critical thinking nursing interview questions and answers pdf

30 Top Nursing Interview Questions & Answers | 2024

• Types of Interview Questions
• Question Themes
• How to Answer
• Common Interview Questions & Answers

Questions to Ask the Employer

Things to do before leaving the interview.

• Interview Prep

Wondering which nursing interview questions you might be asked at your next job interview? You've come to the right place. Read on for the top nursing interview questions and answers to help you nail that next interview. 

Types of Nursing Interview Questions

Healthcare employers tend to lean towards asking behavioral-based interview questions.

Behavioral-based questions are about how you acted in a specific situation. The goal is to gauge how you react under different circumstances. It is best to answer these questions with real-life stories and examples.

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Nursing Interview Question Themes

Most behavioral interview questions asked of nurses are based on the following themes: 

• Patient-care
• Adaptability
• Time management
• Communication style
• Motivation and core values

How to Answer Behavioral-Based Questions

When telling stories during interviews, we suggest using the S-T-A-R format - this will ensure your story is direct, concise and to the point. So, what does the acronym  S-T-A-R  stand for?

A ction-steps

You can learn more about answering interview questions by using the  S-T-A-R format  by reading our complete guide to nursing interviews. 

30 Common Nursing Interview Questions & Answers

• Teamwork questions
• Patient care questions
• Adaptability questions
• Time management questions
• Communication style questions
• Motivation and core values questions

Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Teamwork

Interviewers want to envision how you will fit in with their team and how you work well with various personalities. We suggest telling a story about a time you dealt with a co-worker who had a conflicting personality, a disagreement within your healthcare team, or a challenging patient case involving your team. Always remember to talk about what you learned from the situation and if anything positive came from it. 

1. Describe a situation when you had to work closely with a difficult coworker. How did you handle the situation? Were you able to build a relationship with this person?

Never talk badly about anyone during an interview. Explain the situation and why the individual was difficult. Share how you handled the situation. Try to turn anything negative into a positive. What did you learn from the situation? What might you do differently now? What was the “silver lining”? Were you able to talk through your differences? Did you become friends? 

Sample answer:

Working closely with difficult coworkers can be challenging, but it is important to remember the patient, their care, and their family is most important. Putting aside differences is essential for all nurses because not everyone is the same. Sometimes this means not discussing specific topics such as religion or politics at work. With that being said, not everyone will become friends in the workplace but working together is key for the successful care of patients.

2. Talk about a conflict within your healthcare team. What was the conflict, and how did you handle it?

Explain the conflict surrounding the situation. Who was involved? What was your role? Did anything positive come from this? What did you learn? 

Conflict often occurs in the hospital setting, particularly between new nurses and more seasoned staff, as well as doctors and nurses. At one specific time, there was concern from a parent that a newer nurse was not monitoring a patient’s breathing postoperatively as closely as she would have liked.

I was covering the nurse for lunch and the mother brought her concerns to me. I discussed and validated her concerns. Once the nurse was back from lunch, I spoke with her regarding the mother’s concerns. The nurse was very upset and felt it was not my place to say anything to her regarding this. A parent or patient’s concerns should never be dismissed. I spoke to the nurse educator on the unit to use the opportunity as a teaching moment.

3. Describe a time when you were particularly proud of your healthcare team. What was your role in this situation? 

Describe the circumstances and actions step-by-step. What happened to make you feel proud? What was your role? Who was involved? What was the result? 

Working in the ICU setting, there are countless moments that make me proud to be a nurse and proud to be part of this amazing community. Watching a patient survive a code, take their first steps on prosthetic legs, or be in the room when a patient I tell is receiving a new heart is the moment we all want to be a part of. Even if I am not delivering the news or caring personally, the information my patient receives directly affects me.

4. Tell me about a time you stepped into a leadership role.

This doesn’t need to be anything official. Think about a time when you stepped up to the plate and took charge of a situation. What was the circumstance? What made you take the lead? Who was involved? Did any opportunities arise from this situation? 

I have acted as a charge nurse numerous times in my career. I have had to lead code teams, respond to rapid responses, and make difficult staffing decisions. As a charge nurse I have determined patient assignments to ensure that assignments are fair and equal. Furthermore, I have to ensure that the nurses’ skill set is sufficient for the assignment.

Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Patient Care 

Healthcare hiring professionals want to hire nurses who provide excellent patient care. Education is of utmost importance to healthcare employers. We suggest telling stories about times you provided top-notch patient care or went out of your way to educate patients and/or their families. 

1. Tell me about a time when a patient’s family was dissatisfied with your care. How did you handle that situation?

Make sure to explain the situation in detail, including both perspectives (the patient’s family and yours). Never talk badly about patients or their families. Take ownership if you indeed did something wrong. Share any positives that came from this - what did you learn? What would you do differently now? How did you turn this into a positive? 

I once was floated to a unit that I had never worked in and wasn’t sure where supplies were located. The patient's mother did not recognize me as a regular floor nurse on the unit, which already made the family leery of me from the start of the shift. I continually had to prove myself throughout the day because, as nurses, we all do things slightly differently.

There is not always a wrong way or a right way to do things but in this case, there was a policy to be followed. I followed it, and apparently, my dressing change was slightly different than the previous ones. I communicated regularly with the charge nurse, and she came to check in with the family to address any issues in real time.

2. What approach do you take in communicating with people who do not know medical jargon? Give an example of a time you explained medical terminology to someone who is not medically trained.

Explain step-by-step how you’ve performed in a similar situation. What specific words and terminology did you use? How did you know that the individual understood your explanation? 

It is imperative that we use simple words for our patients and families who are not medically trained and utilize a teach-back method to ensure they understand the information that is communicated to them. I once had to explain post-operative care to a family whose child had tonsil surgery. I had to use words such as poop instead of bowel movement. I used Tylenol instead of acetaminophen.

3. Describe a time you provided effective patient or family education.

Tell a story about a time when you knew your patient or family retained your teachings. How did you know that you effectively communicated the piece of education? 

After teaching families, I ask them to repeat the information in their own words. Using a teach-back method allows nurses to know if families truly understood the information that was given to them. It is also important to provide the family with written educational material and use other forms of education, such as videos or hands-on, when possible.

I taught a family post-operative spine care after a posterior spinal fusion. The parents were able to properly demonstrate how to transfer their child from the bed to the chair. In doing so, I was able to determine that they had retained the information.

4. Talk about a time a patient or their family was particularly pleased and appreciative of your care.

Tell a story about a family who was happy with your care. What did you do in particular that they were pleased with? How did you know they were happy? What were the results of this situation?

Working in pediatrics can be challenging but also very rewarding. There are times when parents are unable to stay at the bedside 24/7 because of work, other children, or previous commitments.

I was taking care of a 6-month-old twin during a specific shift. The family was unable to be at the bedside because the father had to work, and the mother was at home with the twin sister and the other children. I spent my shift playing with the infant with age-appropriate toys, and when the mother called to check in – I put the phone next to the infant. The mother was able to hear her baby laughing while singing to her. This brought them closer together and the mother to tears. She stated that no other nurse had done that during the hospitalization, and she was eternally grateful.

5. Give an example of a time you had to interact with a hostile patient. How did you handle the situation, and what was the outcome? 

Tell a story about a hostile patient and your step-by-step actions. What was the patient doing that was hostile? How did you react? How did you feel? What procedures did you follow to interact with the patient? What was the result of your actions? 

Unfortunately, hostile patients often are part of the job. It’s important to remember some of the patients are being hostile because they are in pain, away from family, and in the hospital setting.

T here was a time when a patient refused to take her medication. I tried everything, but she would spit them out at me when she tried to take them. Because of this behavior, I involved my charge nurse, the physician in charge of her care, and the social worker.

After many conversations and phone calls, it was determined the patient was spitting the medication out because she liked it mixed in chocolate pudding. The woman was elderly and suffered from dementia. It was only after speaking with the social worker that we learned of her medication preference. She was not able to communicate with us her wants and needs and this led to hostility.

6. Describe a time you were faced with a patient who chose not to communicate or disclose important information. How did you handle the situation, and what was the outcome? 

Tell a story about a patient you worked with in a similar situation. What step-by-step actions did you take to obtain the information from the patient? What were the results of your actions? 

A parent once didn’t disclose that the father of the child was not her current boyfriend. This was important as the patient was going to need consent forms signed, and legally, this boyfriend was not able to sign the consent forms. Additionally, there was a man calling the unit, claiming to be the father of the child. Social work and the nurse manager were notified.

Through an open conversation, the mother disclosed the correct identity of the father. While I personally did not discover the information, it is essential to know the resources that are available to you and utilize them to the best of your ability.

Interviewing isn’t easy—for anyone! It’s important to be overly prepared to put your best foot forward during every stage of the process. Nurse.org put together this super helpful workbook packed full of exercises, sample questions, and checklists to help you ace your next interview.

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Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Adaptability

The nursing profession is one of constant urgency, crisis, and uncertainty. Tell stories of challenges and follow up with key takeaways and learned lessons. 

1. Tell me about a time you were under a lot of pressure. What was going on, and how did you get through it? 

Tell a story about a time you were stressed and under pressure to perform. Explain the situation and why you felt pressured. Describe step-by-step the actions you took to make it through the situation. What was the result? What did you learn? What might you do differently now? 

I was the most senior nurse in the unit by over a decade. I had to handle my patient assignments and act as a resource to the other newer nurses on the unit. I had to make sure my time management was great, as well as my ability to drop everything and help someone else. I had to stay organized; otherwise, I would not have been able to assist others.

2. Describe a time when your facility was undergoing some change. How did that impact you, and how did you adapt? 

Talk about a time your facility changed. Maybe they were acquired by another facility. Perhaps they transitioned to a new computer system. Describe the change and the steps you took to adapt to such change. 

One healthcare system I worked for switched from paper charting to electronic medical records and computerized charting. This transition was confusing and often overwhelming. I was able to adapt quickly, but unfortunately, some of my coworkers were not able to.

3. Tell me about a time when you didn’t know the answer to something at work. How did you go about finding the information? 

Tell a story about a time when you did not know the answer. Explain step-by-step the action you took to find the information. Talk about the result of your actions. 

As nurses, there is no way that we can possibly know everything. Knowing where to go for help is the first step. At the beginning of every shift, I identify a nurse that I can use as a resource, such as the charge nurse, nurse educator, or unit resource nurse. This individual is generally someone who is more senior with an advanced skill set.

If I am unable to get the answer from them or they are busy I look at the healthcare systems policy and procedure manager. If there is a concern regarding a medication dosage or interaction, I look to Lexi-Comp.

4. Give me an example of an awkward situation at work. How did you remove yourself from the situation?  

Tell a story about an uncomfortable situation. What was the situation, and why did it feel awkward? Explain the steps you took to leave the situation. What were the results of your actions? What did you learn? 

I once had a teenage male patient make very inappropriate sexual comments towards me. At first, I ignored them, thinking it was a one-time thing. The second time, I told him that the comments were inappropriate and I did not want him to say those things to me. The third time, I left the patient’s room and went directly to the charge nurse.

I explained the situation and how uncomfortable I was in caring for the patient. She gathered a team to speak to the patient. My assignment was switched for the remainder of the shift.

5. Tell me about a time you failed. How did you deal with this situation?

Share a story about when you experience failure. Talk about your feelings and why you felt that you failed. Discuss anything positive that came from this failure. What did you learn from failing? What might you do differently now? 

Failing is one of the worst feelings in the world, either professionally or personally. Working in the ICU setting, patients die. We fail them when this happens. I fail them when this happens.

After every death, there is a debriefing to discuss what went well and what could have been done differently. I took that time to reflect on my participation in the event and if there was something I could have done differently. Failure doesn’t equal weakness. It simply is something that we must improve upon.

Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Time Management 

Nurses are masters at multitasking - for example, managing multiple patients and administering medication on time while maintaining detailed notes. Tell stories about your punctuality, ability to meet deadlines, and how you remain organized through it all. 

1. Talk about a time you worked in a fast-paced setting. How do you prioritize tasks while maintaining excellent patient care? 

Give an example of a time you had to prioritize your tasks quickly. Explain your thought process in detail and why you chose to complete the duties in such an order. 

Working in an ICU setting is extremely fast-paced, and it is essential to prioritize your tasks for the day. At the beginning of the shift, I make a to-do list with everything that needs to be accomplished. I put the must-do things at the top of the list and the things I would like to do at the bottom.

Administering medications is placed at the top of the list, and washing a patient’s hair is further down. While I would love to accomplish everything, it just isn’t possible.

2. Describe your experience with a very ill patient who required a lot of your time. How did you manage this patient’s care while ensuring your other patients were adequately cared for? 

Talk about the patient’s care and why they needed much of your time. What was the illness, trauma or injury? How did you ensure that this patient received quality care? How did you manage your other patients? 

Delegation is key here. Knowing when to ask for help is important. Without identifying resources and asking for help, success is impossible.

3. Talk about a time when you felt overwhelmed with your work or patient load. What did you do? 

Give a specific example of a time you were overwhelmed. Explain step-by-step the actions you took to overcome this feeling and to focus on the task at hand. 

I asked for help during these situations. Without identifying resources and asking for help, success is impossible.

4. Give an example of an important goal you set for yourself. Did you accomplish that goal? How did you ensure that you accomplished it? 

Make sure the goal you share is related to your career. Explain the steps you took to accomplish your goal. What challenges did you face? How did you feel once you accomplished your goal? 

I set the goal of earning my pediatric certification and made a list of things that I must do to achieve that. I signed up for the exam and paid the fee, so I had to take it. There was no backing out.

Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Communication Style

It is important to convey your particular communication style and techniques. Tell stories about specific times you either had difficulty communicating or times you communicated well. If you can, walk through your step-by-step thought process and give examples. 

1. Give an example of a time when you were able to successfully persuade a patient to agree to something. How did you persuade this person? 

Tell a story about a specific time when you had a difficult time getting a patient to agree to something at work. What was the situation, and what did they need to agree to? What specific actions did you take to get them to agree? What was the result? 

Ideally, we never want to persuade a patient to do something. We would like the patient to agree to it freely. However, I did bargain with a child that if he ate his breakfast, I would play video games with him afterward. Using a bargaining system worked well to ensure the patient was well nourished.

2. Tell me about a time when you had to rely on written communication to explain yourself to your team or to a patient. 

Talk about a time when you successfully relied on written (or typed) communication. What were the circumstances? What was being discussed? How did you ensure success? 

Most hospitals utilize a text feature to communicate quickly with the medical team. It is important to be concise and provide all of the important information so that the medical team can determine the best course of action.

3. Talk about a time when you had not communicated well. How did you correct the situation? 

No one is perfect; we all have flaws. Discuss a time when you experienced miscommunication at work. What were the circumstances? How did you know you did not communicate well? What did you learn? What were the results? 

This often happens when there is a language barrier. I learned that it is always better to ask for an in-person interpreter or utilize computer translation software. This ensures there is no miscommunication of information. Unfortunately, hand gestures and speaking louder don’t always work.

4. Describe a time when you received negative feedback and turned it into something positive. 

Discuss a time at work when you received negative feedback. What was the feedback and circumstances surrounding the feedback? Who gave you the negative feedback? How did it make you feel? What did you do as a result of the feedback? 

I was once told that I needed to be more social at work and try and bond with my work colleagues. I disagreed with my manager because I felt that we were there to work and take care of our patients, not to make friends. Becoming close friends with coworkers is an added bonus.

While I didn’t become best friends with anyone from the unit, I was able to spend downtime reading and studying to earn additional certifications, which helped me secure better jobs and opportunities in nursing.

Sample Nurse Interview Questions: Motivation and Core Values

These questions are designed to help interviewers understand your motivation and personal values. When answering such questions, you should share motivational stories from your life that convey your core values. 

1. What is one professional accomplishment that you are most proud of and why? 

Tell a story about one of your most noteworthy accomplishments at work. What was the accomplishment? What steps did you take to achieve it? Who else was involved in this accomplishment? What happened as a result of the accomplishment? 

Earning my advanced pediatric certification is something I worked very hard for, and it validates the years I have spent at the bedside.

2. Have you ever felt dissatisfied with your work as a Nurse? What could have been done to make it better? 

Most nurses encounter difficulties while working. Talk about a time when you felt dissatisfied with your work. What were the circumstances, and what happened? What was your role? Why did you feel dissatisfied? What would you do differently now? What did you learn? 

I once became extremely dissatisfied because I was consistently being given easier assignments and not being given the ICU level of patients. It became frustrating, and while I understood that others needed to learn and gain experience, it quickly left me annoyed with my position, the unit, and the healthcare system.

I sat down and spoke to my nurse manager about my concerns and inquired why it was happening. The nurse manager was not aware of the situation and it was later determined that a few of the charge nurses were giving the sicker patients to their friends and not spreading them out amongst the nurses.  

3. Describe a time when you went over and above your job requirements. What motivated you to put forth the extra effort? 

Talk about a specific instance when you went out of your way for your job or for a patient. What were the circumstances? Why did you choose to take the action? What did you do? What were the results? 

I personally feel like I give 110% to all of my patients every shift, but there was one that I grew especially close with. For some reason, the patient had been dropped off by a family member, and no one had come to see the child for months. It was obvious the patient was missing key developmental milestones and was becoming increasingly lonely and depressed.

I asked to become the primary nurse for the patient, which meant every time I worked, he would be assigned to me. I worked with him over several months to get him potty trained and to improve his vocabulary. I don’t know exactly why I was extra motivated, but at that time in our lives, the patient and I needed each other.

4. Give an example of a mistake you’ve made. How did you handle it? 

It is important to admit that you make mistakes and to own up to them. Talk about the specific mistake and why it happened. What was your role in the mistake? How did you know that you made a mistake? Who was involved? What did you learn? What have you done to improve? What were the results? 

Mistakes are part of nursing, whether we like to admit to it or not. It’s important to learn from those mistakes and become a better nurse. One mistake that I will never forget is leaving the gastronomy tube unclamped with medication administration.

Because it was unclamped when I opened the port to give the next medication, the last medication, as well as formula, came out. I was unable to clamp it quickly enough, and the medications I had already given were leaking onto the bed. 

I had to speak with the medical team and pharmacy to discuss replacing them. I have never forgotten to clamp the gastronomy tube again.

5. What do you find most difficult about being a Nurse? How do you overcome this difficulty? 

Be honest and talk about the most difficult component of nursing. Maybe it’s working with a specific patient population. Or acting in a leadership role. Whatever it is to you, always make sure to talk about the steps and actions you’ve taken to cope with the difficulty.

The most difficult aspect of being a nurse is watching a patient die, especially one that I have cared for when they were healthy. Watching the family lose a loved one is heartbreaking. Sometimes I sit in the bathroom and take a moment for myself to cry, to reflect, and to pause to remember the patient. Death is part of our everyday world, and sometimes that is hard to remember.

Interviewing is a two-way street. Often, nurses are so excited and nervous about answering questions well during their interviews that they forget to ask questions to their potential future employers.

After all, how do you know if the job is an excellent fit unless you ask about the details that are important to you?

Most of the time, when you reach the end of your interview, employers will ask interviewees if they have any questions about the position. This is a great opportunity to show that you have done your research on their facility and expected job duties and demonstrate how excited you are about the position. 

Depending on time, you may want to consider limiting your questions to two or three questions. Most nursing administrators set aside an allotted amount of time to interview each potential new hire, and you don’t want to be disrespectful of their time. 

Many of these questions may also be great to ask after you have the job and work 1:1 with a preceptor or other helpful nurses. Experienced nurses are great resources for questions once you get the job!

Sample Questions To Ask During an Interview: Onboarding

• How long is the training period, and what does it entail?
• How will my training success be measured?
• Will I have orientation days, and what will they entail?
• What advice would you give to a nurse who is just starting on the unit?
• How quickly are you looking to hire someone?
• Who will I be reporting to?
• What shifts are you hiring for: night, day, mid-shift, or alternating?
• Will I be required to work on-call shifts?

Sample Questions To Ask During an Interview: Mentoring

• Will I be assigned a preceptor?
• How will my success as a new hire be measured?
• What is your training process for new hires?
• What advice do you have for a new hire who wants to succeed in this unit?
• How frequently do you perform performance reviews?

Sample Questions To Ask During an Interview: Culture

• Can you explain what the nursing culture is like here?
• Does the nursing staff face any ongoing challenges on the unit? What are the most critical challenges?
• What is the management style of this unit?
• What does an ideal candidate look like for this role?
• How does this nursing environment facilitate collaboration and unity?

Sample Questions To Ask During an Interview: Professional Development

• Are there any professional development opportunities?
• How long do nurses work at the bedside before taking on a charge nurse role?
• Do you offer tuition reimbursement for nurses advancing their education to take on higher-level nursing roles?
• Are nurses encouraged to become certified in their specialties?
• Will I be expected to float to other units? How often will that occur?

Sample Questions for New Nursing Graduates

• Do you offer a new nursing graduate program, how long is it, and what does it entail?
• How are new graduates measured on performance and competency?
• Do new graduates have a mentor? How long do they provide supervision and nursing support?
• What are the most common challenges new grads experience in this unit?
• When will I be eligible to become involved on unit committees? 

Other Important Questions You May Want to Ask

You will not have enough time to ask all of these questions during your interview, but you may want to pick one or two to ask if there is any remaining time left. 

Otherwise, keep these questions handy for when you have an opportunity to ask them in the future. They may help provide essential information to help you exceed expectations in your new job!

• What electronic medical record (EMR) system does this facility use?
• Describe the patient population on the unit and how many patients will we have at capacity?
• Do you have overtime policies for nurses who want to work extra shifts?
• What are staffing ratios here?
• How does the scheduling process work?
• What are your protocols for dealing with challenging or difficult patients?

Remember to ask what the next steps in the interview process are and express your interest in the position. 

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For example, if the hiring manager says something like, “I am not sure that you have enough critical care experience to take on this position,” you can respond and assure them that you are perfect for the role.

You may want to say something like, “I have always wanted to work in a high-acuity environment. I am extremely dedicated and eager to learn new skills necessary to succeed in this role. I am like a sponge and ready to learn!”

Remember to close the interview on a high note before walking away.

How to Prepare for Your Nursing Interview 

1. dress for success.

You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression! In fact, many hiring managers say they know if they are interested in hiring someone within the first five minutes. 

It is essential to look professional and air on the more conservative side of style versus wearing bright and flashy clothing. Keep jewelry simple and understated. If it is appropriate to wear a suit, stick to neutral colors such as black, navy, or dark brown shades.

Your goal is to look as professional as possible so the person you are speaking with can focus on the essential skills you will bring to their organization.

2. Practice answering as many interview questions as you can out loud

Many interviewees review interview questions by reading them alone. But that may not help prepare you as well as speaking your answers out loud. In fact, you may find that you aren’t as clear on many of your answers as you thought you were.

Consider enlisting a friend or family member to act as the interviewer and ask you sample questions. Practice answering your questions and focus on ways you can communicate more effectively. Be assertive and don’t ramble. You will know if you are ready if you can answer questions clearly and constantly.

3. Research the institution thoroughly

LinkedIn is a great resource for learning about healthcare facilities and the types of employees who work there. Employers usually appreciate it when candidates show they have basic knowledge about an organization's goals. 

The last thing you want is to be asked something about the organization and not have an answer for it. 

4. Arrive at least 20 minutes or more before your interview starts

Arrive early enough that you can use the restroom if needed, straighten yourself up, and not feel rushed walking into the interview.

5. Bring a great attitude

Make sure you get plenty of shut-eye the night before your interview and eat a good breakfast. Drink coffee if it helps you perform at your best, but avoid it as it can make you jittery.

But most importantly, smile and bring a positive vibe. You are going to do great!

Phone Interviews

Many employers do an initial phone interview before bringing candidates in to meet face-to-face. This often helps recruiters weed out candidates who aren’t serious about a position and offer additional information to candidates to make sure they really want the job. 

Bu phone interviews are just as important as in-person or online interviews. 

Here are a few tips to remember:

• Prepare for a phone interview the same way you would for a face-to-face interview. You have no way of predicting what questions will be asked, and it's better to be overly prepared than under-prepared.
• Stand up while you are talking. Standing during a phone interview may help you project your answers more clearly than if you are sitting down.
• Keep your resume and cover letter within reach in case you are asked about them.
• Don’t eat or drink during the phone interview, even though they can’t see you. 
• Shower and get ready as if it were a face-to-face interview. You will feel more confident and professional, and it may help you perform better.

Zoom Interview Tips

Ever since the start of the pandemic, Zoom interviews have become exceedingly common. Employers continue to utilize online interviewing because it is often more accessible and convenient for everyone involved.

Preparing for a Zoom interview is similar to preparing for an in-person or phone interview. However, there are several tips you should keep in mind:

1. Dress professionally as if you were going to a face-to-face interview 

If you would have worn a suit to an in-person interview, consider wearing it for your Zoom interview. Remember that even though employers usually don’t see your lower half on Zoom, there is a slight chance you may have to stand up or grab something. So no pajama pants!

2. Make sure your background is set up nicely

The interviewer will see your surroundings, so make sure your background is clean and organized. Consider a blank wall so nothing distracts your interviewer from your amazing skills. Also, never have a window behind you because the light can drown you out. 

3. Keep it quiet

If you have roommates, let them know you will be on a Zoom interview, and they must stay quiet. If you have pets that have the potential to interrupt your interview, make arrangements for them beforehand. The last thing you want is for your cat to walk right in front of your screen!

4. Set up your Zoom space and practice the day before

If you are new to Zoom, don’t fret! It is a fairly simple platform to use. But it may be a good idea to set yourself up beforehand and practice so there are no surprises.

5. Ensure a good internet connection

No connection, no interview! Ensure that a quality connection is set up early so you don’t have to scramble when you should be starting your interview.

6. Practice with a friend

If you are new to Zoom, you may not be aware of your body language or how you present over video. Consider making a few Zoom calls with friends and family to get comfortable with it and ensure that you have an excellent video presence.

Nursing Behavioral Interview Flash Cards With Answers 

Healthcare employers are increasingly asking behavioral questions - this means they want to know exactly how you will perform during different circumstances. They will be asking for you to provide examples of specific scenarios. Sound overwhelming? Don’t fret; Nurse.org has over 50 behavioral interview questions to help you practice. We’ve even included sample answers! 

What questions are asked in a nursing interview?

• Healthcare hiring managers usually ask behavioral-based interview questions. These questions help provide information about how you may handle specific situations in the workplace and allow you to show your critical thinking skills. 

How do I prepare for a nursing interview?

• Preparing for your interview starts well in advance of your actual interview date. Here are a few essential tips to prepare for your nursing interview: Practice as many interview questions as you can, dress professionally, research the institution thoroughly, show up early, bring a great attitude, and relax. You will do great!

What are the four skills of a nursing interview? 

• Listening actively and taking notes when appropriate. Asking important questions. Good non-verbal communication - ways to do this include leaning forward slightly, smiling, making good eye contact, and head nodding when appropriate. Answer behavioral questions with examples from your own work experience.

How do you introduce yourself in a nursing interview?

• Start with your name and a brief history of your education and work history. You may want to explain why you chose this career and are so passionate about it. It is also important to talk about why you make a good fit for the position and what your career goals are in the future.

Kathleen Gaines (nee Colduvell) is a nationally published writer turned Pediatric ICU nurse from Philadelphia with over 13 years of ICU experience. She has an extensive ICU background having formerly worked in the CICU and NICU at several major hospitals in the Philadelphia region. After earning her MSN in Education from Loyola University of New Orleans, she currently also teaches for several prominent Universities making sure the next generation is ready for the bedside. As a certified breastfeeding counselor and trauma certified nurse, she is always ready for the next nursing challenge.

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

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• Nursing School

Critical Thinking Nursing Interview Questions

Critical thinking nursing interview questions feature prominently in any interview. They aren’t supposed to trip you up, but they will do just that if you aren’t ready.

Along with your nursing school application cover letter and your nursing school letter of intent , your nursing school interview questions give you an opportunity to show an admissions board, in your own words, how perfect you are for nursing school.

This article will show you how to take that opportunity and maximally utilize it to your advantage. We will go through what exactly a critical thinking question is, why they are being asked, and what types of responses you can give. Finally, we will cover several sample answers so that you can prepare your own answers for your upcoming interview.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 7 min read

Why are critical thinking questions asked.

While critical thinking questions may relate to aspects of healthcare and nursing, including patient care, working as part of a team, and response to emergencies, they may also deal with dilemmas that have nothing to do with healthcare. For example, you may be faced with a conflict of interest scenario, or an ethical dilemma with a close friend.

Essentially, you’re being tested on your decision-making processes and how you solve problems, whether they are healthcare related or not. Your interviewer is trying to find out if you think logically, quickly, and in ways that provide good solutions in real-world scenarios.

Critical thinking is important to any job, but is of particular importance to nursing. Any healthcare professional deals with immense challenges on a daily basis. These challenges come up with little warning and require clearheaded responses.

Because the question is looking for your decision-making processes, you need to make sure that your responses put those processes in the limelight. Therefore, your answers should focus on the steps of how you made your decision and the why behind those steps: in other words, how you arrived at that response. You should show off how you evaluate situations and respond, but also how you concluded that your response was the most logical course of action.

Even if the question you are asked is hypothetical or situational, as we like to call it, you can definitely use your personal experiences to answer. Make sure to demonstrate non-judgmental attitude and objectivity when making your decision.

With nursing school interview questions, expert responses are required.

Let’s look at a sample critical thinking question and an expert response.

Prompt: Describe the most stressful event of your life. Why was it stressful, and how did you handle the situation?

Example: I\u2019m not saying it was easy, but that organization made things much more straightforward, and it helped to keep my mind calm and disciplined in all that chaos. I learned how to not only balance all of these disparate elements of my life, but that I could use the very act of balancing as a calming influence. "}]">

Nurses often have to deal with hostile patients. Can you recall a time you had to deal with hostility? What did you do and what were the results?

Sample answer:

I was working in a supporting role at a psychiatric institution, and one of the patients was a very angry person. He had a very quick temper and would often be physically violent, in addition to uncooperative or verbally abusive. The nurses said that giving meds felt like playing Russian roulette.

So, I would always make sure that I was around for that patient’s med time, ready to call security if he became violent.

He didn’t like taking his pills, either. One day, I was speaking with him and I discovered that his anger over medication was coming from a lack of understanding; he didn’t fully know what the pills did. So, I talked to his nurse about it, and she went over the reasons for his particular drugs and their side-effects. I also let his physician know about his concerns so that the doctor could have a conversation about it at her next visit in.

Once those issues had been dealt with, medication was much easier to distribute. It didn’t solve all the problems, but it helped make his days a lot smoother.

Critical thinking questions can be daunting and difficult, but they can also show some of your best talents and establish your abilities in a very concrete way. These aren’t abstract. These are demonstrations of actual actions taken. Use these questions to show off your impressive side with a committee.

The focus is the main difference, and with a critical thinking question, that focus is on how you use problem-solving and decision-making in different scenarios. They are to get a sense of how you deal with challenges and obstacles on a day-to-day basis.

Contrast this to more open-ended questions like “Tell us a little bit about yourself,” or “ Why do you want to be a nurse? ”

Fairly compact; you should answer in less than a minute.

Use just enough language to set up the problem you faced, your thought processes on how to deal with those problems, the actions you took, and the outcomes that those actions produced. This can be done in a fairly swift amount of time.

That doesn’t mean you should skimp on detail. While the interviewers don’t need every small thing that happened, they shouldn’t be confused or feel like they’re missing anything. Remember to showcase your abilities – don't brush past them: highlight!

Use mock interviews as part of your nursing school interview preparation to hone your answers for time and detail.

The most important reason is that you will wind up sounding robotic and insincere.

Additionally, the critical thinking questions might be slight variants, so a memorized answer could (or will) end up not quite fitting the question.

Better to memorize scenarios than words so that you can apply those examples to any question that comes up.

You can, and sometimes are directly asked to provide an example of failure.

If an interviewer asks you to describe a time you failed at implementing critical thinking, of course you must supply them with something, and should prepare for such questions in their own right.

Remember that they are looking for your decision-making processes and skills, so the outcome might have been bad, but if your processes were excellent, the interviewer will make note of that. Sometimes even good decisions lead to negative outcomes – sometimes that’s inevitable.

If you failed to apply good critical thinking in a situation, you can highlight what you learned from the experience and how it has improved subsequent actions and decision-making processes.

Failure is only truly failure if no lessons were learned.

You can take a short pause to think, and give yourself enough time to recall an appropriate event or incident. It’s important to research the different types of nursing school interview questions and prepare a relevant story for a variety of scenarios.

While it is unlikely that you will be asked about something that you can’t relate to at all (most of the questions are broad enough to allow some sort of connection) it might happen that you just haven’t had a given experience yet.

You can’t just say, “That’s never happened to me,” and leave it at that.

However, you might want to acknowledge this by saying, “That exact thing has never happened to me, but I have had a similar experience,” and speak of the closest thing you have to what was asked. Perhaps it wasn’t a work or healthcare setting, but maybe something that happened with family members or friends in a social setting, for instance – that will do.

Get as close as you can to the question, acknowledge the discrepancy, and answer to the best of your ability.

Expect anything, because depending on the interview, almost anything can be covered.

Even the type of interview can change, depending on the school. Some will use a traditional panel-style interview, but others will use the multiple mini-interview (MMI) format. If the latter, you might want to learn more about how to prepare for your multiple mini interview .

What exactly is in the interview depends on the school and panel, so be ready for anything.

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Nursing Interview Questions Guide

• How to Answer Scenario-Based Nursing Interview Questions

Feb 29, 2024

You’ve put a lot of effort into your job search. You patiently sorted through hundreds of nursing job postings, found one that matches your skills and interests, and submitted an application. Now you find out your hard work has paid off: you got a job interview!

Think of this as your chance to bring your nursing resume to life and show the employer just how great a fit you are for the position — not to mention for their team. But if you really want to dazzle your interviewers, you’ll need to be able to answer any kinds of questions they ask you — the most common of which are clinical scenario-based questions.

What Are Clinical Scenario Interview Questions?

There are two types of clinical questions an interviewer could ask:

Type #1: Behavioral questions

Behavioral questions focus on things you’ve already done (i.e., “Can you give me an example of the way that you communicate with patients who have a hard time understanding what you want them to do?”).

Type #2: Situational questions

Situational questions expect you to imagine yourself in certain scenarios you may have never faced before (i.e., “What would you do if the patient you were caring for couldn’t understand what you were explaining about the type of care that she was about to receive?”).

Why would an interviewer ask these types of questions, specifically? Well, the team that hires you will likely want to know how you respond in certain high-pressure situations. They want to see your problem-solving style and get a sense of how you react and respond to the specific challenges nurses tend to face. Asking behavioral and situational questions is a great way for your interviewer to assess your response.

STAR: The #1 Strategy for Answering Scenario-Based Nursing Interview Questions

When giving your responses in a job interview, it’s important to stay focused and on point. If you’ve had trouble with this in the past, you may want to consider trying the STAR interview technique . STAR stands for:

By following this response structure, you’ll be able to organize your thoughts in a more coherent way, whether you’re speaking from past experience or imagining yourself in a hypothetical situation. Here’s how to formulate a thorough response:

• Situation : State the specific situation, as you understand it. This way, it’s clear what you’re responding to. If you’re speaking from past experience, connect it to the situation presented in the question.
• Task : Explain the steps that would need to be done, in order, so you come across as organized.
• Action : Describe how you’d implement the steps.
• Result : Share the result you would expect to happen. If speaking from experience, also share what did happen.

If you’ve been asked a situational question but you’ve had experience with a similar scenario, you can answer it as a situational response and segue into the fact that you had something similar happen. Then, you can set up your behavioral scenario. This is a way to share your experience after answering the question to back up your point.

How to Answer Nursing Interview Questions About Your Clinical Care Experience

This is perhaps the most common type of scenario-based question that arises during nursing job interviews . Your interviewer will want to know how you’d care for patients under different circumstances, including worst-case scenarios. You may be asked questions or given hypothetical situations like:

• “A supervisor has directed you to take a specific course of care, but you disagree that this is the best way to treat the patient. How would you approach the situation?”
• “What would you do if a critically ill patient isn’t responding to the treatment they’re receiving while under your care?”

Your interviewer will get a sense of your clinical expertise, problem-solving skills, and critical-thinking skills when you explain what you would do and why. If you’ve treated patients in similar circumstances, it’s fine to bring your previous personal experience into the equation, although this isn’t necessary. Your responses will offer insight into your care philosophy and the way you think on your feet.

Examples of Nursing Interview Scenarios Questions & Answers

When your interviewer asks a scenario question, present your answer like a clinical case study. The goal is to show you can:

• Understand the patient’s background and medical history
• Clearly describe their symptoms
• Assess the situation to identify potential causes and appropriate next steps
• Anticipate possible complications and how to handle them
• Provide the expected or desired outcome for evaluation

The STAR method gives you a good framework for this approach. To see what it looks like in practice, we asked Sarah K. Wells, MSN, RD, CEN, CNL, and Theresa Brown, PhD, RN, to give examples of how they’d answer questions about hypothetical scenarios:

Sample nursing scenario question 1:

“A patient who has been complaining of chest pain suddenly wants to leave the hospital, saying they feel better. What are your next steps?”

Sample nursing scenario answer in STAR format:

When a patient whose symptoms may suggest a heart attack wants to leave the hospital without treatment, it’s important to find out why and do everything possible to ensure they make the best decision for their health. I’d ask questions so I could understand what the patient is thinking and feeling and gently explain the potential complications of refusing treatment. If needed, I’d also adjust their environment so they feel more secure and comfortable enough to stay and receive care.

Sample nursing scenario question 2:

“A critically ill patient who has undergone recent abdominal surgery is striking a fever of 101, and it’s rising. What are your next steps?”

A fever in a patient fresh out of post-op indicates potential problems like an infection at the incision site or malignant hyperthermia. To determine the cause, I’d review the patient’s chart and talk with the outgoing nurse to get a thorough history that includes the patient’s age, physical condition, and any chronic conditions that could increase their risk of complications.

After assessing the patient, I’d call the provider and anticipate any necessary bloodwork and medications. I’d assess how the patient responded after each intervention, watch for adverse reactions, and update the provider about lab results that could affect the course of treatment.

How to Answer Nursing Interview Questions About Your Communication Style

Good nurses are excellent communicators. They need to be understood by patients and patients’ relatives as well as by doctors and other members of the care team. You may be given scenarios like these in your nursing interview and asked to explain how you would handle them in a clinical setting. We’re providing three examples since communication issues pop up in numerous ways:

Sample communication scenario question 1:

“If your patient’s relatives don’t understand what you’re telling them about their child’s illness and treatment plan, how would you change your communication style?”

Sample communication scenario answer:

I sometimes encounter family members who don’t understand the medical information I’m sharing, which can be due to challenges like language barriers and varying levels of health literacy. It’s important to meet them where they are and use language they understand, so I’d start by creating the best environment for the conversation, including calling in an interpreter if necessary. Then, I’d give the family time to ask questions so I could directly address their concerns. After we talked, I’d make sure they could repeat back what I just explained to show they have enough details to feel confident they are making the best treatment decisions for their child.

Sample communication scenario question 2:

“How would you care for a patient whose opinions and choices related to their medical care differ starkly from your own?”

When a patient wishes to pursue an alternative treatment path, it’s my job to provide factual, evidence-based information to guide them toward the choices that are best for their immediate goals and long-term health. After asking questions to clarify what they understand about available treatments, I’d explain the typical standard of care for their situation and lay out the potential risks of rejecting treatment. I’d gently discourage them from making choices that could worsen their condition and work with them to create a treatment plan that best addresses their needs while still respecting their point of view.

“What would you do in an emergency situation if the attending doctor misunderstood the patient history you just shared with them?”

A doctor is taking in and processing a lot of information in an emergency and may miss something important that could impact the patient’s health. To ensure the patient receives the best care, I’d take responsibility for not being clear and repeat or rephrase the critical details clearly and respectfully. If the doctor still doesn’t seem to understand, I’d be more insistent while maintaining a nonconfrontational tone. I’d continue to discuss the patient’s condition until I am sure the doctor understands and is equipped to offer the most appropriate treatment.

As you answer these types of questions, your interviewer will assess your ability to communicate clearly, get points across easily, and identify when alternate communication styles may be needed.

How to Answer Nursing Interview Questions About how you Handle Stressful Situations

Because stressful situations are commonplace for nurses, your interviewer will want to know how you would respond to different stress-inducing scenarios. You may be asked questions or given hypothetical situations like:

• “What would you do if your patient suddenly and unexpectedly has difficulty breathing?”
• “How would you manage patient care and complete your daily tasks if your unit is one nurse short and you have considerably more patients than usual?”

Here’s an example of how to answer a question about a particularly stressful situation involving a young patient:

Sample stressful scenario question:

“If a patient’s mother is sobbing over her son’s traumatic injury right in front of him and you can see that her outburst is upsetting him, what would you do?”

Sample stressful scenario answer:

It’s common for parents to be upset, confused, or overwhelmed when their child is sick or injured. The top priority is to ensure a safe, calm environment for the child, so I’d start by checking his physical and emotional state. Then I’d ask the mom if she’d like to get coffee, and I’d walk with her to give her time to talk and calm down. If appropriate, I’d offer to be there as a willing ear or call in someone from spiritual services to support her throughout her child’s treatment.

Sometimes, parents don’t want to leave the room, in which case I’d try to turn the mom’s attention to something else like a TV show or a conversation with her son. In either situation, the best outcome is for both the parent and child to feel calm and supported.

Your interviewer will want to know that you can identify priorities, adapt quickly to change, stay organized, and delegate tasks to other members of the care team as needed so you can provide patients with the best care possible.

How to Answer Nursing Interview Questions About Triage Scenarios

One common way for your interviewer to assess your problem-solving skills, experience, and confidence levels is by asking you to triage three or four hypothetical patients who have different health conditions. You may be asked questions or given scenarios like:

Sample triage scenario question:

“You have three patients in your care: someone who is being treated for heart palpitations, someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis, and someone who is bleeding from a deep wound. How would you triage these patients?”

Sample triage scenario answer:

When faced with triage decisions for patients with conditions at varying levels of urgency, it’s critical to determine who has the most serious medical needs. I’d start by assessing the bleeding patient to determine the location of the wound and how much it is bleeding. If the patient is bleeding a lot from a critical area, I’d apply a dressing or tourniquet right away.

Then I’d ask the mental health patient questions to determine whether they are considering self-harm or suicide, and I’d remove anything from the room that they might use to harm themselves. I’d finish by checking the patient with heart palpitations for signs of any serious symptoms. I would ensure that the most urgent case receives immediate care.

It’s important that you explain your reasons for triaging patients so your interviewer can better understand your thought processes. Your answer will reveal your clinical expertise and your values, which will help your interviewer determine whether you’d be a good fit for the position.

The Importance of Having the Right Malpractice Insurance on Your Side

Once you have the job, it’s important to think about nursing malpractice insurance . There’s no doubt that nursing is a high-stress, high-risk, and high-reward profession. So the job offer you accept should provide adequate medical malpractice insurance. While many nurses feel they are free from being named in lawsuits , the fact is that more malpractice claims are naming the entire medical care team — and many workplace policies do not cover licensing board cases . Plus, having your own policy from a top-rated insurer can cost as little as $87 a year.

Read real stories of professionals getting named in claims or board actions

Let Berxi be part of your possible and get a free quote today .

Final Thoughts

It’s not always possible to plan responses to clinical scenario interview questions, especially if your interviewer is very creative or asks complex hypothetical questions. But it can be helpful to go into your nursing interview with a few work-related stories in mind that you can share in your responses.

Consider specific moments when you’ve had to show your leadership, make quick decisions, overcome communication challenges, or work with a patient who had a special circumstance. Clearly think through the important details you would want to share.

Sharing details about a previous clinical experience can also be a good way to demonstrate your personality because it may be easier for you to relax and explain what you’ve already done than to imagine what you might do. But you can let your personality shine through when you answer any scenario-based questions, even without including personal anecdotes.

Always respond thoughtfully and honestly, and let your interviewer know that you carefully consider every decision you’ve make when it comes to patient care.

Looking for more help preparing for a nursing job interview? Set yourself up for success with these other resources from the Berxi blog:

• How to Prepare For a Nursing Interview
• 15 Questions to Ask During a Nursing Interview
• 40+ Questions to Ask at the Job Offer Stage

Experts who helped with this guide include:

• Sarah K. Wells, MSN, RN, CEN, CNL , nurse career strategist and founder of New Thing Nurse , a professional and academic coaching company for the nursing community
• Theresa Brown, PhD, RN , nurse and writer, New York Times bestselling author of The Shift: One Nurse, Twelve Hours, Four Patients’ Lives and Healing: When a Nurse Becomes a Patient
• Laurie G. Combe, MN, RN, NCSN , president-elect of the National Association of School Nurses
• Nancy Freeland, MS, RN-BC, CCRN-K , a senior nurse educator for adult critical care nursing at the University of Rochester’s Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New York, and a former member of the Board of Directors of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
• Elizabeth Rochin, PhD, RN, NE-BC , president of the National Perinatal Information Center
• Seun Ross, DNP, MSN, CRNP-F, NP-C, NEA-BC , Executive Director, Health Equity, Independence Blue Cross

Image courtesy of iStock.com/ nortonrsx

Last updated on Feb 29, 2024. Originally published on Feb 14, 2019.

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• Career Growth

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Guide Contents

• How Do I Prepare for a Nursing Interview?
• "Tell Me About Yourself" — How to Respond & What to Avoid Saying
• How to Talk About Your Strengths & Weaknesses
• The Best Questions to Ask Employers During a Nursing Interview
• Sample ER Nurse Interview Questions to Prepare For
• Sample ICU Nurse Interview Questions to Prepare For
• Sample Labor & Delivery Nurse Interview Questions to Prepare For
• Sample Pediatric Nurse Interview Questions to Prepare For
• Sample School Nurse Interview Questions to Prepare For

41 Registered Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

As the healthcare industry continues to flourish, the role of a Registered Nurse (RN) becomes increasingly pivotal. With the responsibility of not only providing patient care but also functioning as a critical component of the medical team, RNs must be adept in both technical skills and interpersonal communication.

The objective of this page is to fully equip aspiring Registered Nurses with the tools they need to excel in job interviews. Through a compilation of 41 carefully curated interview questions, paired with insightful answers, we delve into the critical thinking, technical knowledge, and compassionate mindset essential to the nursing profession.

Whether you’re a recent graduate entering the workforce, an experienced nurse looking for new opportunities, or transitioning into a specialized area of healthcare, these questions and answers are designed to reflect the breadth of situations you might encounter during the hiring process.

We’ve organized everything into categories, covering clinical skills, patient care, communication, teamwork, ethical questions, and scenarios that reveal your ability to handle stress and critical thinking. This guide is more than a list; it is a comprehensive preparation tool for one of the most important steps in advancing your nursing career.

Let’s begin this journey by examining the high-impact questions you can anticipate and the articulate responses that could set you apart from the competition.

Related : RN Interview Thank You Email After Interview

41 Common Registered Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

1. tell me about yourself., 2. can you tell us about your experience as a registered nurse, 3. what specific skills do you bring to the rn position, 4. how do you ensure patient safety and confidentiality, 5. how do you ensure patient safety and prevent medical errors, 6. how do you stay updated with the latest healthcare developments and evidence-based practices, 7. how do you handle conflicts and disagreements with colleagues or other healthcare professionals, 8. how do you prioritize patient care in a fast-paced environment, 9. how do you handle challenging patients or difficult situations, 10. how do you stay updated with current nursing practices and advancements, 11. how do you maintain confidentiality, 12. what strategies do you use to deal with heavy workloads, 13. can you provide an example of a time you went above and beyond for a patient, 14. how do you incorporate patient and family education into your care, 15. describe how you’ve contributed to a positive workplace environment., 16. how do you handle stressful situations in the workplace, 17. have you worked with electronic health record (ehr) systems what’s your experience, 18. how do you approach end-of-life care, 19. how do you stay resilient and prevent burnout, 20. how do you handle receiving constructive feedback, 21. can you tell us about your experience with a complex patient case, 22. how do you advocate for your patients, 23. what is your approach to dealing with patients who are non-compliant with their care, 24. describe a situation where you had to intervene quickly in a patient emergency., 25. how do you contribute to a collaborative healthcare team, 26. can you discuss your experience with palliative and hospice care, 27. how do you handle working with limited resources, 28. how do you assess and manage pain, 29. what role do you think technology plays in modern nursing, 30. how do you approach ethical dilemmas in patient care, 31. what inspired you to pursue a career in nursing, 32. why do you want to work as a registered nurse for our hospital, 33. why should we hire you, 34. why are you the right fit to succeed in this role, 35. share a difficult situation you faced. how did you handle it, 36. what do you consider to be your biggest professional achievement, 37. what is your greatest strength as a nurse, 38. what is your greatest weakness as a nurse, 39. where do you see yourself in five years, 40. what are your salary expectations, 41. do you have any questions for me.

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• RN Cover Letter
• Registered Nurse Reference Letter

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Nursing Interview Questions and Answers: What to Expect

Sample Nursing Interview Questions and Answers

1. what drew you to the nursing profession, 2. tell me about a time you caused a conflict without meaning to., 3. talk about a time when you stepped into a leadership role., 4. how do you communicate with people who don’t know medical jargon what’s an example of a time you explained medical terminology to someone, 5. what can you bring to our team, 6. tell me about a time when a patient or their family was dissatisfied with your care. how did you handle that, 7. describe a time where you were effective at educating a patient and their family., 8. tell me about a time when you were able to anticipate potential problems with a patient and prevent a problem., 9. give an example of when a time when you helped a patient with decision-making. how did you educate and support the patient, 10. how would you handle an awkward situation with a work colleague, like working closely with someone you found difficult, star method for nursing interview questions, “do you have any questions for me”.

• How would you describe the culture here?
• What would a successful first year in this position look like to you?
• How will my performance be evaluated?
• How will a new person in this role be trained?
• Are there any reservations you still have about whether I’m fit for this role that I could sort out now?

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A Guide to Answering Critical-Thinking Questions in Nursing Interviews

When it comes to interviews in the nursing field, employers often ask critical-thinking questions to assess a candidate’s problem-solving and analytical abilities. These questions aim to evaluate a nurse’s capacity for thinking and making reasoned decisions even in high-pressure scenarios. To assist you in preparing for your nursing interview, this guide will offer tips on effectively responding to critical thinking questions.

Understanding Critical Thinking

Before we dive into strategies for answering nursing interview questions , let’s establish an understanding of what critical thinking entails. Critical thinking involves the process of analysing information, evaluating evidence, and employing reasoning to reach informed conclusions. In the context of nursing, having critical thinking skills is crucial for providing high-quality patient care and responding promptly to emergencies.

Preparing for Critical Thinking Questions in Nursing Interviews

The following are some of the essential steps to preparing yourself for the critical thinking questions you might be asked at a nursing interview:

1. Reviewing Case Studies : Familiarize yourself with cases by studying case studies related to your specific area of expertise. This practice will help you become adept at identifying issues, considering solutions, and making informed decisions within strict time constraints.

2. Reflecting on Experiences : Take some time to reflect on situations you have encountered during your clinical rotations or previous nursing positions. Consider the steps you took, the outcomes you achieved, and how you could have approached the situation differently. Reflecting on these experiences will help enhance your critical thinking skills.

3. Staying Updated with Current Best Practices : Keep yourself informed about the trends and best practices in nursing by reading articles, attending conferences or webinars, or engaging in professional development activities. Having knowledge of evidence-based practices will demonstrate your dedication to providing top-notch care.

4. Practicing Interviews : Seek assistance from a friend or mentor to conduct practice interviews that include critical thinking questions commonly asked in nursing interviews. Practice responding thoughtfully and concisely while ensuring clarity in your answers.

Effectively Addressing Critical Thinking Questions

Once the interview is underway, responding effectively to the questions can play a huge role in the outcome:

1. Analyse the Question : Take a moment to comprehend the question before answering it. Identify any keywords that provide hints about what the interviewer is seeking. Break down the question into its components and ensure that you consider all factors before formulating your response.

2. Utilise the STAR Method : Structure your responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to deliver a concise and well-organised answer. Begin by describing the situation or problem at hand, then explain the task assigned to you. Afterwards, describe the steps you took to address the problem and conclude with the result or outcome you achieved.

3. Give Specific Examples : Support your responses with examples from your experiences. This not only demonstrates your ability to apply critical thinking in real-life situations but also provides evidence of your skills to potential employers.

4. Highlight Communication Skills : Effective communication plays a role in critical thinking within the nursing field. Showcase your communication abilities by expressing your thoughts and ideas during the interview. Use simple language and avoid using technical jargon when explaining complex concepts or medical terms.

5. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Clarification : If you come across a critical thinking question that appears unclear or ambiguous, don’t hesitate to ask for an explanation from the interviewer. This shows that you actively listen and are committed to understanding the question before formulating your answer.

6. Stay Calm and Collected : Critical thinking questions can sometimes be challenging or require thinking on your feet. Remain composed throughout the interview process, demonstrating confidence in your capacity to approach situations thoughtfully and make decisions under pressure.

Mastering the skill of responding to critical thinking questions during nursing interviews is crucial for showcasing your problem-solving and analytical abilities as a nurse. By following these suggestions and consistently practising, you can make a great impression on potential employers by providing well-thought-out responses that effectively demonstrate your critical thinking abilities. So, make sure to examine case studies, reflect on experiences, stay updated with current best practices and engage in mock interviews to prepare yourself thoroughly. When addressing questions, make sure to analyse them, utilise the STAR method, provide examples, highlight your communication skills, seek clarification when needed, and maintain composure throughout. By doing so, you will leave an impact and significantly enhance your chances of securing that desired nursing job. Best of luck!

Also Read: 7 Reasons for the Shortage of Nurses in the US

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Nursing Interview Questions and Answers

Your certification , your readiness for the job , your personality and attitude to work –the HR managers will try to understand all of them while talking to you in an interview. Screening, behavioral and technical questions (questions related to the practical aspects of your job) will help them to get a good grasp of both your personality and skills. In this article we will have look the questions you can expect to get in your interview, describe why the interviewers use each question, and suggest you a good answer to each question.

* This article is dedicated to nursing jobs in general, including CNA, registered nurse, and other nursing jobs. We focus primarily on questions they use in the interviews in the United States, but you will get similar questions anywhere in the world, while trying to get a nursing position. For other jobs in healthcare, please check our section for healthcare & pharma jobs .

Table of Contents

Why do you want to work as a nurse?

The job of a nurse is demanding, both mentally and physically. Unless you have the right motives, unless you apply because you desire to help the people, and unless doing that makes you happy in life, you won’t be a great nurse, and you won’s sustain the pressure for a long time.

Try to focus on your desire to help the others, or perhaps on your personal experience with nurses (from your childhood), nurses who became your role models and motivated you to purse this career.

Try to avoid connecting your answer to the past, saying that you apply because you have spent years studying nursing. Connecting your job choice with your studies would indicate a must, not a desire to have the job… For 7 sample answers to this icebreaker question, check “Why nursing?” interview question .

What are your core values?

Another question that targets your personality. Core values–we all have them, but sometimes we are not even aware of them. Nevertheless, they are the most important thing in our life, because all our thoughts, emotions, and deeds stream from them.

Try to talk about sympathy, equality, good health, sense for community, responsibility, etc in your interview. Show us that you have the right system of values, a system that will help you to overcome a crisis of motivation, which everyone experiences at some point…

What is your attitude to old people? Do you like to spend time with them?

Unless you work at a children hospital, you will take care of old people. The older we get, the more prone we are to illnesses. One of the sad spectacles we see in hospitals is the way the nurses treat old people. Speaking from experience and from what I’ve seen in the hospitals, many nurses do not approach these people with an appropriate respect and dignity.

You should be ready to treat every patient, and if you actually apply for a job in a nursing home, you should suggest that you prefer to work with old people, that you consider it your mission to help them enjoy the winter of their life. Show us that you care, that you do not make difference between young and old, that your attitude to life and work goes beyond your personal preferences.

Special Tip : Download a full list of questions in .PDF format , and practice your interview answers anytime later:

Do you have a goal in your life? If yes, what it is?

Responsible people typically have goals, either in their professional or personal life (or in both). Goals help us to see the purpose of our work, to keep going, to work hard.

Nurses should not aim for promotion, because that’s not how it works in this field of healthcare. You should focus mostly on your personal goals, such as achieving a healthy life-work balance, starting a family, or basically becoming a good nurse. You can even say that your goal is simply to enjoy every day that’s given to you, do a good job, and be a good person outside of work.

Do you like to talk to people? What topics for conversation do you like the most?

Good nurses do not treat only the body of their patients. They understand that our soul, our emotions and feelings, are equally important if we speak about healing. Good nurse helps the patients to feel welcome, secure, respected, and recognized, while they are “forced” to stay in the hospital, or a nursing home.

You can actually say that you prefer listening to talking, and that you always try to encourage the patients to recall good memories, or that you basically choose topics that will help the patients to forget their problems for a while, to set their mind the right way, to bring peace to their souls…

* Do not forget to check also: Nursing interview – What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Imagine you knew a patient had little or no chances of surviving the night, and they were crying and lamenting that they did not want to die. What would you do to ease their suffering?

A tricky question indeed. While you should try your best to help the patient, you should not neglect the other patients because of them. You are a nurse, not a savior. And you should not cross some borders.

Nevertheless, try to convince us that you know how to address even this difficult situation. You can say that you would try to encourage them, that you would listen to them, and be there for them, so they can feel your presence and support in the difficult situation of their life, in the last moments of their earthly existence.

* Special Tip: What if I told you that you can practice your answers to all tricky nursing interview questions, getting an immediate feedback from a life-like AI interview coach ? And that you can start doing it for free , and it is a lot of fun too? 🙂 Check out this page on our partner website , Real Mock Interviews, pick a question, enter your email, and start practicing for free , either on your mobile phone or on your computer. Check it out now and see for yourself!

You have a little child to care for during the night shift. It is late in night, but the child can not sleep. What will you do?

Each nurse carries an instinct of a mother within them. Children are the most sensitive patients, and it is good to show us that you do not take their cries lightly. Tell us that you will talk to them, perhaps read them a short story, that you will do your best for every child.

In each your answer you should try to demonstrate that you care for the patients, that you do not only administer injections and pills, but also try to help the patients to cope with their suffering. That’s the attitude we want to find in a great applicant for the nursing job.

Do you have any role model in your life? What do you like the most about your role model?

Here you have two options. You can either pick a positive role model, and ideally one that is connected to the nursing profession. Perhaps someone from your family had this job, and they were really good at it. Or you know a doctor who treats their patients exceptionally well. You can also talk about someone from the sphere of charity and philanthropy, ideally a person your interviewers will know (there are many famous philanthropists).

Alternatively you can say that you do not consider anyone your role model, that you basically look up to all people who live their life responsibly, and try to live in harmony with the others, and help them.

Imagine a mother of one of your patient complained about the care their child received in the hospital. How would you handle the situation?

When our child, parent, or friend ends up in a hospital bed, we wish only the best for them. The relatives of the patients will sometimes complain, and we have to understand them. Sometimes they struggle to cope with the situation more than the patients do…

Show us that you understand their emotions, that a bad word or a complaint won’t affect you negatively in job, and that you are ready to hear any criticism, and respond with love and understanding…

Is there anything you do not like about the job of a nurse?

Nursing is not an easy profession. How difficult it becomes, however, depends primarily on your own attitude. How you approach the patients, how you cope with different situations that happen in the hospital, whether you see the meaningful purpose in the work you do, etc.

You should not wear pink glasses, you should see your job realistically. Tell us that you expect difficult situations to happen, for example conflicts with the patients, long shifts and physical tiredness, inability to help someone, etc. At the same time, however, you should emphasize that you count with experiencing these things, and that they won’t result in a loss of your motivation in work.

What do you think makes you a good nurse?

There are many good answers to this question. You can either say that you have a strong feeling for the sufferers, that you see this job as your personal mission, and that this mindset reflects in everything you do in job.

Or you can list some abilities and personal traits that characterize each good nurse (we talked about them in another answer on this page). Alternatively you can point out your education, qualification, experience, and many satisfied patients you have helped during your nursing career ( * the third option applies only to nurses with experience ).

Two patients are demanding your attention at the same time. You are the only nurse on a shift at the moment. What will you do?

This situation rarely happens in a hospital or clinic, because there are always at least two nurses on a shift. But it can happen in theory, and you should show us that you know how to address it.

The good answer is that you will quickly inspect the condition of the first patient, and evaluate if they needed your immediate attention, then you will do the same thing with the second patient, and you will progress accordingly (eventually helping the one who was in a more serious condition, and then attending the other patient).

Other things do also matter in your interview

At the end of the day, job interview is a talk of two people (or sometimes more people, if you interview in front of a panel, which happens often in a clinical environment).

Great answers to the questions of the interviewers represent a foundation stone of your success, but other things matter as well .  Can you win the interviewers over? Can you convince them that you are better than the other applicants for the job, that they should choose you, and not someone else? Do they enjoy the time with you in an interview?

Every word matters, every detail counts . Continue your preparation with Interview Penguin (check one of the links below), and get ready to ace your interview.

Continue preparing for your nursing interview, reading one of the following articles:

• What does nursing mean to you? 7 sample answers to this interesting questions.
• Why should we hire you as a nurse? Learn how to answer one of the most-dreaded questions.
• Nursing interview – Tell me about yourself .
• Recent Posts

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MockQuestions

Critical Care Nurse Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your Critical Care Nurse interview, here are 30 interview questions and answer examples.

Critical Care Nurse was updated by Ryan Brunner on January 31st, 2023. Learn more here.

Question 1 of 30

Do you feel like you have strong relationship-building skills?

How to Answer

Entry level example, answer example, experienced example.

Community Answers

Building strong relationships is essential for the success of any business. The healthcare industry is no exception. Share why you think you have good relationship-building skills.

"I do feel like I have good relationship-building skills. I like people and enjoy getting to know them."

"I have often been complimented on my relationship-building skills. I like to get to know people and ask them questions about themselves; I find it's a great and simple way to start building rapport with others. I consider myself a strong relationship builder and take pride in my people skills."

"I believe I have strong relationship-building skills. I value the opinions of others and try to show respect to them. I find that having a caring attitude and a willingness to learn about others helps build relationships."

Anonymous Answer

Cindy's Feedback

Next Question

30 Critical Care Nurse Interview Questions & Answers

Below is a list of our Critical Care Nurse interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 8 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.

Table of Contents

• 1.   Behavioral Questions
• 2.   Compatibility Questions
• 3.   Competency Questions
• 4.   Direct Questions
• 5.   Discovery Questions
• 6.   Diversity Questions
• 7.   EQ Questions
• 8.   Job Satisfaction Questions
• 9.   Organizational Questions
• 10.   Problem Solving Questions
• 11.   Salary Questions
• 12.   Stress Questions
• 13.   Technical Questions

1. Do you feel like you have strong relationship-building skills?

Written by Heather Douglass

Written by Darby Faubion

Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

2. have you ever been in a situation in which a co-worker put a patient in jeopardy if so, how did you handle it.

If you have ever been faced with a situation that resulted in you having to make a judgment call that may have affected the job of a friend or co-worker, you know how disheartening it can be. However, nurses are bound by law to protect patients and co-workers by reporting anything inappropriate or dangerous. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying and reporting a situation if needed.

"I have never been in a situation that required me to report a co-worker. Honestly, I hope I never experience a situation like that."

"I have experienced a time that I had to report a co-worker to my supervisor. One of my peers had a diabetic patient who had an insulin order per sliding scale. The nurse gave insulin to the patient without checking his blood sugar level first. She told me and asked me not to tell anyone. However, I knew that patient safety is the responsibility of everyone. So, I did notify the supervisor."

"When I worked at a long-term care facility, one of my co-workers was using a lift to transfer a patient. He did not have the belt fastened correctly, and the patient slipped onto the floor. This was an accident that could have been prevented. I had to write an incident report and turn the situation over to a supervisor."

3. Have you ever received negative feedback, and how did you handle it?

Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. The important thing to remember when answering this question is don't talk negatively about the person who gave you the feedback. Rather state what was said and how you grew from the event.

"I once received negative feedback when I was working the ER. One of my patient's mother was very upset that her child was not being treated as quickly as she thought and she complained to my supervisor that I was not doing my job. After talking with the supervisor, I asked if I could spend some extra time with the patient and his mother so that she could experience the good care that we give. Fear and uncertainty is often a reason that people lash out. Sometimes a gentle word is all that one needs to help relieve a stressful situation."

"I remember when I first began my nursing career, I thought I had to do everything for everyone. I ended up taking on too many tasks and falling behind with my assignments. One of my supervisors told me that a patient had complained because I seemed too rushed and asked for a new nurse to be assigned to her. I was so embarrassed because I didn't want anyone to feel like I couldn't do my job. I apologized to the supervisor and to my patient and explained that I had taken on some extra assignments, but that I didn't mean to make her feel neglected. When I apologized, the patient agreed to let me continue caring for her. I learned from that experience that it's ok to want to give more, but that I should not stretch myself too thin and risk compromising patient care."

"I am sure that anyone who works in the healthcare industry for any amount of time will learn that receiving negative feedback is not always a truly 'negative' thing. People respond to situations differently. I recall I once received a negative rating on one of my evaluations. It was a disheartening experience because I really pride myself on doing good work. I scheduled a time to sit and talk with my supervisor and understand his point of view with regard to the negative rating and made a plan of action to improve on the issue."

4. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information regarding a patient's care.

Working within the medical career field you are trusted with sensitive information each day. Don't fall into this trap and answer this question with a story containing confidential information, people will view your answer negatively and view you as not being trustworthy. If you choose to tell about a situation be sure to be vague and not use names or too many details.

"I am expected to keep all information confidential every day, so there is not just one instance that I can refer to. I believe in practicing within legal and ethical bounds and keeping patient's confidence is one way I do that."

"I'm trusted with confidential information every day. I make a point to leave my work at work and not discuss patients outside of the office. By not discussing confidential information about the patients I'm ensuring that I'm not breaking any rules and giving information to those that are not on a need to know basis."

"Every day I work is an example of me being trusted with confidential information. HIPAA regulations were set in place with good reason and I appreciate the idea behind them. I strive to stay well within the bounds of legality with regard to patient privacy."

Rachelle's Feedback

Compatibility

5. Do you participate in any outreach or volunteer work?

Although being a community volunteer is not a requirement for employment, willingness to give your time and resources to others without compensation shows the interviewer that you have a sincere desire to serve others. If you have volunteered, share a positive experience you had as a volunteer. If you have not volunteered, it is not necessary to embellish your answer. Stating that you have not volunteered previously will not disqualify you from employment.

"I have volunteered at MedCamps for kids a few summers. I do think community involvement is important."

"I love to volunteer! A group of ladies from my church volunteer at a soup kitchen close to my home once a month. There is nothing like giving to someone you know cannot give back to you! Are there opportunities for employees to volunteer through the hospital?"

"I serve on the admissions committee for my university and have done so at various institutions over the past ten years. I'm on several other committees, as well. I also make it a habit to do outreach to support groups and health fairs."

6. Do you feel comfortable working with clinical nursing students in the critical care setting?

While not every nurse is required to mentor students, most healthcare facilities have nursing and other healthcare students who rotate through different departments to achieve their required training hours. If you are comfortable mentoring or would like an opportunity, this is a good time to share that with the interviewer.

"I am new to critical care, and although I have every confidence in my skills, I think I would prefer to have a little more personal experience as a critical care nurse before I mentor students in that area."

"I would love to mentor students! At my previous employment, clinical students were assigned only to those nurses in supervisory positions. I understand the reason for scheduling students with supervisors but always hoped to have an opportunity to precept students."

"I do feel comfortable mentoring students in critical care. When I worked at my previous employer, several rotations of clinical students came through our various departments. I always volunteered to be a mentor and would love the opportunity to do it again."

7. What are some aspects of your specialty that make it unique compared to other specialties?

This question gives the interviewer a chance to see your thoughts regarding being a critical care nurse. There is no right or wrong answer to this question. This is another opportunity to show what you thought was special about this specialty that led you to choose it as a career.

"I am new to critical care, so I may not be qualified to make comparisons. I feel comfortable saying that I chose to work in critical care because I have a focused interest in pathophysiology and its associated medical conditions and treatments. I also have a desire to assist patients in critical situations, whether it is to optimize their health or, at least to make end-of-life a gentler process for all involved."

"I suppose all nurses could tell one thing or another that makes us feel like the area we work in is unique. All nursing departments have their own uniqueness."

8. Nurses at our facility often work on rotation. Are you willing to work, nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?

Being flexible with the schedule you are willing to work is always a plus. However, many people work more than one job or have a one parent home which requires them to have a flexible schedule. Others simply prefer to work one shift rather than another. Being upfront with the interviewer about what schedule suits your preference could help prevent conflict later on. It is easier to plan a schedule you can agree on than it is to fix problems that arise due to fear of being rejected. Be honest and direct.

"While I am not unopposed to working overtime or extended schedules such as holidays, I would like to have the opportunity to spend time with small children, as well."

"I am not married and have no children at this time. So, I am pretty flexible with my schedule. If I had a choice, I would prefer the late shift, as I am a bit of a night owl. However, I am excited about the opportunity to become a part of this team and am willing to work where I'm needed."

"Yes, I am prepared to work that type of schedule. My family and I always plan special events around my work schedule. Also, part of us giving back has always been that I like to offer to work some extra time for those who have small children or other responsibilities."

9. Have you ever considered relocation? If so, what area would you be willing to travel to?

While relocation may not be a determining factor for employment, larger companies almost always ask this question. The important thing to remember is if you are 100% confident that you are willing to relocate, answer yes. However, if there is any hesitation, there are ways to answer this question without an emphatic NO.

"I love to travel, so I am open to traveling for work. My goal is to find a position within a company where I can grow. So, if I am offered a position with your company, I would be happy to discuss what area I would be most valuable to the company."

"I have never really thought about relocating. However, I think it would be something I would consider within reason."

"I have not considered the idea of relocation. My parents are older, and my brother and I help one another care for them. I prefer to stay within a 50-mile radius of where I am located now, if possible."

10. Do you anticipate any significant changes in your life within the next two to three years that may prevent you from continuing employment here if you are offered a position here?

Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will allow the interviewer to evaluate two things - what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and if you are interested in having a long-term relationship within the company. Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated.

"My goal is to find a position that will allow me to work long term. I do not anticipate any significant changes that would affect that. I have family that lives nearby and close ties to the community."

"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance' just passed the Bar exam here and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our careers and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."

"I have no plans of relocating, and all of my family live close by. I have traveled before and have come to a place in my life where I want to find a stationary position and grow with a company. With those things in mind, I do not see a predictable circumstance that would cause me to be unable to continue employment."

11. Why do you think you are a good critical care nurse?

This is a chance for you to 'sell yourself' to the interviewer. Share what you think sets you apart from other critical care nurses who may be applying. Remember, be positive. Make sure to mention some of your personal qualities, such as compassion, rather than only your hard skills.

"I am passionate about being a good nurse and doing all I can to make a difference in the lives of my patients. I am a hard worker and believe in teamwork. I believe I could be an asset to the team of critical care nurses you have here."

"I am a very committed and dedicated to my job and helping those I am responsible for giving care to. I feel I will bring a great sense of passion for critical care to this job and look forward to being a part of such a great team of critical care nurses."

"Even after all these years I look forward to waking up each morning and getting to work and helping patients begin to heal and get better faster. I'm willing to work longer hours if needed, as well. Since I have no children or domestic responsibilities, I can come to work really early and leave late without any hassles."

12. Tell me a bit about yourself.

Critical care nurses work hands-on with patients in the worst conditions imaginable daily. On top of this, the high amount of pressure and stress in the workplace creates an environment that takes a very special individual to succeed. Knowing that they're getting a well-rounded and stable individual gives nursing managers confidence that the nurse they hire will come to their team with an infectious personality to win over patients and colleagues. In allowing you to talk about yourself, the interviewer is ideally looking to hear that you have the background and experience to survive and thrive in the fast-paced critical care environment and that you are caring, nurturing, and empathetic person by nature.

Written by Ryan Brunner on January 31st, 2023

"As you can see from my resume, I'm in the final year of my nursing program and very excited to hit the workforce with a reputable institution like yours. Having had clinical rotation opportunities in your CCU has led me to formally apply for a full-time role here. My fiance and I are excited to make this our forever home, where we can enjoy city life and stay close to our friends. We love to play sports throughout the year, including co-ed softball and volleyball. We also stay active by training for marathons, which keeps me in great shape for 12-hour shifts."

"Outside work, I'm a homebody who relaxes by training my dogs, taking them for long walks, and diving into great fiction novels. Family is the most important aspect of my life, and my two sisters are everything to me. I feel blessed to have three amazing nieces and nephews that I get to spend a lot of time with. From a professional perspective, nursing in the critical care setting has always been a dream of mine that started from an experience during middle school when my grandmother was in a CCU. Watching the staff provide professional and empathetic care was truly inspiring."

"If I'm fortunate enough to join your team as a critical care nurse, you'd be getting a down-to-earth and caring nurse that is the ultimate team player. My colleagues have always loved my ability to communicate clearly and lend a helping hand when needed, as these values were taught to me at a young age and carried into my career. Outside of work, my spouse and I volunteer at our church on the weekends and love to host get-togethers with our friends. I'm an avid cook and baker and love to donate tasty treats to organizations."

View This Question and Answers

13. What are your primary interests outside of work?

No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus which can result in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for you. Maybe you have a favorite pastime or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person.

"I really enjoy working out at the gym and, I also take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day."

"One of my favorite pastimes is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release any feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers."

"Although I love my work, I am definitely not married to it. I have children and grandchildren that I enjoy spending time with. I also like to travel when time is generous."

14. What would you consider your biggest weakness?

This is probably one of the most dreaded questions in a job interview. Answering this question requires self-evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a key characteristic needed to perform your job as a phlebotomist.

"One of my weaknesses is that I often get nervous around people I don't know. I know we all do that to a certain degree, but for me, it has become something I am aware of. I now try to attend social activities where I know there will be opportunities to meet new people so that I can overcome social anxiety."

"I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get sidetracked easily. I recognize that in myself and have made a conscious effort to plan my day as much as possible and to stay on target."

15. What is your greatest fear about being a critical care nurse?

We all have things that make us feel afraid from time to time. Recognizing them is the first step in overcoming them. This question is an opportunity for the interviewer to get to know you. Being willing to talk openly to someone about things like this shows your softer side, which is important when you are trying to build a good rapport during an interview.

"I think we all fear something on one level or another. I fear I may miss something when caring for a patient. At the end of the day, I want to go home knowing that I did everything I could to improve my patients' lives."

"My greatest fear about being a critical care nurse is that I am not learning and growing fast enough to save more people. I know we can't heal or save everyone, but as a nurse, I want to give everything I can to those who trust me with their care."

"Honestly, there is not a day that goes by that something doesn't cross my mind, and I wonder if I could have done more or taken a different approach to the type of care I give a patient. Of course, I give all I have and am very dedicated to my patients. I think it's just a natural fear of those who want to care for those who trust us with their well-being."

16. What would you say is your greatest strength as a critical care nurse?

Understanding one's own strengths and weaknesses is critical. It is always a good idea to read over the job description of the job for which you are applying while preparing for an interview. Compare your strengths to the required skills listed in the job overview highlight those when the interviewer asks this question.

"One of my strengths is definitely being able to multitask. Working critical care often means having several patients with multiple needs from medications to treatments. Being able to handle multiple tasks effectively, I believe, is essential as a critical care nurse."

"I believe being a critical care nurse requires several strengths. For me, personally, I am a very patient person and I feel like this is a skill that anyone providing critical care should practice."

"Communication skills are definitely among my greatest strengths. I believe that learning to communicate effectively with patients, family members, and peers is a crucial skill of anyone working in the healthcare industry, especially those of us who have chosen critical care as a specialty."

17. In your opinion, what personality type is best suited toward this specialty?

Each person you meet has his own personality. Certain jobs require specific characteristics of those who are performing the job. The interviewer really wants to know what you would consider a valuable characteristic or trait of someone who is providing care to critically ill patients.

"I believe nurses, as a whole, should have a caring and compassionate personality. We see people at their worst. They are sick and often afraid. It is up to us to be patient and kind as we are working and caring for others."

"Critical care seems to be a world of its own sometimes. We take care of some of the most fragile patients. I believe that someone who works in this specialty needs to be very compassionate and know how to exercise patience."

"I truly believe that a critical care nurse can have a great impact on a patient's recovery. It is more than giving medications or treatments. Having a strong work ethic and professional attitude is important. However, having an approachable, caring attitude helps patients feel more at ease which reduces the stresses that come along with being so critically ill."

18. What advice would you give to a nurse looking to enter your field of nursing?

When you are asked to share advice, remember to always be positive. Anyone can find a negative about something, and true enough, there are some days that are more difficult than others. The interviewer wants to know that you are confident about your decision, confident enough that you can share this with others.

"If I were to talk to someone considering the field of nursing, I would encourage them to have confidence in themselves and to go after their dreams passionately."

"I would tell someone considering this profession that there is so much more to this job than I ever could have imagined. I would say, the only limit to your potential in nursing is what you believe you can or cannot do. Never sell yourself, or your capabilities of bringing value to other's lives, short."

"If I were asked to give someone advice regarding the nursing field, I would tell them that knowledge and skills can be learned and developed. Passion, on the other hand, comes from within. I would encourage them to work hard and care just as hard."

19. Have you ever considered choosing a different career?

Many employee candidates are unsure of how to answer this question. Most feel that if they say they may have other interests that the interviewer will not recommend them for employment. This is not necessarily the case. This is simply an opportunity for the interviewer to get to know your interests.

"Actually, I had initially thought that I would become an attorney. There was just something about nursing and critical care that seemed to call me. I love what I do."

"I have never considered any career other than nursing. From the time I decided to go to nursing school, I knew I wanted to work with critical care patients. While I may consider taking additional classes at a later date, perhaps for a specialty certification, I have no intention of changing my career path."

"Becoming a nurse was the only thing I ever wanted to do. There are other areas that are interesting to me, but nothing that I would consider leaving this career for. I am quite happy with my choice of specialty and look forward to many more years of practice."

20. What makes you feel you will be a good fit for our organization?

Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you meet and exceed expectations with their organization. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.

"I feel I have the education and skills necessary to become an asset to your organization and I believe, given the opportunity, I can prove that."

"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."

"I believe my success with your organization will come from the years of experience I have regarding all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I have strong relationships with other providers within this region and stay informed about current practices."

21. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?

There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.

"If I were hiring someone, I would look for someone who is passionate about the job and about patient care. I also feel that being approachable and willing to learn is very important."

"I believe that honesty is important no matter what job title a person holds. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities, I feel, are essential when building rapport with patients and co-workers."

"We all possess different qualities and that is what makes a great team. If I were responsible for interviewing and hiring new employees,I would look for someone who has a genuine interest in the job and a desire to grow and learn. None of us knows everything there is to know about each disease or treatment. Being willing to learn and share what we've learned with one another makes us a better team and benefits our patients and those who will need care in the future."

22. Do you have experience working with peers from diverse backgrounds?

In an industry as large as healthcare, diversity among peers is inevitable. To be successful, it is crucial to learn how to work with a diverse group of people. Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, it is crucial to provide effective care. The interviewer wants to know that you are open to meeting and learning about new people and becoming an integral part of the team. Be positive with your response.

"The largest diverse group I worked with was probably when I did my clinical rotation at University Medical Center. I was afforded the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It gave me an eye-opening experience of how many wonderful people there are!"

"The diversity of specialty areas is something I love about the healthcare field. I like the idea of being in a career that challenges me to learn and grow. I believe we all have something that we can contribute to others and I like to embrace the diversity among those that I work with."

"Yes, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. I think one of the great things about the healthcare industry is that we have people from all backgrounds and walks of life who come together with the common interest of caring for others. I try to take advantage of opportunities to meet people and learn about them as much as possible."

23. In addition to providing care to seriously ill patients, critical care nurses must attend to stressed out family members. How do you approach offering support to family members?

Patients in a critical care unit are facing uncertain outcomes. Family and patient supporters are naturally fraught with fear and anxiety. Communicating your compassion and knack for comforting others will show a hiring official how well-rounded you are as a nursing professional.

"I know what it's like to be the family member who is worried about a loved one requiring critical care. I remember when my father was very ill. He had some nurses who were very kind and approachable. He had a few that were not so kind. I always try to remember how I felt when I was the one in need of support and to treat those family members with the same kind of respect and kindness that I wanted."

"Caring for family members often requires as much patients as caring for our patients. They are naturally afraid of a possible difficult outcome with regard to their loved ones. I always try to speak kindly and offer time to answer questions and give family members an opportunity to talk about what concerns them. While every day does not offer as much free time as others, a few minutes can often make a big difference to a concerned family member."

"Each family has a different dynamic. A skilled nurse tries to recognize the specific personalities of those for whom she is caring, as well as those of the loved ones. When time allows, I try to visit with the family members of my patients so that they know who is caring for their loved one and begin to build rapport with them. Having a good relationship between care providers and family members usually has a positive effect on the patient."

Job Satisfaction

24. What about your job as a critical care nurse gives you the most satisfaction?

We all have things that give us a feeling of accomplishment or satisfaction. The interviewer uses questions like this to get to know you, not just as a nurse, but as a person. Often the things that bring us satisfaction at work have a parallel in our personal lives that affect us in much the same way.

"I think one of the most satisfying feelings is when I see a patient who has Been in a critical state who begins to improve and smiles at me. Sometimes words aren't needed. A smile or a nod from someone to show that they are aware that I am there and are glad about it is a great feeling."

"As a critical care nurse one thing that really satisfies me is when I see a patient's health improve over the critical care days. As such I have a very extroverted nature and I make it a point to make ICU patients who are suffering from pain and trauma smile or laugh."

"There are so many things about this job that are satisfying to me. I love the feeling of caring for someone and knowing that I gave my all with regard to my job of providing for them. Sometimes patients or family members thank me for being there, and that means so much. I always want those that I care for to feel like nursing is not just a job to me, but it's part of who I am."

Organizational

25. Working with critical care requires a great deal of attention to detail and often multi-tasking. What do you do to help keep yourself from becoming overwhelmed?

Managing the care of a patient in a critical care unit requires the ability to multi-task and ensure all details are checked and double-checked. A critically ill patient may be sedated, have several I.V. pumps and require regular doses of varied medications. In a critical care nursing interview, discuss your understanding of the importance of maintaining detailed records, performing multiple assessments and handling medications and procedures efficiently and accurately.

"I have learned to recognize the things that may cause me to feel overwhelmed and try to address them before a situation gets out of hand. For example, I always like to make sure that all physician orders are clear before I begin a shift and report anything that seems to be out of order or any changes in patient status as they occur. This keeps things from piling up and leaving me feel overwhelmed later on."

"I am very detail-oriented. One of my strengths as a critical care nurse is to manage multiple medical tasks with the highest degree of excellence."

"Nursing does require the ability to multitask while handling situations that may create stress. I feel it is important to know our own personal strengths and weaknesses. For instance, I am very detail oriented and always write very detail nurse's notes. I like to make sure that I know what the patient goals for my shift are and make sure that I have a mental list of what needs to be done and in what order. It makes most situations less overwhelming."

Problem Solving

26. Do you feel you have good problem solving skills?

An interviewer knows the value of a critical care nurse with strong problem-solving skills. Each shift brings unexpected challenges and issues. Show your understanding and strength as a problem-solver. Further, explain how you know when a physician should be called in to help with the situation.

"I do feel like I have good problem-solving skills. I like to think outside of the box and try to find the best way to resolve a problem. I also try to remember that although my job requires skill, I am not expected to know everything. If I need to call a supervisor or the position to assist, I always set my pride aside and ask for help."

"Problem-solving is one of my strengths. I can move outside my emotions in a critical situation and use my cognitive ability to find a solution."

"I believe good problem-solving skills are essential for a critical care nurse. This is one skill that I feel is important to build upon daily. I always try to look at a situation and prioritize what needs to be done so that any small issues can be quickly resolved. I also feel that incorporating good teamwork and communication is important in problem-solving. It's always easier when more than one person is working to resolve a situation."

27. Salary is often commensurate with experience. How do you feel about someone with more experience than you having a higher salary but doing the same job?

Most employers do offer higher salary incentives to get more seasoned employees. This is not meant to devalue a person's knowledge or experience, but rather paying for more experience. It is important to note that the interviewer is not saying you will definitely make less than someone with more experience. Many times this question is to see how you respond and how badly you want a position. If an employee is willing to put in the work and earn the pay increase, employers often see them as someone worth investing in. This is a good time to ask what the beginning salary is and discuss options that are negotiable such as benefits and paid time off.

"I don't have a problem with someone who has more experience than me making a higher salary. I respect the experience that others have and know that I will have to prove myself."

"I realize that salaries are often determined by the amount of experience an applicant has. I appreciate the fact that employers recognize experience as a factor in determining pay and am willing to show that I am worthy."

"I understand that years of experience are often rewarded with higher earning. I feel, given the chance to demonstrate my knowledge and skills, you will find that I am capable of doing the job as well as some of the more experienced employees. Having said that, I will not turn down an offer of employment because of a difference in pay based on my present lack of experience. With that in mind, what benefits are available for someone coming on board with your company with my resume?"

28. Working in the ICU can be very stressful. What are some ways you manage stress on the job?

Providing care for critically ill patients is inherently stressful. Each shift presents what could be a life-or-death situation. A hiring official needs to know that you can handle stress. Moreover, how you handle it speaks volumes. In a critical care nursing interview, be prepared to provide examples of how stress impacts you.

"I have always taken time to examine how I feel after a shift and healthily deal with my emotions. I like to write, so I use that as an outlet for any feelings that need to be resolved."

"As a critical care nurse, I realize my care is crucial in patient outcomes. This is stressful, but I always try to compartmentalize my stress and channel it healthily. I have a strong support network, and yoga is my go-to stress reliever after a shift."

"Any job can be stressful at times. Working in critical care is especially stressful because we handle some of the most delicate patient care situations. I have learned that if I am working on an especially stressful case that it is ok to reach out to co-workers within the unit and ask for help when needed."

29. Why do you think critical care nurses often report experiencing 'burn out,' and what do you do to prevent that?

Being a healthcare provider is a great responsibility. Unfortunately, because of the great responsibility, many providers do report experiencing the need to take a break. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of handling stress and that you know when to ask for help.

"I had a great mentor when I was in nursing school. She told me if I didn't remember anything else she told me, that I should always remember to take care of myself. I have grown to understand what she meant. If we are bogged down physically and emotionally, it is easy to become overwhelmed and experience feeling burned out."

"I understand how some healthcare providers can experience burn out. It has nothing to do with wanting to change professions or leave a job. Sometimes it's just hard to lose patients or to feel like we can't save them all. I try to schedule myself some personal time, whether its a few days away when I am off work or going hiking. Anything to help create some balance in my life."

"Unfortunately, I can speak from experience about burn out. When I was a new nurse, I thought I could work all the time and that I was invincible. I lost several patients within a short period of time and the toll of the loss was very overwhelming to me. Since then, I have learned how to work hard, but to also work hard at caring for myself as well."

30. What is a risk that is associated with a patient being in critical care and being bed bound?

There are many risk factors associated with people who are ill. Being bed bound creates additional risks. A critical care nurse understands what risk factors patients in requiring critical care have. Share an example with the interviewer.

"One of the risks that are associated with critical care patients is the development of pneumonia. Being unable to move around and often having difficulty with respiration causes fluid to pool in the lungs and the development of pneumonia."

"Bedbound patients are at higher risk of developing decubitus ulcers, or pressure sores. This is because when a patient is in critical care and unable to move around, pressure is placed on the bony prominences of the body, such as the heels, buttocks, and shoulder blades. The pressure hinders blood flow and the result is damage to the tissue."

"There are a number of disorders associated with being in critical care. Some patients experience weight loss, muscle atrophy due to lack of use, pressure ulcers, or respiratory complications."

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15 Behavioral Interview Questions for Nurses

By Rebecca Smallwood, RN, MBA, and Elizabeth Snively , on February 6, 2024

Hiring new employees is always challenging, even when there are many seemingly qualified candidates. Hiring for roles with high turnover when the pool of candidates is shrinking — a continuing reality in nursing — is an even bigger challenge. In this article, we’ll look at how the behavioral interview technique can provide deeper insights to better inform your hiring decisions. We’ll also provide some sample behavioral interview questions for nurses that you can use and adapt to save time.

Given the current challenges associated with hiring nurses, it’s important to hire the best candidates the first time to minimize rehiring costs and avoid risk. A quality hiring process starts with the interview and the questions you ask nurse candidates. Whereas traditional interview questions do not always predict success, behavioral interviewing can help you make more informed hiring decisions. Use your powers of observation to predict if candidates will be successful on the job rather than hiring nurses based solely on the skills and credentials they list.

What is behavioral interviewing?

Behavioral interviewing is a technique developed by industrial psychologists in the 1970s. It is based on the idea that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior under similar circumstances. Using this technique, the interviewer asks the candidate to recall a previous experience relative to a given situation to elicit details of the task, actions that were taken or not taken, and the impact of those actions.

When interviewing nurses, select questions that correspond to the skills and characteristics your organization values. For example, Harvard Business Review profiled Southwest Airlines as a company that excels at defining its ideal candidates and crafting interview questions to identify them. Healthcare organizations can use this strategy when interviewing nurses.

Let’s consider some behavior-based questions that can help you gather information on the characteristics and skills nurses need for success in today’s complex healthcare environment — and identify the nurse candidates who possess them.

Nursing behavioral interview questions

While common interview questions for nurses typically cover general topics, behavioral interview questions for nurses require candidates to use previous experiences and events as examples. Usually, interviewers have very little one-on-one time with a nurse candidate. Making the best use of this time and learning as much as possible depends on knowing which questions to ask. The following are examples of behavioral interview questions nurses might answer to give the interviewer an indication of how well a candidate will fit within a given role.

Excellent communication

Nurses constantly work in teams with other nurses and healthcare professionals, such as physicians and lab techs, making effective communication critical. Situational interview questions for nurses help gauge how effectively the candidate communicates. When asking the following questions at a nursing interview, look for a candidate who isn’t afraid to speak up or repeat the intended message differently if needed — and who doesn’t shy away from communicating in difficult circumstances.

• Give an example of a time when you had to work with someone difficult to get along with. Why was this person difficult? How did you handle that person?
• Ensuring patients are informed about their care is important for many reasons. Tell me about a time when you had to overcome a communication barrier to make sure a patient understood what you wanted them to know.
• Describe a situation when you talked to a patient who was angry or upset about an aspect of their care for which you weren’t responsible. (Examples: They didn’t get a meal they liked, a procedure was postponed, etc.). What did you say to the patient?  What, if anything, did you do?

Compassion and empathy

While nurses are known for having compassion and empathy, some candidates might lack these characteristics. The following sample nursing interview questions might shed light on how well a candidate perceives the feelings of patients and colleagues. Tune into responses that indicate the ability and willingness to understand how others feel, especially in a circumstance the nurse hasn’t personally experienced.

• It is sometimes difficult to perceive the impact of an illness or hospitalization on a patient’s life. Tell me about a time when you were able to step into another person’s shoes to understand how they were feeling. What did you do or say in that instance?
• Being empathetic to another person’s circumstances entails putting forth an effort to understand the situation or dilemma. Give an example of a time when you were empathetic to a coworker. How did this contribute to a work outcome?
• Describe a time when you cared for a patient with values, beliefs, or morals that conflicted with your own. How did the situation affect your relationship with the patient?

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Problem-solving and critical thinking

Critical thinking for nurses means making decisions in rapidly changing, complex, and high-pressure situations. In many cases, potential solutions to a problem must be evaluated against competing ethical principles and potential negative consequences. Some nurses are expert critical thinkers, while others struggle to comprehend and master this skill. Behavioral interview questions can help identify candidates who can make sound decisions based on informed thinking when faced with complex problems.

• Give an example of a time when you used critical thinking skills to solve a problem. What was the problem, and how did you come to a decision? What was the outcome?
• Tell me about a time when you faced a problem you had to solve and no feasible solution was ideal (all solutions had some negative consequence). How did you decide what to do, and what was the outcome of your decision? Through reflection, what did you learn?
• Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision about patient care. Describe the basis for your decision. What was the outcome?

Nurses must be well-equipped for long, physically and emotionally demanding shifts. Understanding how to cope with high-stress aspects of the job is key to a nurse’s success. Nursing interview questions can reveal which candidates have been successful through real-life examples. Situational interview questions for nurses can also help to identify nurse candidates with avoidance tactics who might respond with a general statement such as, “I just didn’t let the stress get to me,” or “I didn’t let myself think about it.”

• The nursing profession can be physically, emotionally, and mentally stressful.  Tell me about a time when you endured a stressful situation at work. How did it affect you? What personality characteristics helped you manage the stress?
• Tell me about a time when someone (a supervisor, coworker, patient, etc.) wasn’t happy with your performance at work even though you were doing your best. How did it affect you?  Did you do anything about the situation, and if so, what?
• Describe a time in your recent past when you suffered a big disappointment (at work or outside of work). How did it impact you emotionally? How did it affect your ability to carry on with day-to-day life?

Mindful of patient safety

A nurse candidate’s first concern should be patient safety. While common interview questions for nurses may uncover a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses, the following examples provide insight into how the candidate’s priorities match those of the organization. Interview questions for nurses specific to patient safety will differentiate candidates who aren’t afraid to question the status quo and are comfortable speaking up when they have safety concerns.

• Tell me about a process or task at work that concerned you because of the potential for errors that could cause patient harm. What, if anything, did you do to ensure safety or improve the process or task?
• Describe a situation at work when you witnessed someone breaking a rule or cutting corners, possibly putting a patient at risk for harm. How did you handle the situation?
• Has there been a time when a physician or another practitioner ordered something for a patient that you felt might be inappropriate or potentially harmful? What did you do?

Develop the skill of behavioral interviewing

It’s important to note that behavioral interviewing is a skill that takes training and practice to conduct effectively. The desired skills and characteristics of roles will vary, as will the questions you ask. For example, a pediatric nurse will need different questions from those for a nurse working in the emergency department.

Familiarity with the technique can help you formulate the right questions and follow up when needed to get the fuller picture of a candidate. When done well, behavioral interview questions for nurses can even help you predict the long-term success and engagement , and retention of a candidate.

Behavioral interview questions aim to uncover a person’s actual behavior rather than their perceptions of themselves, which may not be as accurate. By using this technique, you will better understand how candidates do their work, how they interact with others, and how they will potentially help ensure the success of your organization.

Rebecca Smallwood , RN, MBA

Healthcare Learning and Development Specialist, Relias

Elizabeth Snively

Content Marketing Manager, Relias

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15 Behavioral Interview Questions for Nurse Candidates

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Article Review and Discussion: Determining Best Fit for Newly Licensed Nurses

4 min read | Posted February 2, 2022

A recent study showed how nurses hired into a higher job fit demonstrated a reduction in orientation time.

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Critical thinking definition

Critical thinking, as described by Oxford Languages, is the objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgement.

Active and skillful approach, evaluation, assessment, synthesis, and/or evaluation of information obtained from, or made by, observation, knowledge, reflection, acumen or conversation, as a guide to belief and action, requires the critical thinking process, which is why it's often used in education and academics.

Some even may view it as a backbone of modern thought.

However, it's a skill, and skills must be trained and encouraged to be used at its full potential.

People turn up to various approaches in improving their critical thinking, like:

• Developing technical and problem-solving skills
• Engaging in more active listening
• Actively questioning their assumptions and beliefs
• Seeking out more diversity of thought
• Opening up their curiosity in an intellectual way etc.

Is critical thinking useful in writing?

Critical thinking can help in planning your paper and making it more concise, but it's not obvious at first. We carefully pinpointed some the questions you should ask yourself when boosting critical thinking in writing:

• What information should be included?
• Which information resources should the author look to?
• What degree of technical knowledge should the report assume its audience has?
• What is the most effective way to show information?
• How should the report be organized?
• How should it be designed?
• What tone and level of language difficulty should the document have?

Usage of critical thinking comes down not only to the outline of your paper, it also begs the question: How can we use critical thinking solving problems in our writing's topic?

Let's say, you have a Powerpoint on how critical thinking can reduce poverty in the United States. You'll primarily have to define critical thinking for the viewers, as well as use a lot of critical thinking questions and synonyms to get them to be familiar with your methods and start the thinking process behind it.

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30 Common Nursing Interview Questions And Answers – General And Behavioral

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30 Common Nursing Interview Questions And Answers was originally published on careercrawlers.com/

If you are a current or future nurse and applying for work in the medical profession, then this guide will help you prepare. We have gathered the MOST common nursing interview questions and answers . The interviewer will typically ask two types of questions during your interview: General, for example, your work history, key strengths, relationships with co-workers, etc. You will also be asked Behavioral type questions, which are situational based to determine what actions or processes you would take in a given scenario. So, how did we gather these questions? We used what we believe are the two MOST effective strategies. First, we teamed up with the leading nursing recruiting agencies who have firsthand knowledge of the type of questions asked by interviewers. Secondly, we’ve spoken to nurses and received valuable information on how to prepare for nursing interviews. Who better to ask since they have gone through the process and succeeded?

Before we go into our questions and answers, we would like you to do an exercise that we believe will ease your preparation for everything else to come. In other words, it will help you HIT a home run while preparing for your interview.

We recommend browsing over the job description because it does hold clues into what strengths the interviewer would be more interested in. For example, let’s explore the following posting in Denver, CO – RN – Registered Nurse – Home Health – Flexible Hours.

After browsing the job description, we’ve listed a few responsibilities from the job description below. For example,

“Instructs participants and family regarding medications and treatment instructions.”

“Performs general nursing care on participants, including administering prescribed medications and treatments.”

“Assesses and re-assesses participants to determine individual needs and to ensure the least restrictive environment. Assesses participants to determine the change in condition that necessitates a change in the level of care and coordinates the plan of care with Home Care resources.”

So, now your task is to highlight next to each responsibility what you think are the necessary skills required to carry out each of these responsibilities. Before reading our answers, take 5 minutes to jot down your thoughts.

Here are our answers in blue:

“Instructs participants and family regarding medications and treatment instructions.” (SKILL SET REQUIRED: communication, ability to pay attention, empathy)

“Performs general nursing care on participants, including administering prescribed medications and treatments.” (SKILL SET REQUIRED: patience, communication, following instructions, reporting)

“Assesses and re-assesses participants to determine individual needs and to ensure the least restrictive environment. Assesses participants to determine the change in condition that necessitates a change in the level of care and coordinates the plan of care with Home Care resources.” (SKILL SET REQUIRED: problem-solving, reporting, teamwork, independent thinking, analytical thinking)

Before your interview, you should have received a job description. We highly recommend you use this approach when preparing for your interview since this will enable you to incorporate the critical skill set into your answers.

Common Nursing Interview Questions And Answers

These questions are commonly asked by the interviewer to understand more about you, your work experience, your key skill set, and why you feel you’ll be an excellent choice for this job. We’ve done our BEST to provide questions and answers for both nurses with previous work experience and those being interviewed for their first job.

We have listed 20 questions in total with “Sample Answers,” where applicable.

1) Why Do You Want to Work In The Industry?

When answering this question, MOST applicants will say the same thing as everyone else. For example, ever since they were a child, they wanted to be a nurse or how much they enjoyed reading through medical journals while growing up. These are answers interviewers have heard countless times, over and over again. The entire purpose of the interviewing process is not only to find someone qualified for the position but to find someone who stands out (in a positive way).

There’s nothing wrong with starting off the answer by saying you have always had a love for nursing. Still, it needs to go in deeper, focusing on your work as a volunteer at a senior citizen center in high school or when helping an ailing parent (if this applies to you, obviously). Both these examples will put more of a personal stamp on it, and it shows compassion at the same time. Being a nurse is not just about the job but also showing compassion to patients and demonstrating this when being interviewed by a recruiter.

In our experience, this is a common nursing interview question, so let’s get you a bit more prepared. We have provided a sample answer to help you get started. However, we want to give you a great tip on how you can create several excellent answers on your own, depending on the job your applying for.

First, start by skimming through the job posting again, looking at the specific job requirements. Several clues within the posting can help CRAFT the perfect answer. Here is a sample posting for a Registered Nurse – Women’s Health Float – Full-Time Nights

In the “ Roles & Responsibilities, ” you can determine what qualities the job is looking for in a candidate. We’ve listed the following –

• Assess and evaluates patients
• Manage and coordinates patient care activities
• Reporting and research

Sample Answer

“I find it very gratifying and motivating, helping others in providing them care. Becoming a nurse will give me the unique opportunity to help others work towards achieving a healthy state of being. I believe your health is one of the essential factors in enjoying a FULL life. I’ve always found it very easy to connect with people throughout my life and build strong relationships with them. Hopefully, as a nurse, I will be able to build influential relationships with my patients to inspire them positively.

I’m proud of my ability to work in a team environment, and this has been something I’ve been doing since high school. Being able to work in a team will NOT only allow me to learn more on the job but will also allow me to use the skills I’m most proud of. For example, creating reports, researching, and hopefully managing a team in the future.

With that said, this career is extremely rewarding in nature. It can provide stable work opportunities, and the industry itself has enormous mobility for progressive roles. I want to work in an industry that will allow me to grow personally and professionally. And that’s why I have chosen the nursing industry.”

2) Why Should We Hire You? Or, Why Should We Choose You For This Position?

During the interview process, far too many applicants are going to say, “I’m the best candidate.” The fact of the matter is there is no way for the employer to know that. They don’t know who else is applying for the job, so this kind of comment comes off as pretentious. Instead, this is where pointing out your past experience and education is a plus. It’s also helpful to point out how you have gone outside of the box to improve yourself throughout the years within the industry (such as obtaining certifications outside of work). This allows the applicant to say they are willing to go the extra mile over what other candidates might offer (without actually saying other candidates won’t do it). With that said, you will be required to answer this question in detail and provide examples of why you’ll be the ideal choice. So,

We recommend being very specific about the skills you’ll bring to the job. Employers are looking for someone (an applicant) who meets the job specifications. Read through the job description because it will provide several clues about how you should answer these questions. For example, check out this RECENT posting for a Clinical Nurse – Leukemia Office Practice, Outpatient, NYC.

Under the “ You Are ” section, you’ll notice several keywords like creative decision-maker, approachable, effective communicator, flexibility, customer relationships, ability to align with shifting demands, high energy, etc.

When asked this question by the recruiter, implement some of these critical skills into your answer. For example, “I work well in a team and understand how being an effective communicator can help streamline the care process. I can build strong relationships with patients and their families, so they feel comfortable approaching me whenever they have a concern?”

3) Tell Us About Yourself?

In terms of common nursing interview questions and answers , this is as basic as they come. However, this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t think of some relevant answers. What we mean by relevant is to CRAFT an answer that keeps some of the job specifications in mind. For example, when applying for a nursing position, there is no point in emphasizing your love for cooking. It’s a great idea to mention you love to cook but don’t go into too much detail about it. Instead, focus on your love for reading or learning new things because both can be transferable skills in a nursing job. Other possible attributes you can mention are your love for networking or working at finding solutions for everyday problems.

Another great tip is NOT just to give a bullet-point rundown of your work history. Your “Work History” is information the recruiter can already see on the resume. Instead, focus on your strengths , especially those that can be an asset on the job. For example, talk about your strong communication skills and how working in a previous position has helped build confidence and work ethic. Mention your solid track record of success when faced with difficult situations or how different types of jobs have helped give you a broader perspective on life. Keep in mind; the interviewer already knows what school you graduated from and what qualifications you hold. However, they may not realize that you worked three jobs while in high school or college. Talking about this shows perseverance, determination, and dedication.

“First of all, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed today! From the start, I’ve always been passionate about wanting to help others, and that’s why I decided very early on that I wanted to be in the healthcare industry. I graduated from ABC college with a degree in nursing. I believe my previous experience working as a nurse has provided me with the knowledge and skills I need to excel in this position. I have worked hands-on with a team of nurses caring for patients while conducting assessments on a daily basis. Not only that, but I enjoyed working in a team environment sharing knowledge and improving our skills collectively. Some other of my major responsibilities there were stabilizing incoming patients, communicating with doctors providing up-to-date information, administering medication, and maintaining patient records. Even though my job was quite intense, working in a fast-paced environment, I loved the challenge as I thrive under pressure; it brings out the best in me.

I’m now looking to continue to grow and excel therefore looking for a more senior role with greater responsibilities, which is why I am here today. I believe I have a lot to offer, not only through my skill set but the values I believe in. As you know, in this line of work, not only do you have to display high levels of integrity and perfection, but you also have to be compassionate.”

4) Why Are You Leaving Your Current Position?

In our experience with common nursing interview questions and answers , this is another one that is almost always going to come up. Recruiters want to know the reason why you have left your current position and if you’ll be transparent about your decision. Recruiters also want to ensure your reason for leaving and whether this current position aligns with your career plans. This way, you DON’T simply abandon ship and move on to the next job quickly. Employers want someone who will grow into the position since they will invest time and effort into your growth within the organization. With that said,

This is a crucial question, and many applicants have made a mistake in saying they are leaving (or left) because they don’t like their current boss or what they are doing for work. To the recruiter, this is an indication of an applicant who may be hard to get along with or is NOT willing to work at resolving issues within the workplace. So, we recommend taking a different route by saying something more along the lines of how you have learned a great deal from your current job; however, your growth is now limited. You are now at a stage in your life where you want to push forward and bring on new challenges. Go into more detail on how you want to learn new skills by taking on unique challenges where you can flourish professionally.

“Let me start by saying I was (or am) very fortunate to have the opportunity to work at (company name). During my time there, I learned a great deal. I was able to work with exceptional people who taught me a lot about research, patient assessment, reporting, etc. However, it came to a point where my growth was limited, and I wanted to grow professionally. I’ve always seen myself heading a team or working on complex problems to solve issues that affect people all over the world. I want to be more hands-on with patients working with them and their families to come up with long-term treatment plans. I feel this position will be an amazing fit for me and allow me to excel at what I know I’m capable of doing.”

Anything in blue, please change to be more specific to the job you are applying for.

5) What Do You Think of Your Last Job/Boss?

When looking at general nursing interview questions , this is a bit of a bait-and-hook question (but it will MOST certainly be asked during your interview). The interviewer doesn’t want to know dirt about your previous boss and your other job. They are NOT looking to gather any kind of gossip, either. In fact, when the interviewer asks about your current or former boss, they want to understand more about your character and how well you respect the character of others you are working with. For example, stating your previous boss was hard to work with or that they didn’t listen can reflect poorly on you too. Avoid answering this question in any way that can backfire on you making your character look bad. Another thing to keep in mind is that the interviewer can end up being your boss either now or in the near future and wants to ensure the applicant can be trusted to withhold the ethics of the workplace. With that said,

When answering such a question, it’s essential to focus on the positive attributes of your previous boss. Focusing on the positive attributes should even apply if you are NOT happy with your current boss because your answer is a reflection of your character. So, when approaching this question, focus on the positives, perhaps how your previous boss helped you understand the importance of teamwork. Or, they played a critical role in helping you learn more effective research techniques. You can even say that your boss was a no-nonsense individual who required extremely hard work from those around him or her. This attitude taught you how hard work could pay off when it comes to solving problems and meeting deadlines. In the end, you DON’T need to paint them in a glowing light. That just comes off as fake. Merely pointing out how they helped make you a better job candidate should suffice with this answer.

6) If I Contacted Your Previous Boss, What Would They Tell Me About You?

You’ll notice this is similar to the “What Would Your Friends Say About You” line of questions. However, this question is meant to bring out a much more accurate and trustworthy response from you. It’s important to note that you may or may not be asked this question. Either way, we are here to ensure you are prepared by providing possible ways you can answer this type of question. You should be well aware the interviewer can always double-check your honesty through a simple phone call to your previous boss. So, when approaching this type of question, it’s crucial, to be honest, yet not contrary to the previous questions regarding your last job and boss. For example, you’ll be asked several similar types of questions throughout your interview, and you MUST ensure your answers are all aligned together.

So, what are some possible ways to answer such a question? Approach this question by first examining your relationship with your previous or current boss.

a) If you are on excellent terms with your boss, you can be honest with the interviewer about your relationship with him or her. Many times when you have an excellent working relationship with your boss, they are willing to provide feedback to you directly about your character that you can pass on to the recruiter. You can even let your previous or current boss know they might receive a phone call for a reference.

However, you may be in a position where your relationship was or isn’t the best with your boss. If this is the case, you should take the following approach.

b) Be completely honest about your relationship with your previous boss because the interviewer can find out through a phone call if you’re honest. If you DON’T/DIDN’T have a proper working relationship with your boss, then be honest about it; however, provide examples as to how you tried to bridge the gap or improve communication with your boss. Demonstrating problem-solving skills is always a beneficial trait. After all, not everyone will get along together, which is why problem-solving and co-existing is so essential.

As mentioned previously, the interviewer may or may not decide to contact your previous boss. However, this typically depends on the position itself and if additional background checks are required due to the sensitivity of the job.

7) What Did You Not Like (or Like Least) About Your Position?

Another common nursing interview question. The interviewer is NOT looking for disgruntled employee talk, gossip or negativity (even though the question itself may come off as one). The interviewer is trying to determine how well you will align with the responsibilities of this job. For example, if you answer stating you didn’t enjoy working with a team at your previous job, and this new position requires teamwork, then you obviously won’t be a good fit. So, before answering this question, it’s essential to study and know the functions or responsibilities of this new position. You want to know what this new position will cover and then formulate an answer that avoids speaking negatively about specific responsibilities that you will be performing at this new job that you are being interviewed for.

We recommend uniquely approaching this question. For example, say there wasn’t anything you disliked about your last job, but then point out non-medical related work, such as having to travel a good deal of the time, which interfered with your life as a newlywed or parent (just make sure travelling isn’t part of the new position). You can even refer to how your previous job was or is limiting your growth, and you wanted new challenges. This answer needs to avoid any conflict with the job description for the new role you are being interviewed for.

8) Tell Me About One Of Your Greatest Accomplishments In Your Previous Role?

When answering this question, it’s important NOT to give a general, vague answer here. You want to draw on a RECENT accomplishment where you can quantify or relate the benefits of your actions or outcomes. One can be that you formulated bespoke care plans for individual patients, which led to quicker recovery time for patients and improved their satisfaction by 35%. Or, as a nurse, you trained and mentored ten new nurses, which led to an overall improvement in patient assessment and increased team dynamics/morale. These are just two examples you can use in your answer; however, each one should be customized to fit your previous roles.

When answering this type of question, there’s no right or wrong answer, and it can be as simple as spending time and interacting with patients, making them feel comfortable while putting a smile on their faces. Deliver your answer with confidence backing up what you say with examples.

Helping a family member through a difficult time in the hospital or assisting a child so they are not as afraid of a particular operation.

Communicated essential information to patients, managers, colleagues, and physicians, which subsequentially improved the communication gap by 30%

Managed team of nurses to meet service support levels every month and RECENTLY performed above target by 10%.

9) What is Your Greatest Weakness?

A standard nursing interview question can be tricky to answer; however, there are some strategic ways of answering this question that puts you in a WIN-WIN situation. First, When asked this question, do NOT deny that you have weaknesses . We are sure many of you are fortunate enough not to have any weaknesses; however, do NOT say this during your nursing interview. We also firmly recommend NOT giving the typical answers like “I work too hard” because interviewers have heard this several times before. This answer is way too generic and won’t make you stand out as a candidate for the position. With that said, we advise you to take the following two approaches when answering the question. First, you can present weaknesses which are potential ‘strengths’ in nature, for example, your passion for perfection. When applying this to nursing, you can say when working in a team, you expect perfection from everyone, even the new nurses, which may be an unrealistic demand since they are not fully equipped with the experience necessary yet.

The second approach is you can highlight those weaknesses which are not in direct conflict with the nursing job requirements. For instance, public speaking may be one of your weaknesses. It may be unlikely that this will be a requirement for a potential new nursing job. Therefore stating public speaking as your weakness should not adversely impact your job chances.

In the end, you must finish off your answer by describing the steps you are taking to overcome your weaknesses. By stating these steps, it shows you understand your shortcomings and how you pride yourself in making improvements to better yourself.

“ One of the things I struggle with is my tendency to want perfection out of everyone I’m managing. Perfection stems from my passion for wanting to deliver excellent patient care no matter what the obstacles. Therefore, I want everyone on my team to be aligned with this shared objective. Perfection at all times, in turn, may, however, put pressure on others to perform, especially those who are new to the team. To improve this weakness, I’ve learned to delegate more tasks and even taken some management courses offered online. And I have taken one on one meetings with all my team members so we can voice concerns with each other and help each other in achieving a common objective.

10) What is Your Greatest Failure, And What (If Anything) Did You Learn From It?

Another common nursing interview question, so you MUST be prepared with a unique answer. You don’t want to choose a failure that will hurt your chances of a successful interview. So, it is essential to choose something from earlier on in your career or something that won’t reflect poorly on this current job you are applying for. With that said, we recommend answering this question concerning education somehow. Or how a minor working incident has changed the way you carry out processes to perform at work better.

“When I was in College and faced with a tough semester, I decided to take two years off to work; however, the downside of this choice was limited career opportunities. I was also working in an industry not aligned with my passion. However, what I learned after my time off was no matter how difficult or challenging you find something, you should never give up. With hard work and perseverance, anything complicated can be overcome. And this is true because I went on to earn my (mention degree) however, it took me longer to achieve it because of my time off. I now appreciate the value of time and the value of NOT giving up through hard work.”

“When working at my first hospital job, I made an error in recording information on the patient’s chart. It wasn’t crucial information, but nonetheless, it was a mistake that should not have been made. It was only when a doctor was viewing the patient’s chart that she noticed there was an irregularity in the information. This error caused me to be very embarrassed; however, it was an eye-opener for me, and now I double or even triple-check my work before finalizing it. This incident has made me more vigilant in my professional and even personal life.”

11) Why Is There a Gap In Your Employment History? Can You Explain?

It is essential to know that employment gaps happen for several reasons throughout a person’s life. For example, as a nurse, you may decide to transition from a Certified Nursing Assistant to a Registered Nurse, so you have taken time out to study for the NCLEX examination . The key is in how you answer such a question when asked by the interviewer. Believe it or not, we have heard applicants say that they were “tired of working,” so they decided to take time off. Stating you were tired of working can hurt your chances of getting hired since the interviewer can assume the same outcome if you get tired of this position. In the end, companies are looking to hire someone dedicated and passionate about their job. They want someone who will persevere no matter what kind of adversity they are faced with at work. With that said,

In most instances, an applicant would have taken time away from work to travel or study to further their education. Both are GREAT answers to this question if you can show how they taught some valuable life lessons. We’ll demonstrate this in the “Sample Answer” below. Now, if there is a gap in your work history because you were searching for work, then stating the following can work very well – “ you didn’t want to rush and take a job that would leave your desire to work in the industry unfulfilled.” This type of answer shows determination and motivation to find the right job.

“After my last job, I decided to take time off to study part-time and pursue my passion for travelling. After graduating from college, I started working right away because I could not afford to travel at that time. However, now that I was able to gain some experience in my field and with a solid financial foundation, I decided to travel. Travelling was one of the best decisions I’ve made because it broadened my perspective on life. Through travelling, I was able to connect with many people from different walks of life, cultures, and professions. I have become more confident in the way I communicate with others. My ability to communicate more thoroughly is a skill I knew I would be able to utilize in nursing. Especially inpatient care, which is all about rapport building. Oh, and while travelling, I was studying in the most beautiful places ever. The ability to study on my own time gave me a greater appreciation for the material that was covered in the books. Subsequently, it renewed my passion for knowledge and my career choice.”

12) In Your Opinion, What Makes a Good Leader?

For any nursing role, it is essential that you are equipped with leadership skills to carry out your job effectively. Having leadership skills are important because nurses in a medical facility, whether it’s a doctor’s office, nursing home, or a hospital, are usually at the front line since they are more accessible than doctors. Therefore, there is more onus on nurses to take charge and ownership of patient care initially. Since such a huge responsibility is placed on nurses in this way, interviewers will ask this question to gauge if the applicant understands the necessary skill set required to make a good nurse leader.

Hence, what skills, attributes, and values make a good leader? A good leader will be a visionary in that they will be creative, confident, dynamic, and will be proactive in taking the initiative for their patients and staff. They will not be deterred by stressful situations or difficult patients but rather will relish the challenges faced. Therefore, they will possess excellent problem-solving/analytical skills to help them thrive in such demanding situations. They will also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, so they can bring out the best in their team members (to motivate them towards the common team goal), and also help in establishing a rapport with their patients. Additionally, they will be adaptable in that they can adjust to different circumstances since the nursing industry is fast-paced, with no two same patients necessarily receiving the same type of care plan. And finally, they will be perfectionists in that they strive for complete and continued success, whereby failing or underperforming is not even an option.

13) How Would Your Friends Describe You?

Your friends are an extension of you, especially those that have been with you since junior grade. When answering this type of question, as an applicant, you need to dig deep and think about your relationship with your friends. I’m sure throughout your friendship with them, many have provided clues into your GREATEST assets and qualities. So, it’s time to flatter yourself a little bit when answering this question. First, it’s important to be prepared because this is a common nursing interview question . This question provides the interviewer insight into your character from those that are NOT part of a working relationship. We recommend avoiding the usual answers like “They’d say I’m a good listener ” or ”They’d say I’ve always been there for them.” Interviewers have heard all this nonsense before, so avoid it. Instead, choose an answer more unique and where the positives of the quality outweigh the negatives. For example, “They’d say I’m very stubborn and WON’T take no for an answer. I will continue to try and try until I succeed”. The key is to be unique and think outside of the box to leave a lasting impression. After all, you want to set yourself apart from all the other candidates.

Here’s another example where a negative in one’s eyes will be positive in another: Bill Gates is credited for saying – “I will always choose a lazy person to do a difficult job because a lazy person will find an easy way to do it.”

We are not suggesting you literally say that you are lazy – but you get our drift on leaving a lasting impression and how manipulating specific qualities can work in your favour.

14) Which Values Are You Most Proud Of?

This nursing interview question is NOT as complicated as others since it’s not situational-based, nor is it asking directly about your previous employment. So, by asking this question, the interviewer is trying to determine how well the applicant’s values coincide with the position or how well the applicant’s values will correlate with the medical profession. Keep in mind that the medical profession prides itself on ethics, values, confidentiality, and more. Before constructing your answer, it’s essential to know the definition of the word “Values” because this will help guide your answer.

“Your values are the things that you believe are important in the way you live and work.”

With that said,

With each “VALUE,” be as detailed as possible. For example, “I believe in the power of loyalty because, through loyalty, you build trust. When working in the medical profession, a lot of trusts is placed in you because of your duty to provide health care. When you have a team where everyone trusts each other, you can provide the best patient care. For example, you feel more comfortable communicating with other team members, voicing concerns, etc.”

15) What Drives You? What Motivates You?

This question is giving you an opportunity to make an impression, so make it count. It is commonly used by interviewers to gauge an applicant’s passion and is a gateway to assess what positive traits you, as an individual, will bring to the job. The nursing industry is unique since it is a profession that is immensely rewarding due to the emphasis it places on providing a duty of care to society. Having said this, helping others is perhaps one of the main reasons why people choose the nursing profession in the first instance. Therefore, relaying driving or motivating factors shouldn’t be too difficult. For example, getting children in the cancer ward to laugh, or working with patients who are difficult to be around, may drive or motivate you. Alternatively, easing a patient’s pain and suffering through appropriate care and comfort may motivate you also. These are just some examples you can incorporate into your answer.

16) How Do You Motivate Others? Or How Do You Bring Out The Best In Your Staff/Team?

This question is more or less asking what your strengths are and how you can be an asset working in a team with other staff. It’s an opportunity for the applicant to talk about their unique strengths, and it’s imperative to mention ONLY those strengths that will help you strive in the workplace. Staying focused on an answer in relation to work will help shorten it, making it more precise and targeted. We’ve heard stories about candidates talking about their strengths for 45 minutes, going off-topic without mentioning how their strengths can help the team or staff at work. It’s vital for you NOT to make the same mistake.

Some examples of how you can motivate others and bring out the BEST in your co-workers can be seen in the reference below:

a) Understand team members’ strengths and level of experience: When referring to this, mention how one of your strengths is understanding the value another team member brings to the table. At the same time, you also appreciate their level of experience and how to apply that to the common objective/goal of the team. Through identification and appreciation, you will motivate them by utilizing them at what they do BEST, which in turn will translate into better performance.

b) Give clear directions: Every team member may have a different level of understanding, so it’s essential to give clear instructions. When answering this question, you can say: “I pride myself on my ability to communicate clearly because I understand how, in the medical profession, every second counts. Through clear directions/instructions, every team member is on the same page leaving little room for error or confusion. When every team member is clear about their responsibilities, they will be more motivated to be productive.”

c) Your ability to inspire your team: Say you lead by example, and that’s how you feel is the BEST way to inspire your team to perform to their fullest potential. Not to mention, by leading through example, you can educate your team to find new and efficient ways to complete the tasks at hand. When other team members see colleagues or managers working on the same project together, it builds a greater sense of unity and comradery.

d) Praise and reward when possible: Sometimes, others just need to be appreciated to bring out the best in them. Saying that “I’ve found appreciating both the smaller achievements and bigger achievements can have a positive effect on working relationships and performance. For example, acknowledgment of a job well done will motivate the person to continue to strive during stressful times because they are aware of how their effort is truly making a difference to the team.”

e) Give them more autonomy: By delegating tasks and giving them more responsibility, you are empowering them in the workplace. By delegating tasks, you are giving them a sense of self-worth since you are trusting them with a responsibility that is vital to the dynamics of the team. This level of trust has two critical benefits for the person. First, it makes them feel appreciated as an essential link within the team. Secondly, it improves performance because that sense of trust makes them work harder, so they don’t let the team down. In the long run, it will even improve their skills, knowledge, and performance at whatever responsibility they find themselves doing at the time.

17) Being A Nurse Can Be Overwhelming. What Do You Think Is The Hardest Part About Being A Nurse?

When asked this question, the interviewer is trying to determine what you consider difficult and whether this will impact your performance on the job. For example, if you say that working long hours or cleaning up after patients is the MOST challenging part, this will potentially hurt your chances of a successful interview. As you can imagine, these two are essential duties of a nurse. Naturally, when answering this question, try to highlight those things which are NOT directly assigned to you or are in your control. So, in the sample answer, you will notice how we describe a scenario that we have NO control over, i.e., loss of life or a young child who is diagnosed with an illness that has no cure.

“For me, the hardest part of being a nurse is having to deal with the loss of life and the IMPACT it leaves on immediate family. Loss of life is NOT only heartbreaking for the family members but also for us nurses, too, since we have built up relationships with our patients. A patient is brought to us to seek help and recover. I feel as a nurse; I am personally responsible for their well-being. When a patient’s illness is so aggressive, and you are NOT able to help any further, you still feel burdened with the fact that you let them down (even though this isn’t the case). These situations are very sensitive and can impact us, nurses, emotionally.”

18) Where Do You See Yourself Within The Next Five Years?

There is no real right answer to this question, and your response should be totally dependent upon what your career vision and goals are. However, what is certain when answering this question is to show ambition, motivation, and a desire to want to grow and develop professionally. Additionally, employers also want to determine your loyalty by assessing your commitment levels to the industry/company (or hospital) itself. After all, the company does not want to see you leave them as soon as a better opportunity comes along your way. So be sure you make a reference to wanting to continue to work for them in some way.

Also, while it is not always necessary to have a specific job title in mind, you do need to focus your answer on progressive positions within the nursing industry. On this note, in the nursing industry, there is ample opportunity for growth and movement. Examples of progressive nursing roles that you can perhaps draw upon in your answer can be seen with reference to becoming a unit manager or supervisor for an entire wing, becoming a nurse director, or transitioning into a different nursing specialty.

Alternatively, when answering this question, you can also take on a different approach which doesn’t necessarily tie you to a specific job title. For example, you may want to demonstrate your commitment to growing within the industry by dedicating yourself to acquiring an increased level of knowledge. Meaning you can perhaps point out to wanting to gain additional certifications or degrees, which will then put you in good stead for other superior roles. By answering in this way, it shows a continued drive within the medical industry without specifically pointing out a particular job title or position.

Whichever route you use, both will be equally effective in answering the question demonstrating a commitment toward professional growth on your part

“Ideally, I would like to transition into a supervisory or management role within the hospital in charge of a sizeable team. I feel that I am a very people-orientated and approachable individual. This quality of mine should hopefully put me in good stead towards nurturing and mentoring others to excel to their full potential, especially those colleagues who are starting their careers. I feel this increase in professional responsibility will not only increase my commitment towards delivering more excellent patient care but will also help me as a person to perform better. This is because teamwork, team dynamics, and team comradery motivate me to work harder since I fear letting people down or underperforming. Hence management responsibility will push me to strive for ultimate success continuously.”

19) What Kind of Salary Are You Looking For?

This is sometimes a tricky question to answer; hence you need to tread carefully. If you have applied for the job through an agency, then it is wise to let the agencies carry out the salary negotiations on your behalf. Hopefully, the agencies would have relayed to the recruiter your salary expectations in advance, or alternatively, you can suggest to the employer that they can speak to your agency concerning this matter. However, in instances where this is not the case or is not possible, it is fair for you to state that you would expect to be paid in line with what the industry standard is for the level of experience you have to offer to the role. Hence do your research beforehand so that if you need to give an average salary range, you can put this forward.

20) Do You Have Any Questions For Us?

This question typically closes out most interviews. It also offers a major stumbling block for applicants who do not ask questions because it can show a lack of interest in their part. It is essential to ask the interviewer(s) questions about the company. It demonstrates that the applicant has taken a genuine interest in taking time out to think about the position. You should keep the questions relevant to the team or culture of the company because these are two things you can’t research. For example, how the nursing staff works together, how many patients are seen during a shift, who will you be reporting to, the team dynamics, and even the chance of your progression throughout the company.

Behavioural Nursing Interview Questions And Answers

During your nursing interview, you will be asked behavioural-type questions. These types of questions are situational based, and the interviewer is trying to determine what steps you would take when faced with unique challenges on the job. We have researched the MOST common nursing behavioural interview questions and answers by asking nurses who have already been through the interview process successfully. With that said, we have found that the BEST approach to answering these types of questions is by utilizing the STAR method.

The STAR method is one that uses a specific structure when answering a behavioural-based interview question. For example, STAR is defined as

(S) Situation – Describe the situation or scenario you were in.

(T) Task – Explain the task you had to do at work. If possible, describe some of the challenges faced.

(A) Action – Describe what actions you took to resolve the situation and the tasks at hand.

(R) Results – What was the outcome of your actions?

1) How Do You Deal With A Difficult Patient?

As a nurse, you will be confronted with frustrated patients every single day. Your success at work will depend on the way you handle such situations. An interviewer wants to engage in how well you handle stress and what actions you take during these challenging situations. So, the key when answering such a question is to highlight that one needs to remain calm and display a professional temperament. With that said, in such a situation, the critical skills which will come into play for any nurse will be excellent communication (in being persuasive) and interpersonal skills, excellent listening skills, problem-solving, or critical thinking skills. We didn’t mention teamwork because, as you can understand that “teamwork” in this particular scenario will NOT be applicable. So, the key here is only to mention those skills which apply to the scenario.

“As a nurse, I am well aware that I will be dealing with challenging patients every single day. These patients are going through a difficult time in their lives, and this is not only giving them a physical burden but an emotional one too. The key here is to remain calm and professional while reassuring them that we are here to try and make them better.

For example, during my previous job, there was an elderly patient that was verbally and physically abusive toward me every day. This patient had no visitors coming to see him and had very little communication throughout the day. I understood this could be very lonely, and it can take a toll on someone’s mental being. My solution was to offer him friendship and companionship. I took it upon myself to change his routine by getting him more involved in activities. For example, I would take him outside for fresh air, read to him, or even play games with him, which he enjoyed. These activities are what he needed because I saw a positive change in his mood. He became more talkative and friendly. Ultimately, the abuse completely stopped! ”

Again, this is a sample answer, so hopefully, you can construct an answer using this template for your interview.

2) How Do You Prioritize Tasks To Meet Deadlines While Upholding Excellent Patient Care?

This question is all about multi-tasking while maintaining the highest standards at work. In this scenario, the essential skills the nurse will need to display are excellent time management skills, organizational skills, analytical skills, and critical thinking. Each one of these skills will allow you to meet your deadlines while enabling you to maintain excellent patient care. So, what we have decided to do is use the COVID-19 crisis as a framework for our sample answer.

NOTE: In this scenario, our deadline/target is to achieve faster patient recovery so you can free up beds to attend to other patients.

“During this COVID-19 pandemic, we are overwhelmed with the number of patients coming into our hospital. So, this has increased the number of tasks and protocols we have to follow. Through identification, we understood that our ability to provide excellent patient care was dependent upon prioritizing our safety. Therefore, I got organized for my team and implemented different safety strategies that we had to follow before coming to work and at work before dealing with patients. For example, a checklist posted on our wall at work that each one must complete before attending to patients. This checklist consists of things like showering, dressing, gloves, laundry, disposal, sanitizing, fever checks, etc.

By taking the precautions we have, we have limited the amount of nursing staff that has been effective by COVID-19. With less affected staff, we can continue to attend to more patients quicker and help with their faster recovery.”

The sample answer above shows that by prioritizing through critical thinking, you were able to be organized, which in turn led to achieving your deadlines in this scenario (faster recovery of patients).

3) A Patient Has Continuing Pain, How Do Help Alleviate Their Pain?

As a nurse, your primary objective is to find the root cause of the pain. Finding the cause of the pain is accomplished by doing the necessary physical examinations and asking all the RIGHT questions. This will demonstrate to the interviewer that you are following the correct, thorough process. This scenario requires these skills and traits to be displayed. Problem-solving, critical thinking, communication skills, and a level of empathy need to be displayed.

“I did have a patient that had severe pain that wasn’t going away even after the initial treatment provided. I decided to go back and look over everything that had been done so far to ensure that nothing was missed. After my second check, the patient was still experiencing enormous pain, and I determined more action was necessary. So, I got a second opinion from the managing nurse to determine if anything was missed or could be done further. I also asked if it would be possible to escalate to the doctor assigned to the ward at the time. The nursing manager deemed that all the steps I had taken were correct; however, now the patient had to be looked by the doctor for further tests. I did take it upon myself to communicate everything openly with the patient. I reassured her that she would be fine.”

4) How Do You Go About Delivering Bad News To A Patient Or Family Members? What Did You Say?

As part of a nurse’s role, delivering bad news MAY NOT be part of your responsibilities. However, an interviewer may ask this question to understand if you have the right thought process and skill set to carry out these tasks. The primary skill required for this scenario would be communication and interpersonal skills. When answering this question, highlight to the interviewer that such a process needs to start with an empathetic tone while also being completely objective and transparent with the patient or family members. In nursing school, you will be trained for such scenarios because this is such a sensitive matter.

“ I always try to put myself in the patient’s or family member’s shoes before approaching the situation. Allowing myself to take the patient’s place will help me be more empathetic and prepared. I realize that receiving bad news can be life-altering, so tread carefully with my tone and the words I choose.

Once, I had to deliver news to the family members in the waiting room that their grandmother had passed away. I got them to sit down and sit next to them before breaking the news. Then in a soft-spoken tone, I was open with them as to what happened and how she went. I ended on a positive note by letting them know she went peacefully and reassured them we were there to help in any way we could. I highlighted some support groups available in the hospital to help them through the grieving process. Before leaving, I gave them a chance to ask any questions they had and answered them as thoroughly as possible.”

5) Explain a Time You Did Not Get Along With Other Nurses/Co-Workers?

Let’s face it; there are some people you will get along with more than others, while there are some that you will not get along with at all. It is not uncommon to have personality clashes within the workplace. However, what is not acceptable is for such differences to interfere with one’s duties and performance, especially when you have to work in close proximity with such colleagues.

When you are asked about potential conflict with co-workers, remember the interviewer wants to determine if you are a team player, if you can function well under stress and determine if you are a problem solver. Hence, you need to demonstrate these qualities in your answer.

Remember, when describing the incident, you must avoid criticizing your former colleagues as this can reflect poorly on your personality and your ability to work in a team. Hence, ensure your tone is positive and constructive.

“Once, there was an incident with myself and my colleague when we disagreed on the appropriate care plans for the patients in our wing. I strongly felt that even though I did not have as much experience as her, my care plans were far more suited to helping the patients recover faster. Hence I felt it necessary to voice my concerns in a way that would not undermine her nor come across as confrontational.

Subsequently, I invited her to have lunch with me. Our lunch made our meeting informal and relaxed and helped me build a rapport with her. By having lunch, we were both able to exchange our ideas constructively, which led to revised care plans incorporating both of our expertise. It also helped me to better understand her methods, which initially I did not agree with. In the end, we both were aligned to our common goal of providing excellent patient care, and indeed we delivered on that through our combined efforts.”

6) How Would You Communicate Medical Jargon To A Patient or Family Member Who Is Having Difficulty Understanding The Issue? Can You Provide An Example Too?

As a nurse, communication is a crucial strength that is imperative for the job. For example, communicating with colleagues, senior colleagues, patients, and their families will be part of your everyday responsibility. However, the way you would communicate with your team will be significantly different from the way you communicate with a patient or their family members since they will NOT have the same medical expertise. So, when asked this type of question by a job interviewer, it’s essential to acknowledge that you are aware of the difference. You can mention that when speaking to non-medical individuals, different strategies can be employed. For example, the use of simplified language by avoiding the overuse of medical terminology or illustrating a point visually to help get the point across. You can also mention the importance of practicing these situations on friends or coming up with creative analogies to help communicate with a non-medical audience.

NOTE: If this is your first job interview for a nurse role, you may not have come across such a situation before. However, you can still describe the essential strategies that would be used in this scenario.

“I understand patients do not have the medical expertise to understand medical conditions, and therefore you need to adopt a more straightforward approach. At my previous job, there was an elderly patient who was in a coma, and I was in constant communication with her family. The family was not well-versed in English and did not understand what a coma was. Through shorter sentences and hand gestures, I was able to describe effectively that she was in a deep sleep. I also had to explain the procedures the doctors we going to use to bring her back to consciousness. I did this by illustrating on a piece of paper through drawing what tools and what areas we were going to focus on. I also had the family repeat back to me what I had just explained to them. When they repeated everything correctly, it gave me confidence and reassurance that they understood me and the issue at hand.”

7) What Would You Do If You Don’t Know The Answer To A Question Or Concern The Patient Has?

Let’s face it; we won’t always have the answers to everything. Not knowing the answer is NOT a weakness on your part, and this is something the interviewer recognizes. However, the interviewer is more concerned with what you would do in such cases and what steps you would take to find the correct solution. In such a situation, first and foremost, admit that you DON’T have the answer to the patient. Mention how it’s important that you DON’T give the patient misleading information as to what you think the answer would be. So, you would like to validate any response you give them. With that said, you will let the patient know that you will get back to them. It is also your responsibility to follow up with the patient once you have the correct information. So, how do you go about finding the correct information? There is a protocol you should follow:

First, let the interviewer know how you would take the time to conduct the research yourself. Secondly, after doing the research, you would talk to a colleague or senior colleague to validate whatever information you have found. If you have not found the answer yourself, again, you would still ask someone superior to help you out.

“When I first started as a nurse, one of my patients asked me something technical about the medication they were taking. I had a vague idea about the answer but wasn’t entirely sure about it. Obviously, I could have told them to speak to the pharmacist in the hospital about their medication, but I did not want to shy away from the responsibility or give them any misleading answers. Instead, I told the patient that I wasn’t too sure and assured them that I would find the answer and let them know. I did some research myself to gather information and spoke to our pharmacist to get their expert opinion. They were able to validate the information I researched, and I was confident enough to relay the answer back to the patient. Before leaving, I asked if the patient had any further questions for me.”

8) Can You Describe A Time When You Had To Adapt to A Change In Working Practices? How Did You Handle These Changes?

As a nurse, you will need to be flexible, versatile, and adaptable due to the fast-paced environment you are working in. The interviewer will ask this type of question to assess your ability to make changes as required. So, during your preparation, think about potential changes that you may experience as a nurse. For example, the introduction of new technologies, working with a new management team, new medical equipment, and new communication infrastructure. As a nurse, you have to be open to change because this is part of your job, especially when, in the medical profession, changes are being made quickly, where seconds can result in lives ultimately being saved.

“Throughout my career as a nurse, I have experienced several changes in the way we work and had to find ways to adapt to several of them quickly. An example would be just recently, in my last job, we were given new x-ray equipment that required training. Although we were given training, my colleagues and I felt that we were not adequately trained due to the limitation of time. So, I took it upon myself to become more comfortable with the x-ray equipment. I would practice using the machinery after my shift while reading through the user manual. I also made simplified notes with diagrams to make it easier to understand complicated instructions in the user manual. My process notes were used by my colleagues because they were much easier to follow and understand.”

NOTE: Another great example would be how tablets and phone applications are being used to communicate amongst staff. You can use this in your answer, illustrating how you adapted to modern communication technologies.

9) What Would You Do If You See A Senior Colleague Breaking The Rules or Misbehaving With Patients?

In the workplace, you may be confronted with situations where you see a senior colleague mistreating a patient or being negligent towards patient care. Although you have a responsibility to your team and co-workers, you MUST not forget why you became a nurse. Over time, you may develop strong friendships with your co-workers and superiors; this should not interfere with your professional integrity. These types of questions are often asked in an interview to understand one’s moral obligation better. So, make sure your answer reflects your moral obligation toward patient care being your number one priority, no matter at what expense.

“I’ve always prided myself on excellent relationships with my co-workers, even seniors. But, I did encounter a situation where a senior doctor who was also a good friend of mine was intoxicated on the job. I knew I had no choice but to report this matter to the correct management, even though I knew this would destroy our relationship and strip him of his license. I did confront him, and he said to give him a second chance, but I knew there was no second in such a matter. I knew if I didn’t report him, and he made an error in judgment with one of the patients, this could have been potentially devastating. My moral obligation has and always will be taking care of the patient’s best interests first.”

10) What Would You Do If You Needed Information From A Colleague And They Were Slow To Respond? How Would You Manage The Situation?

In the nursing profession, you will be working in collaboration with many departments, i.e., lab techs, doctors, consultants, etc. There will be many scenarios where their work or information will impact your job or duties. Naturally, each department will be working towards its own deadlines and priorities, which will NOT necessarily coincide with yours. So, you need to demonstrate to the interviewer how you will overcome such a situation. So, when answering such a question, it is essential to demonstrate your ability to be proactive and take the initiative without compromising the other department’s deadlines. In such situations, it will also help if you can demonstrate creative strategies to utilize your time more efficiently.

“In my previous nursing job, I was left in charge of updating the code of conduct for the hospital. My responsibility included working with different department heads to ensure that we were all on the same page in agreeing upon moral and ethical guidelines to be used as a final framework. To accurately create a new hospital guideline manual, I scheduled meetings with each of the department heads to get updates and feedback on essential areas of the document. However, there was one department head that was extremely hard to get a hold. Every time I would schedule a meeting, it always got postponed from their end due to critical deadlines they had to meet. Naturally, I understood the importance of them having to meet deadlines, so I took matters into my own hands to come up with ways to get the information without interfering with the completion of their deadlines. I decided to get creative with the ways we would have meetings. For example, instead of having that 1-hour formal meeting, I would schedule 15-minute meetings during his coffee breaks. This way, I was able to get the information I needed to complete my project while NOT interfering with his deadline.”

NOTE: There may be scenarios sometimes where you may have to escalate the situation to senior management to get the information required. Escalating to management will only be done in situations where you have exhausted all possible avenues and whereby the worker is being sheer lazy.

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide has helped you prepare for your upcoming interview. Remember that preparation is vital, so familiarize yourself with the job specification and perhaps practice or rehearse these questions as much as you can. In closing, we want to give you some quick tips:

Always walk in with confidence, give a firm handshake, keep adequate eye contact with the interviewer, and don’t forget to ask questions before ending your interview (if given the opportunity).

30 Practical Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Common Practical Nurse interview questions, how to answer them, and example answers from a certified career coach.

In the world of healthcare, practical nurses are the vital link that bridges the gap between patients and physicians. They provide essential care while demonstrating empathy and understanding to those they serve. The journey towards becoming a practical nurse is not without its challenges – one major hurdle being the interview process.

Facing an interview can be daunting, but with proper preparation, it becomes significantly easier. In this article, we will explore some typical questions you might encounter during a practical nurse interview along with comprehensive answers to guide your preparations. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for new opportunities, these insights should help you feel more confident and prepared when the big day arrives.

1. Can you describe a time when you had to handle a particularly difficult patient and how you managed it?

In the healthcare field, dealing with challenging patients is a part of the job, whether they’re resisting treatment, being non-compliant, or just generally difficult to work with. Interviewers want to gauge your interpersonal skills, patience, and ability to maintain professional composure under stress. They want to know if you can navigate these situations effectively while still providing quality care.

Example: “In one instance, I cared for a patient who was extremely anxious about an upcoming surgery. He refused to take his medication and constantly questioned the necessity of the procedure.

Understanding his fear, I took time to calmly explain the importance of the operation and how the medication would help him. I also involved his family in our discussions to provide additional reassurance.

By demonstrating empathy and patience, I was able to gain his trust. Eventually, he agreed to proceed with the treatment plan. This experience taught me the value of effective communication and emotional intelligence in nursing.”

2. How do you prioritize patient care when you have multiple patients with varying degrees of urgency?

Healthcare is often a high-pressure environment where time is of the essence. As a practical nurse, you’ll likely have multiple patients under your care at any given time. This question helps the interviewer understand your decision-making skills and ability to prioritize tasks under pressure. They want to ensure that you can effectively manage your workload and provide the best possible care to all your patients, regardless of the situation.

Example: “Prioritizing patient care in a busy environment requires critical thinking and quick decision-making. I follow the principle of triage, assessing each patient’s condition to determine who needs immediate attention.

I consider factors like severity of symptoms, risk of complications, and overall health status. For instance, a patient with chest pain would take precedence over someone with a minor injury.

Effective communication with other healthcare professionals is also crucial for coordinating care efficiently. Lastly, I continually reassess priorities as situations evolve, ensuring every patient receives timely and appropriate care.”

3. What strategies do you employ to ensure accurate medication administration?

Patient safety is paramount in nursing. Medication errors can lead to serious complications, which is why employers want to know that you have a system in place to ensure accuracy. They want to ensure that you are meticulous and organized in your approach to medication administration, and that you understand the importance of double-checking dosages, ensuring the correct patient is receiving the medication, and keeping accurate records.

Example: “To ensure accurate medication administration, I follow the “five rights” of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time.

I also double-check medications against the doctor’s orders before administration and use electronic health records to reduce errors.

Patient education is crucial too; I always explain what the medication is for and any potential side effects.

Lastly, I believe in continuous learning and staying updated with new drugs or changes in protocols to maintain accuracy and safety.”

4. Describe a situation where you had to make a critical decision in the absence of a doctor.

Being a practical nurse often means being the first line of defense in patient care. Doctors can’t be everywhere at once, and there will be times when you’ll need to make critical decisions on your own. This question is designed to assess your ability to handle high-stress situations, employ your medical knowledge, and use your judgement to make the best possible call for the patient’s well-being.

Example: “During my clinical rotation in a long-term care facility, I encountered an elderly patient who suddenly became disoriented and started experiencing shortness of breath. Recognizing these as potential signs of stroke or heart failure, I immediately checked his vital signs which showed elevated blood pressure and rapid pulse rate.

With the doctor unavailable at that moment, I had to make a critical decision based on my training and experience. I initiated emergency protocols for suspected stroke, ensured the patient was comfortable and safe, administered oxygen as per protocol, and alerted the medical team while continuously monitoring the patient’s condition.

This event underscored the importance of quick thinking, knowledge application, and calm demeanor in making critical decisions even in the absence of a physician.”

5. How have you handled a situation where a patient or their family disagreed with the medical advice provided?

Navigating the intersection of medical expertise and personal beliefs can be a challenging part of the nursing profession. Patients and their families may not always understand or agree with the advice provided, and it’s important to handle such situations with understanding, respect, and professionalism. By asking this question, hiring managers want to assess your communication skills, empathy, and ability to manage potentially difficult situations.

Example: “In such situations, I believe it’s crucial to maintain open communication and empathy. For instance, once a patient’s family disagreed with the prescribed treatment plan due to their religious beliefs.

I respected their viewpoint but also explained the potential risks of not following the medical advice. I arranged for them to consult with a hospital chaplain who could better understand their concerns from a spiritual perspective.

Ultimately, they agreed to modify the treatment in a way that was acceptable to them while still being medically sound. This experience taught me that understanding and addressing patients’ concerns is key to finding mutually agreeable solutions.”

6. What steps do you take to ensure the privacy and dignity of the patients you care for?

As a practical nurse, you’re not just dealing with health issues, but also the emotional wellbeing of your patients. Respecting a patient’s privacy and dignity is a cornerstone of great patient care. Therefore, hiring managers want to know if you understand how to provide care that respects the patient’s rights and individuality, and how you handle sensitive situations.

Example: “To ensure patient privacy, I strictly adhere to HIPAA guidelines and only share medical information with authorized personnel. I always ask for consent before performing any procedures or discussing sensitive information.

Maintaining dignity is about treating patients with respect and empathy. This includes listening attentively to their concerns, explaining procedures clearly, and involving them in decision-making processes.

I also prioritize creating a comfortable environment by providing personal care discreetly and respecting cultural and personal preferences. Ensuring privacy and dignity are essential aspects of nursing that help build trust and improve overall patient care.”

7. Can you share an instance where you identified a potential health risk in a patient before it became a serious issue?

The ability to identify potential health risks early is a critical skill for a practical nurse. It not only demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of healthcare, but also your observational skills and your ability to act proactively. Employers want to ensure that their nursing staff can provide the highest level of care, which includes preventing health issues from escalating whenever possible.

Example: “During a routine check-up, I noticed a patient had an irregular heartbeat. Although the patient was asymptomatic and unaware of any issues, I recommended further testing based on my observations. The tests revealed early-stage arrhythmia which could have led to serious complications if left untreated. Prompt intervention allowed us to manage the condition effectively, preventing it from escalating into a life-threatening situation.”

8. How do you keep up-to-date with the latest nursing practices and advancements in healthcare?

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving with new research, techniques, and technologies. As a practical nurse, you are a vital part of the healthcare team, and it’s important that you stay updated on the latest practices to provide the best possible care. Employers want to ensure that you are committed to continuous learning and are proactive in keeping your skills and knowledge up to date.

Example: “I regularly attend workshops and webinars to stay updated with the latest practices in nursing. I also subscribe to several medical journals that cover advancements in healthcare. Participating in professional networks is another way I keep myself informed about new techniques, technologies, and best practices. Furthermore, I believe in continuous learning and often take up relevant courses or certifications to enhance my skills.”

9. Describe a time when you had to advocate for a patient. What was the outcome?

Patient advocacy is a critical skill for any healthcare provider, especially practical nurses. As a nurse, you are often the bridge between the patient and the rest of the healthcare team. This means that you need to be able to effectively communicate a patient’s needs and concerns to doctors, specialists, and other healthcare professionals, and sometimes even their family members. This question is asked to assess your ability to stand up for your patients and ensure their needs are met, a task that requires strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Example: “During my clinical rotation, I cared for an elderly patient who was hesitant about a scheduled surgery due to fear and lack of understanding. Recognizing her anxiety, I took the initiative to explain the procedure in simpler terms, emphasizing its importance for her health.

I also liaised with the surgeon to further discuss her concerns. This collaborative approach eased her worries, she consented to the surgery which ultimately improved her condition. It reinforced the significance of advocacy in ensuring patients’ comfort and adherence to necessary treatments.”

10. What measures do you take to ensure effective communication with a multidisciplinary team?

Ensuring patient health and safety is a team effort, requiring seamless communication and collaboration among doctors, nurses, aides, and sometimes even family members. As a practical nurse, your ability to effectively communicate with a multidisciplinary team can greatly impact patient care. This is why interviewers want to understand your communication strategies and how you ensure that everyone involved in a patient’s care is on the same page.

Example: “Effective communication in a multidisciplinary team is crucial. I ensure this by clearly articulating my thoughts and ideas, actively listening to others, and providing feedback when necessary.

I also utilize tools like email, chat applications, or project management software to keep everyone updated. Regular meetings are essential for discussing progress and addressing issues.

Understanding each team member’s role helps me communicate more effectively with them. It allows me to tailor my approach based on their expertise and responsibilities.

Respect is another key element. Recognizing the value of diverse opinions fosters an environment where open communication thrives. This respect can lead to better problem-solving and improved patient care.”

11. How do you handle emotionally charged situations, such as delivering bad news to a patient or their family?

In the healthcare field, particularly as a nurse, you’re often placed in the challenging position of balancing medical care with emotional support. Dealing with emotionally charged situations is a critical part of the job. Employers want to ensure that you can handle these scenarios with empathy, professionalism, and resilience, while still maintaining a high standard of care for your patients.

Example: “In emotionally charged situations, I prioritize clear and compassionate communication. It’s important to deliver bad news in a private, quiet setting where the patient or family can process the information.

I always ensure that I am fully prepared with all relevant facts before initiating such conversations. This allows me to answer any questions they may have accurately.

Empathy is key. I take time to understand their feelings and provide emotional support.

While it’s crucial to be honest about diagnosis or prognosis, I also focus on positive aspects, like treatment options or coping strategies.

Remembering that each person reacts differently helps me tailor my approach to suit individual needs.”

12. Can you explain a complex medical procedure to a patient in a way that they would understand?

A nurse’s role often requires them to bridge the gap between the medical world and the patient’s understanding. This means you need to be able to translate complex medical jargon and procedures into simpler terms that a patient can easily comprehend. It’s about demonstrating empathy, patience, and exceptional communication skills, which are all vital in the healthcare sector.

Example: “Absolutely. Let’s take a hip replacement surgery as an example. In simple terms, it involves removing the damaged parts of your hip joint and replacing them with artificial parts. This is done to alleviate pain and improve mobility.

First, the surgeon will make an incision near the hip to access the joint. The damaged ball of the hip joint is then removed and replaced with a metal stem that is set into the healthy part of the bone. A metal or ceramic ball is placed on this stem.

Next, the damaged area of the hip socket is hollowed out and replaced with a metal socket. Finally, a spacer is inserted between the new ball and the socket to allow for smooth gliding which resembles the movement of a natural, healthy hip.

The goal is to help you move more easily and without pain.”

13. How would you handle a situation where a patient refuses treatment or medication?

When it comes to healthcare, patients’ rights and autonomy are paramount. However, as a nurse, your primary concern is the well-being of your patient. Balancing these two elements can sometimes be a challenge. Therefore, hiring managers want to see how you navigate such complex, sensitive situations while respecting the patient’s rights, maintaining professionalism, and advocating for the best possible care.

Example: “In such situations, I would first ensure the patient fully understands their condition and the importance of the treatment or medication. If they still refuse, it’s crucial to respect their autonomy while ensuring their safety. I’d then document the refusal in their medical record, inform the relevant healthcare professionals, and continue monitoring the patient’s health closely. It’s about balancing ethical principles with professional responsibilities.”

14. What strategies do you use to manage stress in high-pressure situations?

As a nurse, you’ll often find yourself in the thick of things, where stress levels can run high. From dealing with a variety of patient needs to coordinating with other healthcare professionals under tight deadlines, the job can be a pressure cooker. That’s why hiring managers want to know that you have effective coping mechanisms in place. They want assurance that you can stay calm, focused, and efficient even when the going gets tough.

Example: “In high-pressure situations, I focus on maintaining a calm demeanor and approach the situation systematically. Prioritization is key; by identifying what needs immediate attention, I can allocate my time effectively.

I also practice mindfulness techniques to stay focused and reduce stress. This includes taking deep breaths and staying present in the moment rather than worrying about future tasks.

Lastly, I believe in open communication with my team. Sharing concerns and seeking assistance when necessary not only lightens individual burdens but promotes a supportive work environment.”

15. How do you ensure patient safety in your daily nursing practice?

Patient safety is a fundamental principle of healthcare and a critical indicator of quality care. In your role as a practical nurse, you’ll be tasked with handling patients, administering medication, and providing care. Therefore, it’s essential that you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to ensure patient safety. This question helps the interviewer understand your awareness and commitment to this vital aspect of nursing.

Example: “Patient safety is paramount in my nursing practice. I ensure this by maintaining a clean and safe environment, adhering to infection control protocols, and regularly checking equipment for functionality.

Effective communication with patients, families, and the healthcare team also plays a crucial role. This includes explaining procedures, listening to concerns, and addressing any misunderstandings promptly.

Moreover, I prioritize accurate medication administration and documentation, double-checking all orders before dispensing.

Finally, continuous learning and staying updated on best practices help me provide safe and effective care.”

16. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to a sudden change in patient condition?

The health of patients can change in a heartbeat (sometimes literally), and it’s critical that nurses are able to think on their feet and respond quickly and effectively. This question is designed to assess your capacity for quick decision-making, your ability to perform under pressure, and your knowledge of protocols in emergency situations.

Example: “During my clinical rotations, I was caring for a post-operative patient who suddenly became pale and started sweating profusely. Recognizing these as signs of possible shock, I immediately checked his vitals which showed a rapid pulse and low blood pressure.

I promptly informed the charge nurse and medical team about the change in condition while ensuring the patient remained calm. The team acted swiftly to stabilize the patient. This experience reinforced the importance of quick thinking, adaptability, and effective communication in nursing practice.”

17. How do you approach educating patients and their families about disease management and self-care?

Providing healthcare isn’t just about treating immediate symptoms—it’s about helping patients and their families understand their conditions and how to manage them long term. As a practical nurse, you play a pivotal role in patient education, from explaining medication regimens to demonstrating proper wound care. Interviewers want to know that you can communicate effectively and empathetically to ensure patients are equipped to take care of their health.

Example: “Educating patients and their families about disease management and self-care is a crucial part of nursing. I approach this by simplifying complex medical jargon into understandable terms, ensuring they fully grasp the situation.

I use visual aids and demonstrations to enhance understanding, especially when teaching them how to administer medication or perform certain procedures at home.

Patient involvement is key, so I encourage questions and provide clear, concise answers. It’s also important to assess their understanding periodically and reinforce information as needed.

For long-term care, I help them establish routines and provide resources for further support. Empathy plays a big role in my approach, as understanding their fears and concerns helps me tailor education strategies effectively.”

18. What is your experience with electronic health records and how comfortable are you in using them?

Electronic health records (EHRs) are becoming the standard in healthcare settings, replacing traditional paper charting. They improve efficiency, reduce errors, and facilitate communication among healthcare team members. Therefore, it’s essential for practical nurses to be comfortable using them. By asking this question, hiring managers are assessing whether you’re up to speed with this technology and can handle the digital aspect of the role.

Example: “I have extensive experience with electronic health records (EHR) from my previous job. I used them daily for tasks like updating patient information, scheduling appointments, and recording treatment details.

I’m comfortable using EHR systems as they improve efficiency in healthcare delivery. They allow easy access to patient history, which aids in making accurate diagnoses and providing effective treatment plans.

In terms of data privacy, I understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and following HIPAA guidelines when handling these records. I am also open to learning new systems if required.”

19. How have you dealt with a situation where you believed a colleague made a mistake in a patient’s care?

In healthcare, it’s critical to ensure that all team members are performing at their best to provide top-notch patient care. If there’s a mistake, it can literally be a life-or-death situation. This question is designed to assess your ability to handle such a critical and delicate situation in a professional manner. It’s about your ability to manage peer relationships, your capability to communicate effectively and your commitment to patient safety.

Example: “In a situation where I believed a colleague made an error in patient care, my approach is always to prioritize the well-being of the patient. I would first double-check the information to ensure there was indeed a mistake.

After confirming, I’d privately discuss it with the colleague involved, presenting my concerns in a respectful and non-confrontational manner. If they agreed with my assessment, we could then correct the issue together.

If the problem persisted or if the colleague disagreed, I would escalate the matter to our supervisor or appropriate authority within the healthcare team. This ensures that any potential harm can be mitigated promptly while maintaining professionalism and respect among colleagues.”

20. Describe a time when you had to handle an emergency situation. What steps did you take and what was the outcome?

When it comes to nursing, crisis management skills are of utmost importance. The ability to stay calm, think fast, and act decisively could mean the difference between life and death. This question allows interviewers to assess your ability to handle stress, make quick yet accurate assessments, and take appropriate action, which is critical in the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of healthcare.

Example: “During a night shift, I noticed one of my patients was displaying signs of a stroke. Immediately, I alerted the medical team and initiated emergency response protocols. This included monitoring vital signs, ensuring patient comfort, and preparing for potential life-saving procedures. The swift action resulted in timely treatment that significantly reduced damage from the stroke. It reinforced the importance of vigilance and quick thinking in nursing.”

21. How do you handle end-of-life care and conversations with terminally ill patients and their families?

Being a nurse is not just about clinical skills—it’s also about emotional intelligence and empathy. End-of-life care is a particularly sensitive aspect of the job, and it requires grace, compassion, and an ability to handle intense emotions. By asking this question, interviewers want to evaluate your readiness to deal with such scenarios, your ability to provide comfort to patients and their families, and your emotional resilience under pressure.

Example: “Handling end-of-life care requires empathy, compassion, and excellent communication skills. It’s crucial to approach these conversations with sensitivity and respect for the patient’s autonomy. I aim to provide clear information about their condition, treatment options and prognosis in a way that they can understand.

When discussing with families, my focus is on providing emotional support while ensuring they are well-informed about the patient’s situation. I believe it’s essential to encourage open dialogue where questions and concerns can be addressed.

In terms of care, my priority is to ensure the patient’s comfort and dignity are maintained at all times. This includes managing pain effectively, offering psychological support, and respecting their wishes regarding their care and eventual passing.”

22. Can you describe a time when you had to use your clinical judgement to make a decision?

Being a nurse isn’t just about following a doctor’s orders. You’re expected to use your clinical judgment to make decisions that could impact a patient’s health or even save their life. Interviewers want to hear about your ability to act independently, use critical thinking skills, and make decisions in high-pressure situations, all of which are part of a nurse’s daily job.

Example: “During my clinical rotation in a geriatric ward, I was assigned to a patient who had recently undergone hip surgery. The patient seemed unusually agitated and complained of severe pain despite being on strong analgesics.

Instead of dismissing it as post-surgery discomfort, I trusted my clinical judgement that something might be wrong. I immediately reported the situation to the supervising nurse and requested for an urgent review by the doctor.

It turned out the patient was developing a complication – Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). My prompt action led to early intervention which potentially saved the patient’s life. This experience reinforced the importance of trusting one’s clinical judgement even when symptoms seem commonplace.”

23. How do you ensure that you provide culturally sensitive care to patients from diverse backgrounds?

Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, often work with patients from diverse cultures and walks of life. It’s essential for these professionals to provide culturally sensitive care, understanding and respecting patients’ backgrounds, beliefs, and values. A potential employer wants to ensure that you can deliver this type of empathetic and respectful care, which can significantly affect the patient’s comfort and trust level, and ultimately, their health outcomes.

Example: “Culturally sensitive care begins with understanding and respect for each patient’s unique cultural background. I continuously educate myself about various cultures, customs, and health beliefs to better serve my patients.

Communication is key in providing culturally competent care. I use interpreters when necessary and employ visual aids or other resources to ensure clear understanding.

I also strive to create an inclusive environment by incorporating a patient’s cultural practices into their care plan whenever possible. This approach not only respects their culture but also enhances their comfort level and trust in the healthcare process.

Overall, it’s about treating every patient as an individual, acknowledging their unique needs, and delivering personalized care that honors their cultural identity.”

24. What is your experience with wound care and what techniques do you use to prevent infection?

Medical hiring managers are keen to understand your hands-on experience and knowledge of best practices. Wound care is a critical area in nursing, and preventing infection is a key component of that. Your answer will help them gauge your technical expertise, adherence to safety protocols, and ability to take proactive steps in patient care.

Example: “I have extensive experience in wound care from minor cuts to surgical wounds. My approach includes a thorough cleaning with antiseptic, application of appropriate dressing and regular monitoring for signs of infection.

To prevent infections, I adhere strictly to hygiene protocols such as handwashing, using sterile gloves, and ensuring the environment is clean. Patient education on wound care at home is also crucial.

In cases of complex wounds, I collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop an effective wound management plan. This often involves debridement or use of advanced dressings like hydrocolloids or alginates.”

25. Can you talk about a time when you had to deal with a patient who was in severe pain?

Pain management is one of the most common and critical components of nursing. As a potential hire, you need to show that you can handle these situations with compassion and professionalism. This question helps hiring managers see how you approach pain management, how you communicate with patients, and how you balance patient comfort with the need to perform necessary medical procedures.

Example: “During my clinical rotation, I encountered a patient suffering from severe post-operative pain. Understanding the urgency of the situation, I promptly assessed his vitals and pain level using the Numeric Rating Scale.

I communicated these findings to the attending physician immediately. Meanwhile, I comforted the patient by explaining that help was on the way and ensured he was in a comfortable position.

Once the doctor ordered the medication, I administered it while continuously monitoring the patient’s response. This experience taught me the importance of quick decision-making, effective communication, and empathy when dealing with patients in severe pain.”

26. How do you manage your time and tasks during a typical shift?

Nursing, especially in a practical or busy hospital setting, is all about multitasking and prioritizing. You need to be able to assess a situation quickly, determine which tasks are most important, and handle them efficiently without sacrificing the quality of care. Therefore, recruiters want to ensure you have effective time management skills and a strategy to handle the unpredictable and fast-paced nature of this role.

Example: “In managing my time and tasks during a shift, I prioritize based on patient needs. Critical cases are attended to first, followed by routine checks and administrative work.

I use tools like digital calendars and task management apps for reminders and tracking progress. This helps me stay organized and ensures no task is overlooked.

Moreover, effective communication with the team aids in efficient delegation of tasks when necessary. It’s crucial to maintain flexibility as priorities can change quickly in a healthcare setting.”

27. Can you describe an instance where you had to work with a difficult colleague and how you handled it?

As a practical nurse, you’re part of a larger healthcare team and the ability to work cohesively with others is absolutely critical. A difficult colleague can disrupt the team dynamic and negatively impact patient care. By asking this question, interviewers are trying to gauge your interpersonal skills, your ability to navigate conflict, and how you maintain professionalism under stressful circumstances.

Example: “In a previous work setting, I had a colleague who was often uncooperative and negative. This made teamwork challenging at times.

To address this issue, I initiated a private conversation with them to understand their perspective better. I found out they were dealing with personal issues which affected their behavior at work.

I empathized with their situation but also communicated how their attitude impacted the team’s morale and productivity. We agreed on strategies for improvement, including seeking support from our supervisor when necessary.

This approach improved our working relationship significantly. It taught me the importance of open communication and understanding in resolving conflicts.”

28. Describe a challenging ethical dilemma you have faced in your nursing career and how you resolved it.

Nursing is a profession that often grapples with ethical dilemmas. From end-of-life decisions to medical treatments that might do more harm than good, nurses are constantly in situations where they have to balance their professional obligation to do what’s best for their patients with their own personal beliefs. By asking about a challenging ethical dilemma, hiring managers are looking to assess your judgment, problem-solving skills, and ability to navigate complex situations in healthcare.

Example: “One of the most challenging ethical dilemmas I faced involved a terminally ill patient who wanted to hasten his death, but his family was against it.

I respected both parties’ perspectives and understood their pain. However, my role as a nurse is to provide care and comfort, not aid in ending life.

To resolve this, I engaged our hospital’s ethics committee for guidance. We also provided counseling services to the patient and his family. This allowed them to openly discuss their fears and emotions, leading to a mutual understanding.

In the end, we focused on providing the best palliative care possible, ensuring the patient’s comfort and dignity were maintained until his natural passing. This experience taught me the value of open communication and empathy in resolving ethical dilemmas.”

29. What is your approach to maintaining a therapeutic relationship with patients while setting professional boundaries?

The role of a practical nurse is a unique blend of professional skills and personal touch. Hiring managers want to ensure that you have the ability to form a positive, therapeutic relationship with patients, which is crucial for their comfort and recovery. At the same time, it’s important that you understand and maintain professional boundaries to ensure appropriate and ethical care. This question allows them to assess your interpersonal skills and professional judgment.

Example: “Maintaining a therapeutic relationship with patients involves clear communication, empathy, and respect for their individual needs. I believe in active listening to understand their concerns and providing appropriate responses.

However, setting professional boundaries is equally important. This includes maintaining confidentiality, avoiding personal involvement, and ensuring decisions are made in the patient’s best interest.

Striking this balance requires professionalism and emotional intelligence – understanding when to provide comfort while also knowing when to step back. It’s about creating a safe space where patients feel heard and cared for without crossing professional lines.”

30. How do you handle situations where you have to deliver care that might be against your personal beliefs or values?

As a nurse, your job requires you to provide care to all kinds of patients, including those whose lifestyles, beliefs, or actions might conflict with your own. The interviewer wants to know that you can put your personal feelings aside and professionally deliver high-quality care to all patients, regardless of your personal beliefs or values.

Example: “In nursing, the primary duty is to provide care and support for patients. If a situation arises where my personal beliefs conflict with professional obligations, I would remind myself that as a nurse, my role is to advocate for the patient’s needs and wishes.

I believe in maintaining an open dialogue about such situations with colleagues or supervisors. This can help me gain different perspectives and find the best solution while upholding ethical standards.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities. The focus should always be on providing the highest standard of care for the patient.”

30 Dean Of Academics Interview Questions and Answers

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