PSW INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND SAMPLE ANSWERS

1 Tell me about yourself.

I'm currently completing my PSW training in Ontario and have experience from my
placement where I assisted clients with daily living activities, including bathing,
feeding, mobility, and emotional support. I’m passionate about caring for others and
work well under pressure. I’m also reliable, compassionate, and a good team player.

2 Why do you want to be a PSW?

I’ve always had a strong desire to help people, especially seniors and individuals with
disabilities. Being a PSW allows me to make a real difference in someone’s life, helping
them maintain dignity and independence.

3 What are your strengths as a PSW?

My strengths include empathy, patience, strong communication, and a genuine passion
for caregiving. I’m also dependable and work well both independently and as part of a
team.

4 How do you ensure the dignity and privacy of a client?

I always knock before entering a room, explain what I’m going to do, and cover the
client appropriately during care. I make sure to listen to their preferences and involve
them in decision-making whenever possible.

5 How do you handle a difficult or uncooperative client?

I remain calm and respectful, listen to their concerns, and try to understand the root
of their behavior. I use empathy and patience, and if needed, I involve my supervisor
to ensure the client’s needs are still met.

6 What would you do if a client refused care?

I would respect their decision and try to understand why they are refusing. I’d calmly
explain the importance of the care, offer alternatives if possible, and document the
refusal. I would also report it if necessary.

7 How do you handle confidential information?

I follow all privacy policies and only share client information with authorized staff. I
never discuss clients outside of work or in public places.

8 How do you deal with stress on the job?

I stay organized, take deep breaths, and focus on one task at a time. I also
communicate with my team and practice self-care to manage stress effectively.

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9 How do you prioritize your tasks during a busy shift?
I prioritize based on client needs and safety—time-sensitive tasks like toileting come
first. I also communicate with my team to ensure efficient and safe care.

10 How do you manage a situation where two clients need help at the same time?
I assess the urgency and assist the one with the most immediate need. I reassure the
other client and call for help if needed so no one is neglected.

11 Describe your experience with mobility assistance or transferring clients.

I’ve used transfer belts and mechanical lifts, and I always follow proper body
mechanics. I assess each situation and ask for assistance when required.

12 Have you worked with clients who have dementia or Alzheimer’s? How did you
handle it?
Yes. I used a calm tone, simple instructions, and gave clients extra time to respond. I
remained patient and used redirection when they became confused or agitated.

13 What would you do if you noticed a client had a new bruise or injury?
I would document the observation, report it immediately to the nurse or supervisor,
and follow the organization’s protocol to ensure the client’s safety.

14 How do you support a client’s mental health or emotional well-being?

I offer emotional support by listening, showing empathy, engaging in conversations, and
encouraging participation in activities they enjoy. I also observe and report any
changes.

15 Describe a time you went above and beyond for a client.

During my placement, I noticed a client was feeling lonely. After finishing my tasks, I
spent a few extra minutes each day talking to them and playing cards. Over time, they
became more engaged and cheerful.

16. How do you respond if a client accuses you of stealing?

Answer: I would remain calm and not take it personally. I’d reassure the client
respectfully, inform my supervisor immediately, and document the situation. I
understand that confusion or memory issues can sometimes cause such situations.

17. What would you do if you witnessed another staff member being rough or
neglectful toward a client?

Answer: I would ensure the client is safe, then report the incident to my supervisor or
follow the organization’s reporting procedure. Client safety is always the top priority,
and abuse or neglect should never be ignored.
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18. How do you manage time when caring for multiple clients with different
needs?

Answer: I review care plans, prioritize urgent tasks like medications or toileting, and
keep communication open with coworkers. I stay organized and adjust as needed
throughout the shift.

19. What’s your approach to feeding a client who has difficulty swallowing?

Answer: I follow their care plan and dietary restrictions, serve food at the
recommended texture, and feed them slowly while monitoring for choking. I ensure
they’re sitting upright and stay with them while they eat.

20. How do you maintain professional boundaries with clients?

Answer: I remain friendly and supportive but avoid sharing personal details or forming
inappropriate relationships. I focus on the client’s needs and always act in a
professional and respectful manner.

21. What would you do if a client refused to take their medication?

Answer: I would not force them. I’d explain the purpose and importance of the
medication calmly, encourage them, and document the refusal. I would notify the nurse
or supervisor immediately for further guidance.

22. How do you stay updated with best practices or changes in care procedures?

Answer: I stay updated through in-service training, reading workplace bulletins, asking
questions, and learning from experienced staff. I’m always open to feedback and eager
to improve my skills.

23. Describe a time when you had to advocate for a client.

Answer: During placement, I noticed a client was not eating well and seemed
withdrawn. I reported it and suggested a reassessment. It turned out they were in
early stages of depression and received proper support thanks to the timely report.

24. How do you support clients with incontinence in a respectful manner?

Answer: I ensure privacy and never rush them. I use calm, reassuring language, and
perform care discreetly. I also monitor for skin integrity and report any concerns.

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25. What qualities make a great PSW, in your opinion?

Answer: A great PSW is compassionate, patient, observant, respectful, and

dependable. They must also be good communicators, flexible with changes, and able to
work well under pressure.

26. How would you handle a situation where a client has difficulty with mobility?

Answer: I would assess the client’s condition and follow the care plan. I would use
proper transfer techniques, provide any necessary assistive devices, and ensure the
environment is free of obstacles. Safety and comfort are always the priority.

27. How do you handle a situation where a client exhibits challenging behaviors?

Answer: I would remain calm and patient, try to understand the cause of their
behavior (whether it’s physical discomfort, emotional distress, or confusion), and use
communication techniques that are gentle and non-threatening. I would also consult
with my team for further strategies.

28. How do you ensure a clean and safe environment for clients?

Answer: I follow proper infection control protocols, clean and disinfect surfaces
regularly, and ensure that clients’ living areas are free of hazards. I also make sure
clients are comfortable and their needs are met to prevent accidents.

29. What would you do if a client expressed a desire to go home but they are
not able to safely leave the facility?

Answer: I would listen to their concerns and acknowledge their feelings. I would
explain their current health situation and why it’s not safe to leave. I’d involve the
family in the discussion to ensure the client’s emotional needs are met while working to
maintain their safety.

30. How would you handle a situation where a client seems to be in pain, but they
aren’t verbalizing it?

Answer: I would observe their body language and signs of discomfort, such as changes
in posture, facial expression, or restlessness. I would report my observations to the
nursing staff for further assessment and ensure the client is as comfortable as
possible.