The trick of acing an STNA interview is not to worry too much. The interview may decide your employment future but you do not need to bank on it for happiness! Think of it as an experience – prepare for it thoroughly and then let your good instincts take over.
A set of interview questions and answers for an STNA (state-tested nurse’s aide) position is given below:
STNA Interview Questions and Answers
1. Why did you take up nursing as a profession?
For me, nursing is not just a profession. I have always been great with people suffering from diseases and disabilities, so nursing just seemed to be my true calling. I like working with patients and providing them with the comfort and care that they require in order to recover from their illnesses and conditions.
2. What do you know about chronic illnesses?
These days when most people lead highly stressful lives and eat unhealthy food, chronic illnesses are increasing much more than they ever have. I have had some exposure to patients suffering from chronic diseases such as SLE, MS, and Pemphigus.
3. How do you keep yourself emotionally disconnected from the problems and limitations of your patients?
While emotionally distancing yourself from patients’ medical issues is difficult, it is something that I have been highly trained to do. After years of nursing training and experience in this capacity, I can be compassionate with my patients, while maintaining a healthy emotional distance.
4. What skills does one need to be able to work successfully as an STNA?
An STNA has to be very patient. Handling emotional outbursts and family drama is all part of the work of an STNA. Additionally, one has to possess exceptional organizational skills, deep knowledge of ailments and medication, expertise in administering medication, and great insight into providing patient education and counseling.
5. How do you feel about assisting patients with their personal needs?
Providing support to patients who cannot manage simple personal tasks because of an illness is part of the territory of working as an STNA. It is all a “mind over matter” thing for me.
6. As an STNA, what have been your primary duties in the past?
While working as an STNA, I have been assigned to provide personal care to patients, along with monitoring and recording their vitals, evaluating their conditions, ensuring their comfort, administering medication, and providing emergency services when required.