CurveballAdvancedMMI station, Traditional one-on-one
What would you do if a patient died because you misdiagnosed them?
Curveball: Unexpected or playful questions that test how you think on your feet.
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Sample answer outline
- Disclose honestly and promptly to the family with your supervisor: what happened as far as you know, and a sincere apology.
- Report it through the hospital's safety system so it can be reviewed and prevented.
- Support the family: answer questions, stay available, follow up.
- Take care of yourself: clinicians are often called second victims of errors. Seek support instead of hiding.
- Learn from it: what you would change in your practice.
What makes it work
- It puts honesty and the family first, then the system, then you.
- Acknowledging your own wellbeing shows maturity, not weakness.
Avoid
- Defensiveness or minimizing.
How to approach curveball questions
- Take a breath. There is usually no right answer.
- Give a genuine answer quickly, then one reason that shows something about you.
- If it's a puzzle, ask a clarifying question and reason out loud.
- Keep it light and short.
What it tests
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Say it out loud
Confetto's AI interviewer asks you this question, follows up like a real interviewer and gives feedback on your answer.
Practice this question now7-day free trial