Essential Outline: 8 Key Points for What to Say in a Board of Nursing Interview

Outline for What to Say in a Board of Nursing Interview

Introduction to Board of Nursing Interviews/Hearing

Navigating a board of nursing interview or hearing can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can approach it confidently. Understanding what to expect and how to articulate your responses can make a significant difference in the outcome.

Understanding the Purpose of the Board of Nursing

The Board of Nursing plays a crucial role in maintaining standards and protecting public health. The Board’s primary duty is to protect the public, not to advocate for nurses. The Board oversees nursing practices, ensures compliance with laws, rules, and regulations, and handles complaints against nurses. Nurses might be called to appear for various reasons, including misconduct, malpractice, or violation of nursing regulations.

Preparation for the Interview/Hearing

Some Boards of Nursing initiate cases by having a trained investigator reach out to the nurse to set up an interview. These investigators, often not Board staff, will have access to all relevant evidence, including medical records. They possess subpoena power and typically have already reviewed medical records, hospital policies, procedures, the nurse’s employment file, and witness statements. They may also subpoena employment files from previous employers.

Preparation is key to a successful nursing board interview.  At Expert Nurse Consultants, a Nurse Advocate works with the nurse to prepare for the interview. All available evidence is reviewed, although it is uncommon to be provided with Discovery at this phase. The nurse will rehearse how to behave during the interview and how to answer questions politely and professionally. All the evidence-based research supporting the nurse’s defense will be reviewed, and the nurse will be made comfortable presenting this material.

How to Respond to Questions Effectively

When responding at an interview, maintain a calm and professional demeanor. Honesty is paramount; provide clear and concise answers without embellishing or downplaying the facts. It’s important to show accountability and a willingness to learn from the incident. The nurse can also use the interview to gather information about the allegations and the evidence supporting them. The nurse is free to ask questions.

At the interview stage, nurses often have to assume and guess the Board’s allegations due to their broad and vague nature. The nurse may not have had the opportunity to review medical records or other evidence, such as Pyxis records or policies and procedures. This can make the interview feel overwhelming, as the nurse might not know the details of the allegations against them. Even with preparation, the nurse may have to face the interview without complete information. However, following certain interview tips can help the process go smoothly.

Tip 1: Never Guess

Allegations may involve events that occurred months prior, and memory is fallible. It is crucial to avoid guessing or assuming answers. If the nurse does not recall the event with 100% certainty, they should respond with something like: “I am fully cooperative. However, to protect my defense, I cannot answer from memory alone. I need to review the medical records and evidence before making an informed reply to your questions.”

Tip 2: Answer Only “Yes” or “No” Where You Can

It is essential not to talk too much. Over-talking can lead to statements that might be used against the nurse in the future. To avoid this, answer with “yes” or “no” whenever the question allows and then stop. Do not fill in pauses or feel the need to elaborate.

Tip 3: Answer Only the Question Asked

Listen carefully to each question. After the investigator completes their question, answer only what was asked. Resist the temptation to add explanations or qualifiers. Simply answer the question. If you have a key defense, such as being occupied with a critically ill patient at the time of the alleged incident, include that defense wherever relevant. Repetition of succinct and critical defense points is effective.

Common Questions Asked in Board of Nursing Hearing

During the interview, you will face questions about your background, experience, and the incident in question. Remember that the only question the Board of Nursing is interested in is one of, did you do what is alleged? They are not interested in hearing blame shifting or mitigating circumstances that the nurse had the duty to advocate to change or to access the chain of command for. The interview may be probing and the nurse must remember to remain calm and not become defensive. Typical questions might include:

• Can you explain your nursing background and experience?
• What advanced Nursing Education have you obtained?
• Can you take me through the steps of what happened that shift with patient “A”? (Then expect follow up questions.)
• Have you ever taken care of a patient like patient “A” before?
• Did you access your chain of command for additional help?
• What would you do differently if you had a chance to it over?
• How have you addressed or rectified the situation since it occurred?

6 Inspiring Guidance for Nurses: Understanding the Journey to an Administrative Hearing

Important Things to Communicate in Your Hearing

During your hearing, emphasize your commitment to ethical nursing practice. Demonstrate accountability by acknowledging any mistakes and explaining the steps you’ve taken to prevent future occurrences. The Board of Nursing expressly looks for remorse and a willingness to learn from mistakes. They look poorly on an inability to take accountability or a tendency to shift blame. Express your dedication to continuing education and improving your nursing skills. Be genuine and be yourself, you are a nurse you can do this!

Dress Code and Etiquette for the Hearing

Your appearance and behavior during the interview are crucial. Dress professionally, opting for conservative attire. Be punctual, respectful, and courteous throughout the proceedings, as this will reflect your professionalism and respect for the board’s authority.

The Outcome of the Interview

After the Interview is complete the investigator will formulate opinions as to recommended disciplinary action for the Board of Nursing to consider. The Investigator will write a report including all of their findings in reviewing the evidence, talking with witnesses, reading statements and based on your interview answers and demeanor. The Investigator’s report will go forward to the Board of Nursing for a decision as to what further action to take. It may take several months before the nurse hears from the Nursing Board as to their decision.

Nurse Interview Tips: How to Prepare & Common Questions

FAQs

Conclusion

Facing a board of nursing interview is a serious matter that requires careful preparation and a thoughtful approach. By understanding the process, preparing your case diligently, and communicating effectively, you can navigate the hearing with confidence. Remember to seek expert advice, maintain professionalism, and demonstrate your commitment to ethical nursing practice. This proactive approach will help you present your case effectively and work towards a favorable outcome