Inteeview q Flashcards
What experience do you have and how does this prepare you for the role
I currently work as band 3 ISW where gained experience with patients in clinical setting
Familiar with hospital environments and understand importance of working within multidisciplinary teamwork
My role involves working closely with radiographers and other AHPs which has enhanced my communication and organisational skills
My experience has allowed me to understand challenges faced by patients with chronic conditions, particularly in terms of there psychological well-being
I’m eager to build on this foundation by supporting psychology team in working with patients who are managing chronic pain or ME / CFS
Why are you interested in working in pain management and ME / CFS
Because of the impact the conditions have on individuals quality of life physically and psychologically
I have a personal connection to ME / CFS as close friend of mine has been struggling with condition for several years, gave me a unique insight into emotional and psychological toll of chronic conditions
Studying psychology at uni and believe this placement will significantly benefit my academic learning by providing real world experience in pain management and chronic illness
Working in these services will give me opportunity to apply psychological theories and research I am learning in my degree while gaining invaluable clinical experience.
Placement is crucial step towards my goal of becoming a clinical psychologist, will help me develop key skills and competencies
How would you approach building rapport with a patient struggling with ME : chronic pain
Building rapport essential to establish trust and creating therapuetic environment.
Approach each patient with empathy and non-judgemental attitude, understanding living with chronic pain and ME / CFS can be isolating and emotionally draining
From experiences with friend with ME / CFS I know the important of active listening to validate their experiences and acknowledge their difficulties
My psychology studies also teach me techniques of active listening and empathetic communication which I use in my current role. I would apply these skills in practice to establish a strong therapeutic relationship making patients feel understood and supported. I would use the knowledge I’m gaining in my degree, alongside the real world experience of this placement to allow me to work more effectively with patients and ensure they feel heard and respected
Can you describe a time you worked with a patient who was experiencing emotional distress? How did you approach this situation?
While I haven’t yet worked in a psychological role, my current role as ISW has exposed me to patients in distress. I see many patients with cause equina syndrome experiencing extreme pain and distress.
I also work with lots of claustrophobic patients and pride myself in usually 9/10 times being able to calm them down.
I am empathetic, and educational, I acknowledge anxiety and provide reassurance by explaining the procedure and offering them space to ask questions
Patients often give me credible feedback telling me I was able to help them or calm them down, which always reinforces my belief of the importance of providing emotional support in clinical settings.
In the future as I pursue my clinical psychology career I plan to incorporate the techniques in learning such as mindfulness, and cbt to help patients manage distress in a more structured way
How do you handle situations where a patient may not be engaging with treatment or interventions
Engagement can be challenging in cases where patients feel their condition is unmanageable or psychological interventions may seem unfamiliar or difficult.
I’ve seen this in my friend with CFS, sometimes she struggles to stay hopeful when treatments don’t immediately alleviate her symptoms
From personal experience and studies I would take a patient centred approach by exploring the underlying reasons for the disengagement, no two patients have the same reasons so it is hard to make a generic answer.
I would work collaboratively with patient to address any concerns or barriers making sure they feel heard.
From uni I’ve learnt techniques like motivational interviewing, which can be effective in gently encouraging patients to engage with treatment plans.
I would also help set realistic small goals as this has been beneficial with my friend
How would you support a patient who is feeling isolated or overwhelmed
Patients with ME often experience isolation, both physically due to the fatigue and emotionally because of misunderstandings of condition
My experience knowing someone with it I know how difficult it can be to balance the desire for social connection with the need for rest.
I would approach patient with empathy, acknowledging how overwhelming it can be and help them explore coping strategies for managing their energy and connecting with others in ways that are sustainable
As psychology student I’ve studied psychological impact of chronic illness and role of social support: I would help patient identify strengths in their support network and encourage communication with loved ones as well as help them navigate pacing strategies to avoid overexertion.
Placement will enhance my university learning by allowing me to apply theory into practice and develop a deeper understanding of how psychological interventions can alleviate the emotional burdened of chronic illness
What skills / qualities do you bring to this role
A strong foundation of empathy and communication skills which I have developed through current role and academic studies.
Highly adaptable, with the ability to work in a clinical setting and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
My personal experience supporting my friend had given me a unique insight into the emotional and psychological challenges of living with a chronic illness. This has further motivated me to pursue a career in clinical psychology. Though my degree in learning about psychological models and interventions such as CBT which I am eager to apply in practice to support patients dealing with chronic pain.
This role will help me grow as a clinical and contribute to my long term goal in clinical psychology
Do you know what happens at a pain management appointment
Initial information appointment
Questions about ur nature of the pain and affect it has on everyday life
Answer questions patient has
Plan for next steps made
What is the focus of the pain management team
Help people improve their lives despite having chronic pain.
Manage pain rather than getting rid of it.
Focus on a way to gain a sense of control over patients life and develop a sense that they have a choice in what they do
Tell us about your current background and why you want to pursue a career as an assistant clinical psychologist
Second year psych student and have been drawn to understanding mental health and how individuals cope with various psychological challenges and therapeutic interventions that can support them
Current role given me valuable exposure to healthcare environment where I assist patients in a clinical setting.
Developed strong interpersonal skills and understand patients needs
Personal experience with a close friend with CFS deepened my interest in how chronic health conditions affect both physical and psychological well-being
How do you ensure that you maintain a professional and empathetic approach when dealing with patients who may be distressed or agitated
I have learnt to stay calm, patient and empathetic when dealing with distressed patients
Patients sometimes feel anxious before procedure and my approach is to listen actively, acknowledge their feelings and offer reassurance
e.g when patients nervous about imaging procedure I take time to explain the process in detail and answer questions which often help alleviate anxiety
My personal experience supporting friend with CFS has taught me how important it is to offer consistent emotional support and create a safe and understanding environment
What is your understanding my of the role and how does it differ from a clinical psychologist
Support qualified clinical psychologists by providing therapeutic interventions, assessments and psychological support to patients.
Conduct crucial initial assessments, gather relevant information and assists with research and evaluations
Main difference is working under supervised guidance
How would you approach a patient assessment who is non-communicative or has difficulty expressing themselves
Current role I’ve encountered patients who are non-communicative or have difficulty expressing themselves.
I offer a calm space, I’m patient and reassure my presence while utilising non-verbal communication such as body language and visual cues
Also assess patient comfort levels and work with family members and caregivers to obtain necessary information
Tell us about a time you had to manage a difficult case
3 examples
Patients in a lot of pain while pat sliding (talk them through it, remind them the importance of the scan, tell them to take deep breaths and remain calm)
Claustrophobic anxious patients (talk them through procedure remind them they’re not trapped, breathing exercises, empathise with them)
Angry patients
I hat theoretical frameworks and approaches are you familiar with
A few from my studies including CBT which focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours and
person centred therapy which emphasises creating a safe non judgemental space
Developmental psychology - provides insight to how individuals grow and change over life span
Eager to learn how to apply these in practice and develop clinical skills through hands on experience
This role used the biopsychosocial model. Can you explain what this is and how it applies to patients with chronic fatigue and chronic pain?
A holistic approach to understanding health and illness.
Considers the complex interplay between biological, psychological and social factors.
Rather than focus on physical symptoms, model recognises persons overall well-being is influenced by multiple factors.
Developed by George Engel in 1970s.
In this role applying the biopsychosocial model means considering all factors when working with patients. By addressing the emotional and social challenges we can provide a more comprehensive and effective approach to care
Compassion focused therapy is an approach used in this role. Can you explain what it is and how it might benefit patients in these departments.
CFT is an approach designed to help individuals develop self-compassion and reduce self-criticism which are often linked to mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression.
In CFS patients may feel guilty for not being able to do what they used to or may blame themselves for their condition. They might think ‘I’m lazy’ or ‘I should be able to do this’ leading to increased disresss and worsen of symptoms
CFT helps them develop self kindness and accept their linitsrions without self blame
In pain management, patients may feel frustrated with their bodies or believe to be a burden to others. Some might think ‘no one understands how hard this is’ or ‘in weak because I can’t cope with the pain’ CFT encourages patients to treat themselves with the same compassion they would offer a friend in their situation
