Sample interview questions: Have you ever had to deal with a telemetry patient who exhibited signs of delirium or altered mental status? If so, how did you handle it?
Sample answer:
Handling a Telemetry Patient with Delirium or Altered Mental Status
In my role as a telemetry nurse, I have encountered telemetry patients exhibiting signs of delirium or altered mental status. I approach these situations with the following steps:
1. Assessment:
- Gather subjective data: Review patient history, medications, and recent events that may have contributed to delirium.
- Perform a physical examination: Check vital signs, pupillary response, and neurological status to rule out underlying medical conditions.
2. Stabilization:
- Protect the patient: Ensure a safe environment free from potential hazards.
- Administer oxygen: As delirium can be associated with hypoxia, supplemental oxygen may improve oxygenation and reduce agitation.
- Control agitation: If the patient is agitated, medications such as antipsychotics or benzodiazepines may be administered as prescribed by the physician.
3. Monitoring:
- Closely monitor vital signs and neurological status: Monitor the patient regularly to detect any changes that may indicate a deterioration in condition.
- Use fall precautions: Patients with delirium are at increased risk of falls, so appropriate measures should be implemented.
4. Communication:
- Collaborate with the healthcare team: Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_0_24/Telemetry%20Nurse