Top 10 Questions for General Physician Interview

1. Describe the key evaluation points during a history and physical examination of a patient presenting with lower back pain?

• Pertinent past medical history (e.g., previous back pain, trauma, surgery)
• Physical examination including musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular assessments
• Observation of gait, posture, and spinal alignment
• Assessment of range of motion, flexibility, and muscle strength
• Neurological testing of sensation, reflexes, and motor strength

2. How would you approach a patient with suspected pneumonia, including clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management?

Clinical Presentation

• Fever, chills
• Cough (productive or non-productive)
• Chest pain or pleuritic pain
• Dyspnea, tachypnea

Diagnosis

• Physical examination: Auscultation for crackles, dullness
• Chest X-ray
• Sputum culture and Gram stain

Management

• Antibiotic therapy based on suspected pathogen
• Supportive measures: Oxygen, hydration, pain management
• Consideration of hospital admission for severe cases

3. Discuss the differential diagnosis and investigation of a patient with acute abdomen?

• Gastrointestinal: Appendicitis, cholecystitis, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease
• Genitourinary: Urinary tract infection, pyelonephritis, renal colic
• Gynecological: Ovarian cyst torsion, pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy
• Vascular: Aortic dissection, mesenteric ischemia
• Investigation: Blood tests, abdominal imaging (ultrasound, CT scan), urinalysis

4. How would you manage a patient with hyperglycemia in the emergency setting?

• Assessment: Determine severity, cause (e.g., diabetes, stress)
• Fluids: Intravenous fluids (normal saline or dextrose) to correct dehydration
• Insulin: Insulin therapy (regular or rapid-acting) to lower blood glucose
• Potassium monitoring: Monitor potassium levels as insulin can cause hypokalemia
• Consultation: Consider endocrinology consultation for severe or persistent hyperglycemia

5. Discuss the diagnosis and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP)?

Diagnosis

• Clinical presentation (fever, cough, chest pain, dyspnea)
• Physical examination (auscultation for crackles, dullness)
• Chest X-ray
• Sputum culture and Gram stain

Treatment

• Antibiotic therapy based on empiric coverage
• Supportive care (antipyretics, cough suppressants)
• Oxygen therapy
• Hospitalization for severe cases

6. How would you approach a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)?

• Assessment: Determine severity (PaO2/FiO2 ratio), identify underlying cause
• Oxygen support: Mechanical ventilation (e.g., volume-controlled or pressure-controlled ventilation)
• Fluid management: Diuretics or fluid restriction to reduce lung edema
• Infection control: Antibiotics, ventilator-associated pneumonia prevention
• Supportive care: Nutritional support, electrolyte balance

7. Describe the management of a patient with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD)?

• Bronchodilators: Inhaled beta-agonists, anticholinergics
• Oxygen therapy
• Steroids: Systemic or inhaled corticosteroids
• Antibiotics: If bacterial infection is suspected
• Chest physiotherapy: To improve airway clearance
• Respiratory support: Non-invasive or invasive ventilation if necessary

8. Discuss the role of the general physician in the management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

• Assessment: Diagnosis, monitoring glucose control, and assessing complications
• Education: Patient education on disease management, lifestyle modifications
• Medication management: Prescribing and monitoring anti-diabetic medications
• Lifestyle recommendations: Diet, exercise, and smoking cessation counseling
• Referral: To specialists (e.g., endocrinologists, dieticians) when necessary

9. Describe the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation?

Diagnosis

• Clinical presentation (palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue)
• Electrocardiogram
• Echocardiogram

Management

• Rate control: Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
• Rhythm control: Antiarrhythmic medications
• Anticoagulation: Warfarin or novel oral anticoagulants
• Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, exercise, avoidance of triggers

10. Discuss the management of a patient with hypertensive crisis?

• Assessment: Determine severity, exclude secondary causes
• Initial treatment: Sublingual nifedipine, intravenous labetalol
• Maintenance therapy: Oral antihypertensive medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers)
• Monitoring: Blood pressure monitoring, electrolyte balance
• Referral: To a specialist (e.g., cardiologist) for further evaluation and management

General Physicians are highly trained medical professionals who diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of medical conditions in adults. They provide comprehensive care to patients, from routine check-ups to complex illnesses. Key responsibilities of a General Physician include:

1. Patient assessment and diagnosis

Collecting detailed patient histories, performing physical examinations, and ordering diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of illness.

2. Treatment planning and management

Developing and implementing individualized treatment plans for patients, including medication prescriptions, lifestyle modifications, and referrals to specialists.

3. Patient education and counseling

Providing patients with clear and understandable information about their condition, treatment, and preventive measures.

4. Management of chronic diseases

Monitoring and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease to prevent complications and improve quality of life.

5. Emergency care

Providing immediate medical attention to patients with acute or life-threatening conditions in emergency situations.

6. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals

Working closely with nurses, specialists, and other members of the healthcare team to provide comprehensive patient care.

7. Keeping up-to-date with medical advancements

Continuously staying updated with the latest medical research, guidelines, and technologies to provide the highest quality of care.

Preparing thoroughly for a job interview as a General Physician is crucial to showcase your skills and qualifications effectively. Here are some tips to help you ace the interview:

1. Research the organization

Familiarize yourself with the hospital, clinic, or practice you are applying to. Learn about their mission, values, services, and key achievements.

2. Practice your answers to common interview questions

Prepare thoughtful responses to questions about your experience, skills, and why you are interested in the position. Refer to the job description and key responsibilities to tailor your answers.

3. Highlight your clinical experience

Emphasize your expertise in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of medical conditions. Share specific examples of your successful patient outcomes.

4. Demonstrate your communication and interpersonal skills

Explain how you effectively communicate with patients, build rapport, and provide clear and patient-centered care.

5. Display your commitment to teamwork

Discuss your collaborative experiences with other healthcare professionals and how you contribute to a positive and efficient work environment.

6. Showcase your passion for medicine

Convey your genuine interest in providing high-quality medical care and improving the lives of patients.

7. Dress professionally and arrive on time

First impressions matter. Dress appropriately and punctuality demonstrates respect for the interviewer and the organization.

8. Prepare questions for the interviewer

Asking thoughtful questions about the role, team, or hospital shows your engagement and genuine interest in the opportunity.

9. Follow up after the interview

Send a brief thank-you note to the interviewer. Reiterate your interest in the position and any specific aspects of the interview that you found particularly appealing.