Computer test for NHS job - anyone know what I can expect?

Pink-Angel

Hello,

I've got a job interview in a week's time for an admin position in an NHS hospital. There will be a computer test involved. I do use Word, Outlook, Excel already in my current job so it may be ok, but I wondered if anyone knows what I might expect in the test? It says the above plus data entry. I'd really love the job and want to give myself the best possible chance, and have a bit of time to swot up on things for the computer part test if needs be.

Thank you in advance to anyone who can help

Pink-Angel

If anyone has experience of any type of computer test for a job I'd be interested in hearing about it

LittleVoice

There isn't a standard test used by the NHS. Each Trust can use its own method.

However, unless your work would be highly analytical rather than general admin, I would expect some fairly straightforward tasks at intermediate level (eg Excel creating formulae and charts).

FBaby

If there is data entry, there might be a database type test. There could be potentially be PowerPoint questions, but if it mainly data entry, there more likely to look for experience in the above.

Good luck and don't stress, I don't think these tests are too difficult if you do some experience of basics already.

LannieDuck

I work for an organisation linked to the NHS (but not directly in a hospital). We use computerised tests in interview, but each recruitment manager devises their own to test the relevant skills for the particular post. It's mostly word/excel/access tests, e.g. write a letter in word (to test your writing skills and use of formatting in word), create a pivot table or graph in excel, manipulate data in access.

I would look at the job description to see the type of work you'll be doing and expect something along those lines.

Good luck!

Pink-Angel

Many thanks to everyone. I'm probably stressing unnecessarily as use all Microsoft applications in my current job as well as an in-house database. It's been several years since I last had an interview and I guess I just want to give myself the best shot at this job.

Fingers crossed!

[Deleted User]

alphanumeric test? I've had mostly these when they say just got a test for you on the computer, had one test yesterday were I was given a piece of paper told to memorise it and type it out after it was then taken away - not sure what it had to do as call handler!!! (was expecting to role play a call) so just goes to show anything can go

Last alphanumeric test I took, there was actually notes for a change before starting it so we could got 100%! I think it would be hard now to do really complicated stuff with not everyone having the lastest version of microsoft

Don't worry - you'll be fine, good luck

Diabolical_Rem

Make sure you're well acquainted with the foundation of their medical systems! They might see how you fare with an unknown and mysterious program that you haven't had any training in operating. Understanding the basics of what they use to maintain all their records, patients, and medication might go a long way in getting brownie points during the test or afterwards if they throw you a curve ball and you catch it without stumbling.

Beyond that, just expect a typical computer test! Working with Microsoft programs, database programs (if applicable), typing accuracy, whether or not you catch mistakes, response times, etc. They might see how you do under pressure and multi-tasking to ensure you won't mess up if there's a lot of commotion in the hospital. You might not be on the floor but you're still susceptible to the dramatics behind emergency!