Interview questions Flashcards
(57 cards)
What are the goals and values of the UHL trust?
We have four primary goals:
high-quality care for all,
being a great place to work,
partnerships for impact, and
research and education excellence
Values:
we are compassionate,
we are proud,
we are inclusive, and
we are one team
How do you handle emergency situations in the interventional radiology suite?
https://workbred.co.uk/career/interventional-radiographer?page=interview
What they want to know is how you stay calm, communicate clearly, and act quickly to keep the patient safe during emergencies. You need to explain that you assess the situation promptly, coordinate with your team to assign roles, and follow established protocols using the right emergency equipment to manage the issue effectively.
Example: In emergency situations, I stay calm and focus on clear communication with the team to ensure everyone knows their role. I quickly evaluate the patient’s condition to prioritise care, and rely on established protocols to guide my actions.
I stay calm and follow the forseeable incident plan
If possible and safe to do so, STOP THE PROCEDURE AND TURN OFF THE X-RAYS to prevent accidental exposure.
- Station a member of staff outside the doors to guide the emergency team safely into the room.
- Lower the table and move the Image Intensifier away from the patient to allow the emergency team access, ensure crash trolley is brought in.
- Continue as a normal emergency situation.
IN THE EVENT THAT THE PROCEDURE CANNOT BE STOPPED AND FLUOROSCOPY NEEDS TO CONTINUE
· If the situation occurs on call and requires the arrest team, the procedure must be halted long enough to allow the team in as necessary, as there will not be enough members of Radiology staff to adhere to the following plan.
- If possible, Radiology staff should attach defibrillator pads as they are more aware of radiation safety.
- If available, a second radiographer should be tasked with OBSERVING RADIATION SAFETY PRACTICE.
- Station a staff member at each door into the room to prevent unprotected entry and direct the emergency team promptly to the PPE.
- Have a staff member assisting members of the emergency team with donning of lead PPE before letting them in to the room.
- Ensure that the emergency team members are ALL aware that the PROCEDURE IS ONGOING and may need to continue while they make their assessments.
- Staff handing out PPE to give a very brief concise run down of Local Rules for example state loudly at the entrance to the room, to all entering staff members…“ X-RAYS ARE STILL BEING PRODUCED; IF YOU PLACE YOUR HANDS UNDER THE XRAY MACHINE YOU MAY BE IRRADIATED. STAY BACK FROM THE PATIENT UNLESS YOU ARE NEEDED CLOSE BY. IF YOU NEED TO PUT YOUR HANDS UNDER THE MACHINE, INFORM THE RADIOLOGIST FIRST SO THEY CAN STOP SCREENING IF SAFE TO DO SO”
- If Resus Team hands have been screened unavoidably, please note the name and designation of the staff member and include this information on CRIS and on the DATIX form.
- Radiographers should note the screening factors and DAP at the beginning of the emergency call and the final DAP so that dose estimates can be produced if necessary.
- At the end of the emergency, get names and designations of all emergency team members and record on CRIS.
- Complete DATIX form.
What protocols do you follow to ensure patient safety during interventional procedures?
Employers ask this question to ensure you prioritize patient safety and strictly follow protocols that minimize risks during procedures. You need to say that you adhere to radiation safety guidelines, perform thorough pre-procedure assessments like checking allergies and coagulation status, and actively communicate with the healthcare team throughout the process.
Example: In interventional radiology, I always start by verifying patient identity and reviewing their medical history to anticipate any risks. Ensuring blood tests have been done and whether they have had their pre anti-Anticoagulant
Throughout the procedure, I use ALARP principle and collimation to keep the patients dose as low as possible.
Post-procedure, I ensure proper care instructions are given and observe the patient’s recovery. This teamwork and attention to detail help maintain a safe environment at every stage.
Can you explain the process of setting up and calibrating interventional radiology equipment?
Questions like this assess your technical knowledge and attention to detail, crucial for patient safety and image accuracy. You need to explain the steps you take to prepare the equipment, including checking safety protocols, performing calibration tests, and ensuring everything functions correctly before procedures.
Example: Setting up interventional radiology equipment begins with thorough checks of all components, ensuring everything is clean and functioning. Calibration involves verifying image quality and radiation dose settings to match protocols, often using phantoms for accuracy. For example, before a procedure, I confirm the fluoroscopy machine’s alignment to provide clear images while keeping patient exposure low. This careful preparation supports both safety and effective intervention.
How do you ensure that patients are comfortable and informed before, during, and after procedures?
Questions like this assess your ability to communicate effectively and prioritize patient care throughout all stages of a procedure. You need to say that you explain each step clearly before starting, regularly check on the patient’s comfort during the procedure, and provide thorough aftercare instructions to support their recovery.
Example: Before the procedure, I take time to explain what will happen and answer any questions, helping patients feel at ease. During, I keep a close eye on their comfort, making adjustments as needed. Afterward, I offer clear guidance on what to expect and how to care for themselves, often checking in to make sure they’re managing well. For example, reassuring a nervous patient throughout really helps build trust and reduce anxiety.
What imaging modalities are you proficient in, and how do you ensure image quality?
Interviewers ask this question to assess your technical skills and commitment to patient safety through high-quality imaging. You need to clearly state the imaging modalities you are skilled in and briefly explain your approach to maintaining image quality, such as following protocols and performing regular equipment checks.
Example: I’m experienced with fluoroscopy, CT. To maintain high image quality, I focus on correct equipment calibration and patient positioning, tailoring settings to each case. For example, during vascular procedures, adjusting contrast and exposure ensures clear visuals while minimizing dose. This careful attention helps provide accurate guidance and supports better patient outcomes.
How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple patients and procedures?
This interview question assesses your ability to manage competing demands by prioritizing patient care and procedures effectively. You need to explain that you evaluate clinical urgency first, organize your schedule to optimize time, and maintain clear communication with your team to adjust priorities as needed.
Example: When managing multiple patients and procedures, I start by quickly evaluating who needs immediate attention based on their condition. I organize my schedule to allow flexibility for unexpected changes, ensuring urgent cases are prioritized without neglecting others. Clear communication with the team is key—I regularly check in to coordinate timing and resources. For example, during busy shifts, this approach helps keep everything running smoothly and patients safe.
What methods do you use to ensure clear and accurate documentation of procedures?
What they want to understand is how you maintain patient safety and legal compliance by keeping precise records. You need to explain that you systematically record every step during procedures using standardized forms and double-check entries for accuracy.
Example: To ensure clear and accurate documentation, I focus on real-time note-taking during procedures, which helps keep details precise. I double-check patient information and procedure specifics immediately afterward to avoid errors. For example, during a busy angiography, you confirmed contrast type and dosage with the team before recording, ensuring clarity and consistency in the patient’s records. This approach supports effective communication and safe patient care.
Can you describe a time when you had to work closely with a multidisciplinary team?
Interviewers ask this question to see how well you collaborate and communicate with different healthcare professionals, which is crucial in interventional radiography for patient safety and effective treatment. You need to describe a specific situation where you coordinated with various team members, highlighting your communication skills and teamwork to achieve a positive patient outcome.
Example: As a student, I worked alongside nurses, doctors and paramedics during a patient crash event. Before the patient arrived the nurses communicated what they needed from me before the patient arrives so everyone knew their role, I was to scribe and write everything that happens and all the information and when medications are given. I discussed with the paramedics what was given and wrote it down. We then all had a debrief afterwards to discuss what went well and what could have gone better.
Another time, working in ED, doing portable x-rays, Ill get help from nurses and and also raise any concerns I have about an x-ray e.g. PTX. Its important to be confident in those moments so that if I needed to speak up and say this is not right so that effective care can be given as soon as possible.
How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in interventional radiology technology?
What they want to know is that you are committed to continuous learning and applying new knowledge to improve patient care. You should say you stay updated by reading professional journals, applying new techniques in your practice, and collaborating with colleagues in multidisciplinary teams.
Example: I make it a point to regularly read journals and attend workshops to keep up with emerging techniques. When I learn something new, I try to incorporate it into my daily practice to enhance patient care. I also find that discussing cases with colleagues and joining professional groups helps me stay connected to the latest developments and practical insights in interventional radiology.
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find an example advancement
What strategies do you use to stay calm and focused during complex procedures?
Hiring managers ask this question to see how you handle pressure and ensure patient safety during complex procedures. You need to explain that you use controlled breathing to stay calm, follow a clear plan or checklist to prioritize tasks, and actively communicate with your team to collaborate effectively.
Example: During complex procedures, I keep calm by focusing on one step at a time, ensuring the most urgent tasks get my attention first. I find clear communication with the team really helps—checking in and confirming details prevents mistakes and lets us work smoothly together. Staying composed comes from trusting my training and experience, which allows me to adapt quickly if something unexpected happens.
Also having the time to debrief afterwards to ensure that issues can be highlighted and addressed to support my future learning.
Can you discuss your experience with training or mentoring junior staff or students?
Interviewers ask this question to assess your leadership skills and your ability to support team development. You need to explain how you have guided or taught others, highlighting your communication and patience.
Example: In my current role, I often support students teaching them positioning techniques and giving support doing mock assessments with them. With junior staff I go through the introduction booklet with them and showing them practical things such as how to do the crash cart check. I also published my article about students perceptions on AI, its always been important to me to support those around me.
Can you describe your experience with post-procedure care and follow-up for patients?
This question helps assess your knowledge of patient safety and continuity of care after interventions. You need to explain how you monitor patients’ vital signs and symptoms, communicate recovery instructions clearly, and document all observations accurately to ensure effective follow-up.
Example:
After procedure care, I give care instructions to the patient, e.g bed rest for 2 hours and then sit up for 2 hours etc, and also hang this information over to nurses on the ward if needed. remind them of the infection risk and if they have concerns they can go GP or ED. check that the suture site is not bleeding, and document everything.
What steps do you take to minimize patient anxiety and discomfort during procedures?
Interviewers ask this question to see how you prioritize patient care and manage their emotional and physical well-being during stressful procedures. You need to say that you communicate clearly, provide reassurance, and use techniques like positioning and sedation to keep the patient comfortable and calm.
Example: I focus on clear communication, explaining the procedure in a calm and reassuring way to help patients feel informed and safe. I pay attention to their comfort throughout, adjusting positioning or offering breaks if needed. For example, with nervous patients, I take a moment to listen to their concerns, which helps build trust and ease their anxiety during the procedure.
Ive worked in fluoroscopy with children so and have used distraction techniques such as singing and dancing, and also playing music and video to make it more easy for the children.
How do you approach problem-solving when faced with unexpected challenges in the interventional suite?
Questions like this assess your ability to stay calm, think critically, and act decisively under pressure to ensure patient safety and procedure success. You need to explain how you quickly identify the problem, adapt your approach to solve it effectively, and follow up by documenting the incident to improve future practice.
Example: When unexpected challenges arise in the interventional suite, I stay calm and quickly assess the situation to understand what’s causing the issue. I then collaborate with the team to adjust our approach or equipment as needed to keep the procedure safe and effective. Afterward, I review what happened to identify improvements, ensuring we’re better prepared if similar situations occur in the future.
For example, in ED, once the detector just died without any warnings during an exposure. The image was loss but I knew it would be on the system somewhere but just not able to send it to PACS. I let the ED doctor know what happened, and I started troubleshooting the machine. I managed to get the image back but it was poor quality so even more troubleshooting and I fixed that. No one else in the department knew how to fix it and even told me to give up but I didnt and managed to fix the issue. I now like to make it a point to teach new starters the issue I had so if it happens to them, they know what to do.
Can you describe the different types of interventional radiology procedures you have experience with?
Example: I’ve experienced on a range of interventional radiology procedures, from angioplasty and stent placements to biopsy and embolization. I’m comfortable managing patient care throughout, ensuring comfort and safety.
I also have experience with imaging equipment like fluoroscopy usually barium meals.
Can you discuss a challenging case you have handled in interventional radiology?
Hiring managers ask this to assess your clinical judgment, technical skills, and ability to handle pressure in complex cases. You need to clearly describe the patient’s condition, explain the procedures and imaging techniques you used, and reflect on the outcome and lessons learned.
Example: there was a lady who came to IR for a GID, she had throat cancer so thats why she needed it. She found the case very painful, and the consultant radiologist was training a new doctors, and was not speaking very appropriately in front of the patient during a procedure, e.g he was saying things like yours hands are useless etc, but he was letting that doctor guide the needle.
Nurses in the room were comforting her and I was stood next to the radiographer as a first year radiography student trying to learn the equipment.
After the procedure, I sat with the patient whilst waiting for the porter to fetch her, I didnt have to wait with her but I wanted to, to comfort her. She started telling me very emotional things, and she stated she wanted to kill herself. I tried my best to comfort her. When the porter and her nurse came, I pulled the nurse aside and told the nurse my worries about the patient’s mental health.
I also regret not speaking up and not speaking to the radiologist after the case and stating how it was not okay.
How do you handle equipment malfunctions during a procedure?
This question assesses your ability to remain calm and problem-solve under pressure, ensuring patient safety and procedure continuity. In your answer, emphasize quickly identifying the issue, following protocols to troubleshoot or switch equipment, and communicating clearly with the team to minimize risks.
Example: If equipment malfunctions during a procedure, I stay calm and quickly assess the situation to minimise disruption. I communicate clearly with the team to ensure patient safety and consider alternative approaches if needed.
If the equipment was completely not working I would help coordinated moving into another suite ensuring patient is safe to do that of course. I would have to call for help as well.
Can you describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a problem during a procedure?
Hiring managers ask this question to see how you handle unexpected challenges and ensure patient safety under pressure. You need to explain the problem clearly, describe the steps you took to identify and fix it, and highlight how you stayed calm and focused to successfully complete the procedure.
Example: During a procedure, the imaging system unexpectedly froze, delaying progress. I calmly alerted the team while quickly restarting the equipment to minimise downtime. Meanwhile, I kept the patient informed to ease their concerns. After resolving the issue, we resumed smoothly. This experience reinforced the importance of staying composed and adaptable when unforeseen challenges arise.
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I would check set up of equipment and whether it is on the correct settings. I would ask coworkers for help also in the moment. I would explain to the radiologist what is happening and that im trying to fix it.
Can you describe a time when you had to manage a difficult patient or family member?
What they want to understand is how you handle stress and communicate effectively under pressure. You need to explain the situation briefly, how you stayed calm, listened carefully, and found a solution that reassured the patient or family member.
Example: In one case, a patient’s family was understandably worried about a complex procedure. I took time to listen carefully and clearly explained each step, addressing their concerns calmly. This helped to ease their anxiety and build trust. By showing empathy and maintaining open communication, we worked together to ensure the patient felt supported throughout the process.
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Can you provide an example of how you have improved a process or protocol in your previous role?
Questions like this assess your problem-solving skills and ability to improve patient care efficiency. You need to clearly describe a specific issue you identified, the steps you took to resolve it, and the positive results your actions achieved.
Example: In my previous role, I noticed delays in patient prep were affecting procedure start times. I worked with the team to streamline communication between nursing and radiology, introducing a checklist to ensure all necessary steps were completed before patients arrived. This simple change reduced waiting times and improved overall workflow, making the department more efficient and enhancing patient experience.
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Can you discuss your approach to obtaining informed consent from patients?
This interview question assesses your ability to communicate effectively and ethically with patients about their care. You need to explain how you clearly describe the procedure and risks in simple terms, actively listen to patient concerns, encourage questions, and ensure documented, voluntary consent before proceeding.
Example: When obtaining consent, I make sure to explain the procedure and any risks in simple terms, ensuring the patient feels comfortable asking questions. I listen carefully to their concerns and address them honestly. For example, I once had a patient worried about radiation exposure, so I took extra time to clarify and reassure them. I always record the discussion thoroughly, confirming they agree without any pressure.
How do you handle patient confidentiality and privacy concerns?
Interviewers ask this question to assess your understanding of the legal and ethical importance of patient confidentiality and how you apply it practically. You need to explain that you follow laws like the Data Protection Act and NHS policies, take steps to keep information private in clinical settings, and know when and how to responsibly breach confidentiality if required, such as in safeguarding situations.
Example: I always keep patient confidentiality at the forefront, following NHS guidelines and the Data Protection Act closely. In practice, this means securing records, speaking discreetly, and ensuring imaging results are shared only with authorized staff. If a situation arises where confidentiality might need to be broken, such as safeguarding concerns, I handle it sensitively and escalate appropriately, balancing patient trust with safety responsibilities.
How do you ensure effective communication with the radiology team and other healthcare professionals?
Questions like this assess your ability to collaborate and maintain patient safety through clear communication. You need to say that you communicate clearly and concisely, listen actively to feedback, and ensure information is well documented and shared with the team.
Example: I make it a point to speak clearly and check that everyone’s on the same page, whether it’s during a busy procedure or a quick handover. I also listen carefully to colleagues’ concerns and suggestions, which helps build trust and improve patient care. Keeping accurate records means that vital information is always accessible, ensuring smooth collaboration across the team.
