Interview Questions Flashcards
Why do you want to become a paramedic?
I have the qualities needed for paramedicine: resilience, empathy, and strong communication skills.
Solo travelling Australia and working in pharmacies across the country gave me experience in adapting to new situations, working in diverse, professional teams, navigating cultural and linguistic differences, communicating with healthcare professionals and helping a wide range of patients: such as disabled, elderly and terminally ill etc.
Being in an ambulance on Wednesday and shadowing Craig as he took care of calls has made me feel confident that I have the communication and teamwork skills, empathy, and ability to work through high pressure situations to provide the best care for patients in need of critical care.
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing paramedics today?
So many paramedics are suffering from burnout caused by overwhelming workloads, record numbers of 999 calls and the public misusing the ambulance service.
When observing Craig, I was able to speak with experienced paramedics in the LAS, and learned that the volume of calls had increased dramatically since they had started out as a paramedic. I was told that around 10-12 years ago, 4,000 calls would be considered a busy day. Now it often reaches 7-8,000, even reaching 10,000 on New Years Eve.
There are increased mental health calls, which are extremely challenging, and take a long time to work through. Craig received a call for a man having chest pains after taking methamphetamine. Once we had arrived, he received more information that the man had already had two ambulance attendances that morning, was suffering from anxiety and depression, and had refused to go to hospital on the two attendances. He maintained that he did not need to go to hospital once we arrived, and Craig ensured that he understood the risk he was taking. When Craig documented the interaction and the course of treatment, we found out he had called LAS 35 times this month.
Paramedics must also be able to manage being exposed to trauma, death and distress from patients, while remaining calm and professional.
Tell us about a time you were under pressure and how you handled it.
While covering a shift at an unfamiliar pharmacy in Australia, an elderly patient became frustrated when his concession card hadn’t been updated with his patient history details, and his prescription price was incorrect.
I stayed calm, reassured him, worked with the pharmacist, and updated his details quickly.
The issue was resolved, and the patient left satisfied. This taught me the importance of staying composed, communicating effectively to keep the patient calm, and focusing on solutions under pressure.
How will you cope with the emotional demands of being a paramedic?
Firstly, it is important to accept that it’s normal to feel stress, sadness, frustration after challenging calls.
I understand that my role is to provide immediate care and reassurance, not to cure. It is important to focus on the positive impact that the job makes, even in small ways, such as comforting a patient or supporting their family.
Through my shadowing experience with Craig, I learned the importance of connecting with fellow paramedics - they understand the demands of the job and can offer perspective. I would also possibly access counselling services if needed.
What qualities do you have that make you suited to paramedicine?
Resilience, empathy, and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of individuals.
Working in pharmacies has given me experience in communicating effectively with both healthcare professionals and patients, adaptability, problem-solving, and cultural awareness.
I’m passionate about working with a team to deliver the best patient care.
Why do you think teamwork is important for paramedics?
Paramedics often work in pairs or as part of a wider healthcare team, where effective communication and trust are essential.
My experience working with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals taught me the value of collaboration, problem-solving, and mutual support.
In challenging situations, teamwork ensures the best outcomes for patients.
How would you handle a situation where a patient or family member is angry or upset?
I would remain calm and focus on de-escalating the situation.
Minimise overwhelming stimuli (move them away from distressing sights), listen actively to their concerns, use language to demonstrate that you understand and care, and assure that you are there to do what is best for the patient. Be polite but assertive when you need to ask for space to help.
By staying empathetic and solution-oriented, I’d work to resolve the issue while maintaining professionalism.
How do you stay motivated and resilient in challenging situations?
I focus on the positive impact of my work and the opportunity to help people during difficult times.
Using techniques like mindfulness, self-reflection, and peer support helps me stay balanced.
My passion for learning and self-improvement drives me to overcome challenges and grow in my role.
What steps would you take if you arrived at a scene where a patient refused treatment?
I would remain calm and respectful, listening to the patient’s concerns and reasons for refusing treatment.
I’d explain the potential risks of refusing care and ensure they understand their options.
If the refusal persisted, I’d document the situation thoroughly and, if appropriate, consult my partner or supervisor for advice. Maintaining the patient’s autonomy is essential while ensuring their safety.
Why do you think cultural awareness is important in paramedicine?
Cultural awareness is vital to provide respectful and appropriate care to all patients.
During my pharmacy work in Australia, I often interacted with patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Understanding their needs, preferences, and communication styles helped me build trust and provide better care.
This awareness ensures patients feel valued and understood during vulnerable moments.
How do you prioritize your tasks when faced with multiple emergencies?
I would assess the situation and prioritize care based on clinical need and urgency.
Effective communication with my team would be key to ensuring resources are used efficiently.
My experience in busy pharmacies taught me to stay calm and organized when managing competing demands.
What are your short-term and long-term career goals in paramedicine?
In the short term, I aim to complete my paramedic science degree and develop strong clinical skills during my placements.
Long-term, I’d like to specialize, perhaps in critical care or mental health, and contribute to educating future paramedics through mentorship or training.
What do you think is the most rewarding part of being a paramedic?
Providing care and reassurance, not just to patients but also to their families, is incredibly fulfilling.
I’m motivated by the opportunity to continually learn, grow, and work as part of a skilled, supportive team.
Why do you want to study paramedic science at the University of Suffolk?
Suffolk’s use of simulation based training provides a realistic, safe environment to practice and build confidence before progressing on to placement.
The program prioritises hands on practical training, and offers access to the latest paramedic equipment ensuring that I graduate familiar with NHS-standard tools and processes. This will help me transition smoothly into the workforce.
The course is also led by experienced paramedics who are not only knowledgeable but dedicated to supporting students.
Questions for the Interviewer
How does the program prepare students for the challenges of the NHS and pre-hospital care environments?
How do you incorporate the latest research and developments in paramedicine into the curriculum?
Are placements tailored to provide experience in both urban and rural settings?
Are there debriefing opportunities after particularly challenging placements?
Are there opportunities to gain experience with specialist areas of paramedicine, like critical care or HART teams, during the course?
