Top 10 Questions for General Practice Interview

1. How would you approach a patient presenting with a new-onset rash?

– Obtain a detailed history: including the onset, duration, characteristics of the rash, associated symptoms, and any potential triggers or exposures. – Perform a comprehensive physical examination: to assess the distribution, morphology, and any other relevant findings. – Consider differential diagnoses: based on the history and examination findings, such as infections (e.g., viral exanthems, bacterial infections), allergic reactions, autoimmune conditions, or drug eruptions. – Order appropriate investigations: such as blood tests, skin biopsies, or patch testing, to further narrow down the diagnosis and guide treatment. – Provide timely and appropriate treatment: based on the underlying cause, which may include topical or systemic medications, lifestyle modifications, or referral to a specialist if necessary.

2. Discuss your experience in managing patients with chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD.

Management of Asthma

• Assess and monitor asthma severity
• Develop and implement an asthma action plan
• Prescribe and educate on the use of inhalers and other medications
• Provide lifestyle advice and smoking cessation counseling
• Collaborate with specialists if necessary

Management of COPD

• Diagnose and assess COPD severity
• Prescribe and monitor bronchodilators and other medications
• Provide smoking cessation counseling and support
• Manage comorbidities and exacerbations
• Consider referral for pulmonary rehabilitation or other specialist care

3. How would you manage a patient with suspected sepsis?

– Recognize the signs and symptoms: including fever, chills, hypotension, tachycardia, altered mental status, and elevated inflammatory markers. – Promptly initiate resuscitation: with intravenous fluids, oxygen, and antibiotics. – Identify and treat the underlying source of infection: through blood cultures, imaging studies, and other investigations. – Monitor the patient closely: for clinical improvement or deterioration, and adjust treatment accordingly. – Consult with specialists: such as infectious disease physicians or intensivists, if necessary.

4. What are the key principles of effective communication in a clinical setting?

– Establish a rapport: Build a trusting and respectful relationship with the patient. – Active listening: Pay attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues, and demonstrate understanding. – Clear and concise language: Use language that is appropriate for the patient’s level of understanding, avoiding jargon or technical terms. – Cultural sensitivity: Be aware of cultural differences and beliefs that may influence communication. – Empathy and compassion: Show understanding and support for the patient’s concerns and emotions.

5. Describe your experience in conducting physical examinations.

– General examination: Assess vital signs, overall appearance, and any signs of distress or abnormalities. – Head and neck: Examine the eyes, ears, nose, throat, mouth, and lymph nodes. – Respiratory: Auscultate the lungs, assess breathing patterns, and check for wheezes or crackles. – Cardiovascular: Perform cardiac auscultation, check for murmurs or arrhythmias, and assess pulses. – Abdomen: Palpate for masses, tenderness, or organomegaly, and auscultate for bowel sounds. – Genitourinary: Perform a genital exam if indicated, and check for any abnormalities or signs of infection. – Musculoskeletal: Examine joints for range of motion, stability, and tenderness, and check for any fractures or dislocations. – Neurological: Assess mental status, reflexes, and cranial nerves.

6. Discuss your approach to managing patients with mental health conditions.

– Establish a therapeutic relationship: Build trust and create a safe and supportive environment. – Comprehensive assessment: Conduct a thorough psychiatric history, mental status examination, and consider relevant investigations. – Develop a treatment plan: Collaborate with the patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. – Monitor and adjust treatment: Regularly assess the patient’s progress and adjust treatment as needed. – Involve support systems: Encourage the patient to involve family, friends, or support groups in their care.

7. How would you approach a patient with suspected substance use disorder?

– Non-judgmental approach: Create a safe and supportive environment, avoiding judgment or confrontation. – Motivational interviewing: Engage the patient in discussions about their substance use, exploring their motivations and ambivalence towards change. – Assessment and diagnosis: Evaluate the severity of the substance use disorder and identify any co-occurring mental health conditions. – Treatment options: Discuss various treatment options, including detoxification, medication, psychotherapy, and support groups. – Referral and collaboration: If necessary, refer the patient to specialized addiction services or collaborate with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive care.

8. Discuss your experience in performing minor surgical procedures.

– Wound repair: Suture or staple wounds, manage lacerations, and remove foreign bodies. – Abscess drainage: Drain and treat localized infections. – Excisional biopsy: Remove suspicious skin lesions for diagnostic purposes. – Wart removal: Use various methods such as liquid nitrogen cryotherapy or electrocautery to remove warts. – Joint injections: Administer injections for pain management or to treat conditions like osteoarthritis.

9. How would you manage a patient with a complex medical history and multiple medications?

– Comprehensive medication review: Review all current medications, including doses, indications, and potential interactions. – Medication reconciliation: Ensure accuracy of medication list, identify any discrepancies or omissions, and reconcile medications across different settings. – Optimization of therapy: Adjust medications as needed, consider deprescribing if appropriate, and address adherence issues. – Patient education: Provide clear instructions on medication administration, side effects, and precautions. – Collaboration with specialists: Consult with other healthcare professionals, such as pharmacists or geriatricians, for specialized advice and support.

10. What are the ethical considerations in the practice of General Practice?

• Maintain patient confidentiality
• Respect patient autonomy and informed consent
• Avoid conflicts of interest
• Practice evidence-based medicine
• Uphold professional standards and ethical guidelines

The General Practitioner (GP) plays a vital role in providing comprehensive healthcare to patients within a community setting. Key job responsibilities include:

1. Patient Care

Providing medical consultations, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of health conditions

• Performing physical examinations
• Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests (e.g., blood work, X-rays)

2. Preventive Care

Promoting health and preventing illness

• Administering vaccinations and immunizations
• Providing health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, cholesterol checks)
• Counseling patients on lifestyle choices (e.g., diet, exercise)

3. Chronic Disease Management

Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma

• Developing and implementing treatment plans
• Monitoring patients’ health status
• Collaborating with specialists when necessary

4. Mental Health

Providing basic mental health care and support

• Recognizing and assessing mental health conditions
• Providing counseling and therapy
• Referrals to mental health specialists

To prepare thoroughly for your General Practice interview, consider the following tips:

1. Research the Practice

Gather information about the practice’s mission, values, and patient population. This demonstrates your interest and commitment to understanding the organization.

• Visit the practice’s website
• Read patient reviews or testimonials
• Check online resources (e.g., LinkedIn, Glassdoor)

2. Highlight Your Clinical Skills

Emphasize your medical expertise, including your diagnostic and treatment abilities. Provide specific examples of your work that illustrate your proficiency.

• Describe a complex case you successfully managed
• Share your experience in a specific area of medicine (e.g., diabetes management)
• Mention any certifications or postgraduate training you have undertaken

3. Demonstrate Your People Skills

General Practitioners interact with a diverse range of patients. Showcase your communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills.

• Describe how you build rapport with patients and gain their trust
• Give examples of how you handle difficult patients or situations
• Explain how you promote patient satisfaction

4. Be Prepared to Discuss Your Values

The practice will want to know if your values align with their own. Discuss your approach to patient care, including your emphasis on teamwork, confidentiality, and ethical decision-making.

• Share your views on patient-centered care
• Describe your experience collaborating with other professionals
• Explain your understanding of the principles of confidentiality

5. Practice Mock Interviews

Conduct practice interviews with a friend, family member, or career counselor. This will help you anticipate common questions and prepare thoughtful responses.

• Review common interview questions for General Practitioners
• Seek feedback on your answers and presentation
• Time yourself to ensure you can answer questions concisely