A prescription says one teaspoon twice a day for ten days. How many milliliters would you dispense?

What the interviewer is looking for

• This question tests dosage calculations. Correctly works through quantity, days supply and unit conversions and double checks the math.
• Strong answers: Correct answer of one hundred milliliters, shows the steps clearly, and mentions double checking.
• Likely follow-up: How would you handle it if the bottle size only came in one hundred twenty milliliters?

Another way it may be asked: One teaspoon is five milliliters. If the patient takes it twice a day for ten days, how much is that in total?

A structure to follow: Answer, explain, example, limits

1. Step 1

   Answer

   Give your direct answer in the first sentence so the interviewer knows where you are going.

2. Step 2

   Explain

   Say how it works or why you would do it that way, in plain words before jargon.

3. Step 3

   Example

   Anchor it in something you have actually done or seen, with the detail that shows hands-on experience.

4. Step 4

   Limits

   Say when your approach would not be the right one. It shows judgement.

This is guidance on shape, not a script. Use your own real experience and facts; never invent details to fill a gap. See the STAR guide and answer frameworks.

Common slips

• Reciting a definition without showing you have applied it.
• Using terms you cannot explain if asked a level deeper.
• Claiming experience beyond what you can discuss in detail.

How to practise it

Say the answer in 90 seconds, then answer the follow-up as if it were a new question.

Related questions

• How do you double check a calculation, like a days supply or weight based dose, before it goes to the pharmacist?
• Two drugs on the shelf have very similar names and packaging. How do you make sure you pick the right one?
• A customer is angry that their prescription isn't ready. What do you say and do?
• Walk me through how you enter a new prescription and what you check before it goes to the pharmacist.
• A claim is rejected because it needs prior authorization. What do you do next, and how do you explain it to the patient?

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