Top 29 General Internist Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Preparing for a general internist interview can be daunting, but having a solid grasp of the most common questions can boost your confidence and readiness. In this blog post, we provide a comprehensive guide to navigating the interview process, complete with example answers and practical tips on how to respond effectively. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, this resource will help you articulate your expertise and stand out as a candidate.
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List of General Internist Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you had to manage a difficult patient? What steps did you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and listen actively to the patient's concerns.
- 2
Acknowledge the patient's feelings and show empathy.
- 3
Clearly communicate your intended approach or treatment plan.
- 4
Involve the patient in decision-making when possible.
- 5
Follow up to ensure the patient's concerns are addressed.
Example Answers
I had a patient who was very agitated about their diagnosis. I listened to their concerns without interrupting, acknowledged their feelings of fear, and explained the next steps in their treatment plan. I made sure to involve them in decision-making regarding their options, and I scheduled a follow-up to check on their progress.
Tell me about a time you worked with a multidisciplinary team. What was your role and how did you contribute?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific project or patient case.
- 2
Clearly explain your role and responsibilities.
- 3
Highlight collaboration and communication with other team members.
- 4
Discuss the outcome and what you learned.
- 5
Keep it concise and relevant to the position.
Example Answers
In my last rotation, I worked on a case of a diabetic patient with multiple complications. My role was to coordinate between the endocrinologist, dietitian, and social worker. I organized weekly meetings to discuss the patient's progress, ensuring everyone was aligned on the care plan. This collaborative approach improved the patient's management and led to a significant reduction in their blood sugar levels over three months.
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Describe an instance where you had to explain a complex medical condition to a patient. How did you ensure they understood?
How to Answer
- 1
Use simple language and avoid jargon
- 2
Break the information into manageable parts
- 3
Use analogies or visual aids if possible
- 4
Ask open-ended questions to gauge understanding
- 5
Summarize key points at the end
Example Answers
I explained diabetes to a patient by comparing it to a car running without enough fuel. I used a diagram to show how insulin works, then asked them to explain back what they understood to confirm clarity.
How do you handle stress during a particularly busy day in your practice?
How to Answer
- 1
Prioritize tasks and tackle the most urgent ones first
- 2
Practice mindfulness techniques to stay focused
- 3
Communicate effectively with your team to delegate responsibilities
- 4
Take short breaks to recharge throughout the day
- 5
Remain flexible and adaptable to changing situations
Example Answers
On busy days, I prioritize my patients by assessing their urgency. I communicate with my team to delegate tasks and ensure everyone is focused on their strengths. I also take brief moments for mindfulness to recenter myself.
Can you provide an example of an ethical dilemma you faced in your practice, and how you resolved it?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific ethical dilemma you encountered.
- 2
Explain your thought process and the options you considered.
- 3
Describe the outcome of your decision and its impact on the patient.
- 4
Reflect on what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Keep it professional and focused on patient care.
Example Answers
In my residency, I had a patient refusing treatment for a severe infection due to previous bad experiences. I respected their autonomy but discussed the risks. After several conversations, we agreed on a treatment plan they were comfortable with, leading to a good outcome.
Describe a time you had to adapt to a significant change in a clinical setting. What did you do?
How to Answer
- 1
Think of a specific change you encountered.
- 2
Describe the situation, your actions, and the outcome clearly.
- 3
Focus on your problem-solving skills and adaptability.
- 4
Use metrics or results if possible to illustrate success.
- 5
Keep the answer concise and relevant to clinical practice.
Example Answers
During my residency, the hospital implemented a new electronic health record system. I took the initiative to attend extra training sessions, helped colleagues with the transition, and streamlined patient charting, which improved our workflow by 20%.
How have you handled constructive criticism from colleagues in the past?
How to Answer
- 1
Acknowledge the feedback with an open mind
- 2
Share a specific example to illustrate your response
- 3
Detail the action you took to apply the feedback
- 4
Highlight the positive outcome from implementing the advice
- 5
Reflect on how it helped you grow as a professional
Example Answers
When I received feedback on my patient communication skills, I took it seriously and asked for specifics. I then practiced those skills in my next patient visits, which improved both my confidence and patient satisfaction scores.
Describe a difficult decision you had to make regarding a patient's treatment. What factors did you consider?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific patient case that was challenging.
- 2
Explain the options you considered and why they were difficult.
- 3
Discuss the factors influencing your decision, such as patient values, evidence-based guidelines, and risks.
- 4
Reflect on the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Stay focused on clinical reasoning and patient-centered care.
Example Answers
In managing a patient with severe hypertension who also had kidney disease, I faced the decision of whether to initiate aggressive treatment or take a more gradual approach. I considered the potential risks of rapid blood pressure reduction, the patient's kidney function, and their preference for a less aggressive approach. Ultimately, I decided to start with lifestyle changes alongside a low-dose medication, which was well-received and led to gradual improvement in their condition.
Technical Interview Questions
What are the key considerations when diagnosing hypertension in a new patient?
How to Answer
- 1
Measure blood pressure in both arms to ensure accuracy
- 2
Consider patient's age, weight, and lifestyle factors
- 3
Review any existing health conditions and medications
- 4
Monitor blood pressure over time for consistency
- 5
Assess for secondary causes if hypertension is suspected
Example Answers
When diagnosing hypertension, I first measure blood pressure in both arms for accuracy. I take into account the patient's age and lifestyle, and I review their current medications to identify any that might affect blood pressure.
Explain how you would manage a patient with multiple chronic conditions requiring polypharmacy.
How to Answer
- 1
Perform a comprehensive medication review to identify all current medications.
- 2
Assess for potential drug interactions and contraindications based on the patient's conditions.
- 3
Simplify regimens where possible to improve adherence, considering combination therapies.
- 4
Engage the patient in shared decision-making about their treatment plan.
- 5
Schedule regular follow-ups to monitor effectiveness and adjust medications as needed.
Example Answers
I would start by thoroughly reviewing the patient's medication list to identify any possible interactions or unnecessary drugs. Then, I would consider combining medications if appropriate and discuss with the patient to ensure their understanding and agreement, followed by regular follow-ups to adjust as necessary.
Don't Just Read General Internist Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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What screening guidelines do you follow for preventive care in adults?
How to Answer
- 1
Familiarize yourself with the current USPSTF guidelines and other relevant organizations like ACOG and CDC
- 2
Tailor your recommendations based on patient age, gender, and risk factors
- 3
Discuss the importance of screenings for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer
- 4
Mention how you inform patients about the benefits and risks of each screening
- 5
Stay updated on changes in guidelines and emerging evidence
Example Answers
I follow the USPSTF guidelines for preventive care, focusing on important screenings based on patient demographics and risk factors. For example, I ensure women have mammograms starting at age 40 and monitor blood pressure regularly for all adults.
What are the latest treatment protocols for managing type 2 diabetes?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay updated with current guidelines from reputable sources like ADA or EASD
- 2
Include new medications and treatment strategies, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors
- 3
Mention lifestyle modifications as integral to management
- 4
Discuss the importance of individualized treatment plans based on patient characteristics
- 5
Highlight the relevance of monitoring and follow-up care in effective management
Example Answers
According to the latest guidelines from the ADA, management of type 2 diabetes includes lifestyle changes and medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors. It's important to tailor treatment to individual patient needs, regularly monitor their blood glucose levels, and adjust the management plan as needed.
What steps do you take to perform a thorough physical examination?
How to Answer
- 1
Begin with a comprehensive patient history to understand their health background.
- 2
Follow a systematic approach, inspecting, palpating, percussing, and auscultating in that order.
- 3
Always ensure the patient is comfortable and has provided informed consent.
- 4
Use appropriate equipment, such as a stethoscope and otoscope, and ensure they are clean.
- 5
Document findings clearly and communicate any abnormalities to the patient.
Example Answers
I start with gathering a detailed medical history to tailor my exam to the patient's needs. Then, I conduct the exam systematically, beginning with a thorough inspection before moving to palpation, percussion, and auscultation, ensuring the patient feels comfortable throughout the process.
What are the important differentials to consider for a patient presenting with cough and fever?
How to Answer
- 1
Start with common infectious causes like pneumonia and bronchitis.
- 2
Consider non-infectious causes such as asthma exacerbation or allergic reactions.
- 3
Always think about atypical infections, especially in specific populations like young children or the elderly.
- 4
Include consideration of viral vs bacterial origins of infection.
- 5
Don't forget about serious conditions like cancer or pulmonary embolism if the presentation warrants.
Example Answers
For a patient presenting with cough and fever, I would first consider pneumonia and acute bronchitis as common causes. Then, I'd rule out asthma exacerbations and check for allergies. It's important to also consider viral infections, and in at-risk patients, think about more serious conditions like tuberculosis or even malignancy.
How do you interpret metabolic panel results, especially in relation to kidney function?
How to Answer
- 1
Review the components of the metabolic panel relevant to kidney function like BUN, creatinine, and electrolytes.
- 2
Understand the normal ranges for BUN and creatinine and how they indicate kidney health.
- 3
Note any abnormalities in potassium and sodium levels as they can signal kidney issues.
- 4
Relate elevated BUN and creatinine levels to possible causes like dehydration or renal impairment.
- 5
Discuss the significance of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) when assessing kidney function.
Example Answers
In interpreting a metabolic panel, I focus on BUN and creatinine levels as primary indicators of kidney function. Normal ranges indicate proper kidney function while elevated levels suggest either dehydration or potential renal failure. I also consider the electrolytes, as abnormalities can further indicate issues in kidney function.
What is your approach to diagnosing and managing chronic pain in your patients?
How to Answer
- 1
Start by thoroughly assessing the patient's history and nature of pain.
- 2
Use a multidisciplinary approach including medication, physical therapy, and counseling.
- 3
Set realistic goals and expectations for pain management.
- 4
Regularly evaluate pain levels and treatment effectiveness with the patient.
- 5
Educate the patient about their condition and involve them in the management plan.
Example Answers
My approach begins with a detailed assessment of the patient's pain history and any contributing factors. I collaborate with physical therapists and use medications as needed. I emphasize setting realistic goals and regularly check in with my patients about their progress.
What unique challenges do you face when providing care through telemedicine?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific technical issues like connectivity and platform usability
- 2
Discuss challenges in building rapport without face-to-face interaction
- 3
Mention limitations in conducting physical examinations remotely
- 4
Talk about managing patient privacy and security in a digital environment
- 5
Reflect on disparities in patient access to technology and internet
Example Answers
One challenge I face is technical issues such as poor internet connectivity, which can disrupt conversations and affect the quality of care. Additionally, building rapport can be harder without face-to-face interaction, making it crucial to be more expressive verbally.
How do you approach care coordination for patients with chronic conditions?
How to Answer
- 1
Establish a clear communication plan with the patient and their family.
- 2
Use interdisciplinary teams to manage complex care needs effectively.
- 3
Leverage technology for tracking patient progress and sharing information.
- 4
Educate patients on their conditions and self-management strategies.
- 5
Follow up regularly to assess the effectiveness of the care plan.
Example Answers
I prioritize clear communication with my patients and their families to ensure everyone understands the care plan. I also work closely with a team of specialists to coordinate care effectively, utilizing technology for monitoring and adjustments as needed. Finally, I believe in empowering patients through education about their conditions.
Don't Just Read General Internist Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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Situational Interview Questions
If a patient does not follow up for a recommended test, how would you approach the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Ask open-ended questions to understand their reasons for not following up
- 2
Provide reassurance and emphasize the importance of the test for their health
- 3
Explore any barriers they might face, such as financial or logistical issues
- 4
Offer alternatives or solutions, like scheduling the test with them
- 5
Follow up with a reminder or check-in to see if they have completed the test
Example Answers
I would start by asking the patient why they haven’t followed up on the test. I want to understand if there are any barriers or concerns. Then, I would explain the importance of the test and offer to help them address any issues they might have.
A patient presents with acute chest pain. What is your immediate course of action?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the patient's vital signs first to ensure stability.
- 2
Obtain a thorough history to identify risk factors or previous conditions related to chest pain.
- 3
Perform a physical exam focusing on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
- 4
Order an ECG immediately to rule out any acute cardiac events.
- 5
Prepare to provide oxygen if the patient is hypoxic or in distress.
Example Answers
First, I would check the patient's vital signs to assess their condition. Then, I would take a detailed history to understand the nature of the chest pain. An immediate ECG would follow to rule out any cardiac issues.
Don't Just Read General Internist Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your General Internist interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
How would you handle a situation where a patient refuses a necessary treatment?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen to the patient's concerns and reasons for refusal
- 2
Provide clear and concise information about the benefits and risks of treatment
- 3
Explore alternatives that may be acceptable to the patient
- 4
Encourage questions to ensure understanding
- 5
Document the conversation and patient’s refusal
Example Answers
I would first listen to the patient's reasons for refusing treatment to understand their perspective. Then, I would clearly explain the risks of not proceeding with the treatment, as well as the benefits it could provide. I would also offer possible alternatives and invite any questions they might have to ensure they fully understand the situation.
If two team members disagree on a patient’s treatment plan, how would you mediate the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen to both team members to understand their perspectives.
- 2
Encourage open communication and respect for each other's opinions.
- 3
Facilitate a discussion focusing on patient outcomes and evidence-based practices.
- 4
Seek common ground and collaborate on a unified approach.
- 5
If necessary, involve a senior physician for additional insight.
Example Answers
I would start by listening to both team members to fully understand their viewpoints. I’d then encourage them to discuss their reasoning openly, ensuring that we focus on the best outcome for the patient. If we can’t reach a consensus, I would suggest involving a senior physician for further guidance.
What would you do if you realized you neglected to follow up with a patient for test results?
How to Answer
- 1
Acknowledge the mistake without deflecting responsibility
- 2
Express immediate action to contact the patient
- 3
Explain how you would inform the patient of the results transparently
- 4
Discuss measures you would implement to prevent this in the future
- 5
Convey your commitment to patient care and safety
Example Answers
I would first acknowledge my oversight and immediately reach out to the patient to discuss their test results. I would be upfront about the delay and provide any necessary information. To prevent this from happening again, I would implement a follow-up reminder system to ensure all patients are contacted timely.
If you notice a patient is disengaged during the consultation, how would you encourage their participation?
How to Answer
- 1
Ask open-ended questions to invite discussion
- 2
Use reflective listening to show you value their input
- 3
Identify barriers to engagement and address them directly
- 4
Encourage questions and make the patient feel comfortable
- 5
Provide information in a clear and relatable manner
Example Answers
I would start by asking open-ended questions like, 'What concerns do you have about your health?' to encourage them to share their thoughts.
In case of a medical emergency in the outpatient clinic, what steps would you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and assess the situation quickly
- 2
Call for help or alert other staff members immediately
- 3
Ensure the patient's safety and privacy
- 4
Provide appropriate first aid or emergency care
- 5
Document the incident and follow up with necessary procedures
Example Answers
First, I would remain calm and quickly assess the patient's condition. Then, I would call for help from other staff and secure the area to ensure patient privacy. I would provide necessary first aid and monitor the patient until help arrives. Finally, I would document everything that happened for record-keeping.
How would you allocate resources when faced with a high volume of patients?
How to Answer
- 1
Prioritize based on patient acuity and needs
- 2
Utilize support staff effectively for triage and administrative tasks
- 3
Implement time management strategies for consultations
- 4
Communicate clearly with patients about wait times and care processes
- 5
Consider utilizing telemedicine options for follow-up or less complex cases
Example Answers
I would prioritize patients based on their medical urgency, ensuring that the most critically ill are seen first. I would also delegate tasks to nursing staff to handle basic assessments, allowing me to focus on more complex cases.
What would you do if a patient is hesitant to begin a new medication that you believe is essential?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen to the patient's concerns and motivations regarding the medication.
- 2
Educate the patient on the benefits of the medication and the potential risks of not taking it.
- 3
Discuss possible side effects and reassure them about monitoring.
- 4
Explore alternative options or compromises that might reduce their hesitation.
- 5
Build a trusting relationship to encourage open communication in the future.
Example Answers
I would first listen to the patient's concerns and understand their hesitations. Then, I would explain the importance of the medication, how it can help them, and outline any side effects clearly. Finally, I would work with them to find a solution that makes them feel comfortable, possibly through a lower dose or a different medication.
How would you ensure effective communication among different specialists involved in a patient's care?
How to Answer
- 1
Establish regular interdisciplinary meetings to discuss patient cases
- 2
Use a shared electronic health record system for updates and notes
- 3
Encourage open communication by fostering relationships with specialists
- 4
Create clear protocols for referrals and follow-ups among teams
- 5
Utilize case managers or coordinators to facilitate communication and collaboration
Example Answers
I would set up regular interdisciplinary meetings where specialists can discuss cases and align on treatment plans, fostering a team approach.
Don't Just Read General Internist Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your General Internist interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
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Used by hundreds of successful candidates
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