Anesthesia Job Interview Questions to Anticipate

Doctor interviewing a woman

Whether you are an anesthesiologist or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), preparing for a job interview is a worthwhile endeavor. Making a stellar first impression is important and knowing what to expect in your interview can help. Anesthesia job interview questions are much different than typical job interview questions. In addition to answering typical interview questions, your clinical skills and experience will be gauged. Collecting your thoughts ahead of time on how to best represent yourself is key.

What Anesthesia Recruiters Look for in Candidates

Experienced anesthesia recruiters know the best candidates are those who are both clinically excellent and socially adept. Depending on the type of job you are applying for, a skilled recruiter will also attempt to gain an understanding of your work ethic and how you perform independently and as a team member. Your intellect and ability to work under pressure are already proven through your certification as an anesthesia provider—a recruiter simply needs to ensure you are the right fit for the position for which you applied.

Common Questions Asked in Anesthesia Interviews

As you prepare for your interview, contemplate how you will answer questions about your resume or curriculum vitae. For example, you will likely be asked about your recently held positions, your current geographical location or your educational background. Consider anything listed on your resume or curriculum vitae as topics your interviewer will likely bring up. Additionally, know how you will answer questions related to:

  • What attracted you to this job (compensation, location, job duties, etc.)
  • Why you are looking to leave your current position
  • Your clinical skills (neuro, regional, obstetrics, pediatrics, etc.)
  • Your willingness to move
  • Your experience in practicing independently
  • The types of practice models you have worked in
  • Your family and whether or not your spouse is supportive of a job change
  • Your malpractice history or any record blemishes that could affect credentialing, such as a criminal misdemeanor
  • The types of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) you are proficient in using.

How to Answer Tough Questions in an Anesthesia Interview

As your recruiter or interviewer begins developing a better understanding of you and your background, difficult questions may arise. Perhaps you know your answer may preclude you from eligibility for the job or you feel it may hurt your chances of receiving a job offer. Regardless, you should always answer every question truthfully. Honesty is among the most important character qualities in anesthesia providers. Rather than have your management company find out later that you were dishonest, it is better to be transparent upfront.

Questions You Should Never Be Asked in an Anesthesia Interview

As with any employment interview, your anesthesia job interview should have boundaries. Discriminatory questions should never be asked in a job interview. Federal and state laws prevent employers from asking questions unrelated to the job for which they are hiring. Discriminatory interview questions may concern:

  • Your gender or sexual orientation
  • Your marital or family status
  • Your age
  • Your religion
  • Your credit history

Although you may disclose information related to these matters if you so choose, you should resist any unwanted pressure to do so.

Questions to Ask Your Recruiter

Your anesthesia job interview is a great time to clarify any questions you may have about the position or company for which you will be working. Your recruiter should be able to tell you details about scheduling, case types, practice models and compensation. Rest assured that any position with CCI Anesthesia offers job stability and a supportive environment for practicing autonomously. We prioritize ample time away from practice for our providers and want the job you take with us to be your last.

We are actively recruiting CRNAs to work in hospitals and surgery centers across the country. Whether you are interested in a full-time or part-time position, we may have the job you are looking for. View our open job opportunities today or contact us to schedule an appointment to talk with one of our recruiters.