Top 30 Most Common Nurse Interview Questions You Should Prepare For
Written by
Jason Miller, Career Coach
Landing a nursing position requires more than just clinical skills; it demands confidence, clarity, and a strong understanding of what interviewers are looking for. Mastering common nurse interview questions can significantly boost your chances of success. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and sample answers to ace your next nursing interview.
What are nurse interview questions?
Nurse interview questions are a set of inquiries posed by potential employers to assess a candidate's qualifications, skills, experience, and suitability for a nursing role. These questions typically cover a broad range of topics, including clinical expertise, patient care philosophy, teamwork abilities, problem-solving skills, and ethical considerations. Preparing for nurse interview questions is crucial for job seekers in this field to showcase their strengths and demonstrate their commitment to providing quality patient care.
Why do interviewers ask nurse interview questions?
Interviewers ask nurse interview questions to evaluate whether a candidate possesses the necessary competencies and personal attributes to excel in a nursing position. They are trying to assess a candidate's technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, practical experience, and ability to handle challenging situations. Through these nurse interview questions, interviewers aim to understand how a candidate thinks under pressure, how they interact with patients and colleagues, and how they contribute to a positive and efficient healthcare environment. A strong performance on nurse interview questions demonstrates preparedness and professionalism.
Here is a preview of the 30 nurse interview questions we'll cover:
Can you tell me about yourself?
Why did you choose nursing as a profession?
What have you done since graduation?
Name three words to describe yourself.
What is your greatest strength?
What is one of your weaknesses?
What are your short-term goals?
What are your long-term goals?
Did you research the hospital before coming today?
How did you hear about this position?
What aspect of our mission statement appeals to you most?
What do you know about the New Grad program?
Why do you want to work at this facility?
What clinical skills have you performed?
Have you worked with CNAs? How did you delegate tasks?
Would you be willing to relocate if offered this position?
What is common sense?
Why should we hire you?
How do you handle a difficult or angry patient?
Describe a time you worked in a team and resolved a conflict.
How do you manage multiple patients with urgent needs?
What would you do if you made a medication error?
How do you stay current with new medical knowledge?
Describe a time you went above and beyond for a patient.
How do you handle stress and burnout?
Describe a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.
How do you ensure patient confidentiality?
What questions do you have for us?
Describe your experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems.
How do you handle feedback from supervisors?
## 1. Can you tell me about yourself?
Why you might get asked this:
This question is an icebreaker and allows the interviewer to gauge your personality, communication skills, and overall fit for the role. It provides an opportunity to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the nursing position. Preparing for nurse interview questions like this one sets the tone for the rest of the interview.
How to answer:
Focus on your professional background and relevant skills. Highlight your passion for nursing, your experience in similar roles, and your key strengths. Keep it concise and avoid personal details that are not relevant to the job.
Example answer:
"I'm a dedicated and compassionate nurse with three years of experience on a busy medical-surgical unit. I'm passionate about patient education and teamwork, and I thrive in fast-paced environments. My experience has honed my assessment skills and ability to prioritize in critical situations, which I believe aligns well with the demands of this role. I'm eager to contribute my skills and learn from the experienced team here."
## 2. Why did you choose nursing as a profession?
Why you might get asked this:
Interviewers ask this question to understand your motivation for pursuing a career in nursing and to assess your level of commitment to the profession. Understanding your passion helps them determine if you are truly invested in patient care. Preparing for nurse interview questions about your motivation is key.
How to answer:
Share a personal story or experience that inspired you to become a nurse. Emphasize your desire to help others, your passion for healthcare, and the fulfilling aspects of the nursing profession. Avoid generic answers and be authentic.
Example answer:
"I was inspired by the care nurses provided to my grandmother during her illness. I saw the difference compassionate care made in her life and wanted to impact others in the same way. Witnessing their dedication solidified my desire to provide that same level of support and healing to those in need. Nursing felt like a calling, a way to combine my scientific interests with my innate desire to help people through challenging times."
## 3. What have you done since graduation?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps the interviewer understand how you've been developing your skills and gaining experience since completing your nursing education. It's a way to assess your proactivity and commitment to continuous learning. Consider this when preparing for nurse interview questions.
How to answer:
Describe any relevant experiences, such as NCLEX review courses, licensing exams, volunteer work, or related healthcare positions you've held. Emphasize the skills and knowledge you've gained and how they have prepared you for a nursing role.
Example answer:
"Since graduation, I completed an NCLEX review course, passed the licensing exam, and began working as a nurse aide to gain hands-on experience while applying for RN positions. I also volunteered at a local clinic to maintain and improve my skills in a practical setting. These experiences have reinforced my clinical knowledge and provided me with valuable patient interaction skills, making me a more prepared and confident candidate."
## 4. Name three words to describe yourself.
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps interviewers quickly assess your personality and whether your traits align with the requirements of the nursing role and the organization's values. Thoughtful answers to nurse interview questions like this are important.
How to answer:
Choose words that reflect your strengths and positive qualities as a nurse. Provide brief examples of how you demonstrate these traits in your work.
Example answer:
"Empathetic, reliable, and detail-oriented. I believe these three words capture my approach to nursing. I strive to understand my patients' emotional needs, I'm committed to being a dependable member of the team, and I pay close attention to every detail to ensure the best possible patient outcomes."
## 5. What is your greatest strength?
Why you might get asked this:
Interviewers ask this to identify your key strengths and how they can benefit the healthcare team and patient care. Highlighting your strength is a key element of nurse interview questions.
How to answer:
Choose a strength that is relevant to the nursing profession, such as communication, critical thinking, or teamwork. Provide a specific example of how you have used this strength to achieve a positive outcome in a clinical setting.
Example answer:
"My greatest strength is my ability to stay calm under pressure and communicate effectively with both patients and colleagues. For example, during a code blue situation, I was able to clearly relay vital information to the team while simultaneously reassuring the patient's family. This allowed for coordinated and efficient care, ultimately contributing to a positive outcome for the patient."
## 6. What is one of your weaknesses?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps interviewers assess your self-awareness and your ability to identify areas for improvement. They want to see that you are honest and proactive about personal development. When preparing for nurse interview questions, think about your weaknesses ahead of time.
How to answer:
Choose a weakness that is not critical to the nursing role and explain how you are actively working to improve it. Frame your weakness in a positive light and demonstrate a growth mindset.
Example answer:
"Sometimes I am overly detail-oriented, which can slow me down, but I am working on prioritizing tasks more efficiently. I've started using time-management techniques and prioritizing checklists to ensure I'm focusing on the most critical tasks first. This allows me to maintain my attention to detail while still meeting deadlines and patient needs effectively."
## 7. What are your short-term goals?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps interviewers understand your immediate career aspirations and whether this role aligns with your goals. It shows that you're thinking strategically about your career path. Consider this when prepping for nurse interview questions.
How to answer:
Focus on goals that are achievable within the first year of employment, such as mastering specific skills, becoming proficient in hospital systems, or contributing to team projects.
Example answer:
"In six months, I want to be fully integrated into the team and have mastered the hospital’s EMR system. I also aim to become a valuable resource for my colleagues by proactively learning hospital policies and procedures. Ultimately, my short-term goal is to contribute to a cohesive and efficient team that delivers excellent patient care."
## 8. What are your long-term goals?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps interviewers understand your career ambitions and whether the organization can provide opportunities for growth and advancement. It helps gauge your commitment to the nursing profession over time. Preparing for nurse interview questions should include thinking about long-term goals.
How to answer:
Share your long-term career aspirations, such as specializing in a particular area of nursing, pursuing advanced education, or taking on leadership roles. Show that you are ambitious and committed to lifelong learning.
Example answer:
"In five years, I hope to specialize in critical care nursing and possibly pursue a clinical nurse specialist role. I am committed to lifelong learning and believe that continuous professional development is essential for providing the best possible patient care. I envision myself contributing to the advancement of nursing practice through research, education, and leadership."
## 9. Did you research the hospital before coming today?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your level of interest in the organization and your preparation for the interview. It shows that you are genuinely interested in working at their facility. Research is key when preparing for nurse interview questions.
How to answer:
Highlight specific aspects of the hospital that resonate with you, such as awards, recognition, mission statement, or specific programs. Demonstrate that you have a good understanding of the organization's values and goals.
Example answer:
"Yes, I explored your hospital’s website, read about recent awards for patient safety, and reviewed your mission statement emphasizing compassionate care. I was particularly impressed by the hospital's commitment to patient-centered care, which aligns perfectly with my personal values. I also noticed your strong focus on employee development, which is something I highly value in a workplace."
## 10. How did you hear about this position?
Why you might get asked this:
This question provides insight into how candidates learn about job opportunities and helps the organization evaluate their recruitment strategies.
How to answer:
Be honest about how you heard about the position, whether it was through a job board, a referral, or a social media platform. If you were referred by someone, mention their name and your connection to them.
Example answer:
"A former colleague recommended your hospital and spoke highly of the supportive environment. She mentioned the strong teamwork and emphasis on professional growth, which immediately caught my attention. Knowing that someone I respect enjoys working here made me even more eager to apply."
## 11. What aspect of our mission statement appeals to you most?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses whether your values align with the organization's mission and goals. It demonstrates that you understand what the hospital stands for and how you can contribute to their mission. Understanding the mission statement is critical when preparing for nurse interview questions.
How to answer:
Choose an aspect of the mission statement that resonates with you personally and explain why it is important to you. Provide specific examples of how you have demonstrated this value in your work.
Example answer:
"Your commitment to patient-centered care aligns with my values of individualized and holistic nursing. I believe that every patient is unique and deserves care that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences. In my previous role, I always made an effort to understand each patient's individual concerns and preferences, which resulted in improved patient satisfaction and outcomes."
## 12. What do you know about the New Grad program?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps assess your understanding of the support and training available to new graduates within the organization.
How to answer:
Show that you have researched the New Grad program and understand its structure, goals, and benefits. Highlight how the program aligns with your professional development goals.
Example answer:
"I understand it is designed to support new graduates with training, mentorship, and gradual responsibility to ensure a smooth transition. I am particularly drawn to the mentorship aspect of the program, as I believe that learning from experienced nurses is essential for my growth and development. I am confident that this program will provide me with the tools and resources I need to succeed as a new nurse."
## 13. Why do you want to work at this facility?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps gauge your genuine interest in the organization and whether you have a clear understanding of what it offers.
How to answer:
Highlight specific aspects of the facility that appeal to you, such as its reputation, culture, opportunities for growth, or specific programs. Show that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
Example answer:
"I am impressed by your hospital’s reputation for excellent patient outcomes and a strong teamwork culture. I have heard from other nurses that this facility fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, which is very important to me. I also admire your hospital’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, as demonstrated by your recent implementation of a new electronic health record system."
## 14. What clinical skills have you performed?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your practical experience and technical skills in a clinical setting.
How to answer:
List specific clinical skills that you have performed, such as IV insertion, wound care, medication administration, patient assessments, and monitoring vital signs. Provide details about your experience and level of proficiency in each skill.
Example answer:
"I have experience with IV insertion, wound care, patient assessments, and administering medications. During my clinical rotations, I regularly performed IV insertions under the supervision of experienced nurses. I also have experience with various types of wound care, including dressing changes, wound irrigation, and negative pressure wound therapy. I am proficient in performing comprehensive patient assessments and accurately documenting findings in the electronic health record."
## 15. Have you worked with CNAs? How did you delegate tasks?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to work effectively with other members of the healthcare team and your delegation skills.
How to answer:
Describe your experience working with CNAs and explain how you delegated tasks based on their skills and experience, patient needs, and scope of practice. Emphasize clear communication and teamwork.
Example answer:
"Yes, I worked closely with CNAs in clinical rotations. I delegated tasks based on staff expertise and patient needs, ensuring clear communication. For example, I would delegate vital sign measurements, hygiene care, and ambulation assistance to CNAs while I focused on medication administration and patient assessments. I always made sure to provide clear instructions and answer any questions to ensure that tasks were completed safely and effectively."
## 16. Would you be willing to relocate if offered this position?
Why you might get asked this:
This question helps the organization determine your willingness to move to the location of the job.
How to answer:
Be honest about your willingness to relocate. If you are open to relocation, express your enthusiasm and explain why you are interested in the area. If you are not willing to relocate, be polite and explain your reasons.
Example answer:
"I would be open to relocation if it aligns with my career and personal goals. I am excited about the opportunity to work at your facility and believe that this position would be a great fit for my skills and experience. I am willing to explore the possibility of relocating to make it work."
## 17. What is common sense?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to use practical judgment and make sound decisions in real-life situations, which is crucial in nursing.
How to answer:
Define common sense as the ability to use practical intelligence and sound judgment to make appropriate decisions in everyday situations. Provide an example of how you have used common sense in a clinical setting.
Example answer:
"Common sense is using practical judgment to make sound decisions in real-life situations. For example, if a patient is experiencing difficulty breathing, common sense would dictate that I should immediately assess their airway, administer oxygen, and notify the physician, even if it's not explicitly written in their care plan. It's about recognizing and responding to urgent needs based on practical knowledge and critical thinking."
## 18. Why should we hire you?
Why you might get asked this:
This question gives you the opportunity to summarize your qualifications and highlight why you are the best candidate for the job.
How to answer:
Emphasize your skills, experience, and personal qualities that make you a strong fit for the nursing role and the organization. Highlight your accomplishments and how you can contribute to their success.
Example answer:
"You should hire me because I combine clinical competence with strong interpersonal skills and a dedication to patient advocacy. I have a proven track record of providing high-quality patient care, effectively communicating with patients and colleagues, and advocating for my patients' needs. I am also a quick learner, a team player, and I am committed to lifelong learning and professional development. I'm confident I would quickly become a valuable asset to your team."
## 19. How do you handle a difficult or angry patient?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to manage challenging patient interactions and maintain a calm and professional demeanor.
How to answer:
Describe your approach to de-escalating difficult situations, which includes active listening, empathy, clear communication, and problem-solving. Emphasize your commitment to patient safety and comfort.
Example answer:
"I remain calm, listen actively, and address concerns empathetically, always prioritizing patient safety and comfort. I try to understand the root cause of their anger or frustration by asking open-ended questions and actively listening to their responses. I validate their feelings and express my understanding of their perspective. If necessary, I involve other members of the healthcare team, such as a supervisor or social worker, to help resolve the situation."
## 20. Describe a time you worked in a team and resolved a conflict.
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your teamwork and conflict-resolution skills, which are essential in a healthcare setting.
How to answer:
Share a specific example of a time when you were part of a team that experienced a conflict. Describe the situation, your role in resolving the conflict, and the positive outcome.
Example answer:
"Once, a disagreement arose about patient assignments. I facilitated a team discussion to clarify roles, improving workflow and morale. Several nurses felt overwhelmed by the workload. I initiated a team meeting where everyone could voice their concerns. By openly discussing our challenges and clarifying each person's responsibilities, we were able to redistribute tasks more equitably. This not only improved workflow but also boosted team morale, leading to better patient care."
## 21. How do you manage multiple patients with urgent needs?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and remain calm under pressure when caring for multiple patients with varying levels of acuity.
How to answer:
Describe your approach to prioritizing patients based on acuity, using time management techniques, and delegating tasks to other members of the healthcare team.
Example answer:
"I prioritize patients based on acuity, use time management, and rely on my support team to ensure no one is overlooked. I start by quickly assessing all patients to identify the most critical needs, then I create a prioritized list of tasks. I also utilize effective time management techniques, such as grouping similar tasks together and delegating tasks to other team members when appropriate. Regular communication with the team ensures that everyone is aware of the patients' needs and we can work together efficiently."
## 22. What would you do if you made a medication error?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your honesty, accountability, and commitment to patient safety in the event of a medication error.
How to answer:
Explain that you would immediately report the error to your supervisor, assess the patient for adverse effects, follow hospital protocol, and complete an incident report to prevent future errors.
Example answer:
"I would immediately report the error to my supervisor, inform the patient if possible, follow hospital protocol, and complete documentation to prevent recurrence. Patient safety is my top priority, so I would first assess the patient for any adverse reactions. Then, I would promptly report the error to my supervisor and follow hospital protocol for documenting the incident. Finally, I would reflect on the error and identify steps to prevent it from happening again, such as double-checking medications or clarifying unclear orders."
## 23. How do you stay current with new medical knowledge?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your commitment to lifelong learning and professional development in the ever-evolving field of nursing.
How to answer:
Describe the methods you use to stay current with new medical knowledge, such as attending continuing education courses, reading nursing journals, participating in professional conferences, and engaging in online learning platforms.
Example answer:
"I attend continuing education courses, read nursing journals, and participate in professional conferences. I also subscribe to several reputable nursing journals and participate in online forums and discussion groups. I believe that continuous learning is essential for providing the best possible patient care."
## 24. Describe a time you went above and beyond for a patient.
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your compassion, empathy, and commitment to providing exceptional patient care.
How to answer:
Share a specific example of a time when you went above and beyond to meet a patient's needs or provide extra support. Highlight the positive impact of your actions on the patient.
Example answer:
"A patient was anxious about discharge. I spent extra time explaining procedures and arranged follow-up, which the patient appreciated. She was particularly worried about managing her medications at home. I sat down with her and created a detailed medication schedule, explained each medication's purpose and potential side effects, and provided her with resources for medication assistance programs. The patient expressed immense gratitude for my support and left feeling much more confident about managing her health at home."
## 25. How do you handle stress and burnout?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to manage stress, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and prevent burnout, which is important for your well-being and your ability to provide quality patient care.
How to answer:
Describe the strategies you use to manage stress and prevent burnout, such as practicing mindfulness, exercising, spending time with loved ones, and seeking support from colleagues or a therapist.
Example answer:
"I maintain a healthy work-life balance, practice mindfulness, and seek support from colleagues when needed. I make a conscious effort to prioritize my physical and mental health by exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness techniques, and spending quality time with my family and friends. I also maintain open communication with my colleagues and supervisor and seek their support when I am feeling overwhelmed. A healthy work-life balance allows me to be a more effective and compassionate nurse."
## 26. Describe a challenge you faced and how you overcame it.
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your problem-solving skills, resilience, and ability to learn from challenging experiences.
How to answer:
Share a specific example of a challenging situation you faced in a clinical setting, describe the steps you took to address the challenge, and explain the positive outcome.
Example answer:
"During a staffing shortage, I helped redistribute tasks, communicated updates, and supported my team to ensure patient care wasn’t compromised. The nursing unit was short-staffed due to unexpected illnesses. I volunteered to work an extra shift, helped redistribute tasks among the available staff, and communicated regular updates to patients and their families. I also provided emotional support to my colleagues who were feeling overwhelmed. By working together as a team, we were able to maintain a high level of patient care despite the challenging circumstances."
## 27. How do you ensure patient confidentiality?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your understanding of HIPAA guidelines and your commitment to protecting patient privacy.
How to answer:
Explain that you follow HIPAA guidelines, discuss patient information only in secure settings, and use hospital-approved communication methods.
Example answer:
"I follow HIPAA guidelines, discuss patient information only in secure settings, and use hospital-approved communication methods. I understand the importance of protecting patient privacy and confidentiality, and I take it very seriously. I only discuss patient information with authorized personnel in private settings, and I never share patient information on social media or through unsecured communication channels. I also ensure that all electronic devices are password-protected and that I log off of computer systems when I am finished using them."
## 28. What questions do you have for us?
Why you might get asked this:
This question gives you the opportunity to show your interest in the position and the organization by asking thoughtful and relevant questions.
How to answer:
Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer, such as questions about opportunities for professional development, the team culture, or specific aspects of the role.
Example answer:
"Can you tell me more about opportunities for professional development and mentorship within your team? I'm always looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge, and I would be particularly interested in pursuing certifications or advanced training in a specialized area of nursing. Additionally, I'm curious about the typical career progression for nurses within your organization."
## 29. Describe your experience with electronic health records (EHR) systems.
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your familiarity and proficiency with EHR systems, which are widely used in healthcare settings.
How to answer:
Describe the EHR systems you have used, your level of proficiency, and how you have used them for charting, medication administration, and care coordination.
Example answer:
"I have used Epic and Cerner for charting, medication administration, and care coordination, and I adapt quickly to new technology. I am proficient in using EHR systems to document patient assessments, administer medications, order tests, and coordinate care with other members of the healthcare team. I am also familiar with using EHR systems to generate reports and track patient outcomes. I am confident in my ability to quickly learn and adapt to any new EHR system that your organization uses."
## 30. How do you handle feedback from supervisors?
Why you might get asked this:
This question assesses your ability to receive constructive criticism and use it to improve your performance.
How to answer:
Explain that you view feedback as an opportunity to grow, listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and apply suggestions to improve your practice.
Example answer:
"I view feedback as an opportunity to grow. I listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and apply suggestions to improve my practice. I believe that feedback is essential for continuous improvement and that it helps me to identify areas where I can enhance my skills and knowledge. I am always open to receiving feedback from my supervisors and colleagues, and I strive to use it to become a better nurse."
Other tips to prepare for a nurse interview questions
Preparing for nurse interview questions requires a comprehensive approach. Consider these additional strategies:
Mock Interviews: Practice answering common nurse interview questions with a friend, mentor, or career counselor.
Review Core Nursing Concepts: Refresh your knowledge of key nursing concepts and clinical procedures.
Research the Organization: Familiarize yourself with the hospital's mission, values, and recent achievements.
Prepare Questions to Ask: Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates your interest and engagement.
Practice STAR Method: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and provide specific examples.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of questions should I expect in a nurse interview?
A: You should expect questions about your clinical experience, patient care philosophy, teamwork skills, problem-solving abilities, and ethical considerations. Be prepared to discuss specific situations and how you handled them.
Q: How important is it to research the hospital before the interview?
A: It is very important. Researching the hospital demonstrates your interest in the organization and allows you to tailor your answers to align with their mission and values.
Q: How should I handle questions about my weaknesses?
A: Be honest but choose a weakness that is not critical to the nursing role. Explain how you are actively working to improve it and demonstrate a growth mindset.
Q: What should I wear to a nursing interview?
A: Wear professional attire, such as a suit or business-casual outfit. Make sure your clothes are clean, well-fitting, and comfortable.
“The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” - Stephen Covey
Good luck with your interview preparation!
