hospital nurse at a skilled nursing facility, and I completed specialized geriatric nurse training in an accredited program at the University Hospital in Houston, Texas. First, my most current hospital experience at the skilled nursing facility has given me significant inpatient geriatric care experience. I covered the night shift for both years. My biggest goal during this time was to develop my skills with a wide variety of geriatric patients, and I achieved this goal. My manager recently told me that doctors requested that I specifically be assigned to help with their complex cases because of my attention to detail. Additionally, my training at the University Hospital put me under the tutelage of some of the best geriatric nurses and doctors in the nation.

At the skilled nursing facility where I worked for four years, I worked with hundreds of patients who sought hospice care. With dozens of patients, I helped to coordinate this care under the direction of a geriatric doctor. I paid careful attention and gained significant experience with hospice care medication management and providing positive bedside manner.