Master These Nursing Interview Questions to Secure a Good Job

Table of Contents

• Nursing Job Interview Questions and Answers
• Tips to Prepare for the Nursing Interview
• How to Research About the Facility?
• Conclusion
• FAQs on Nursing Interview Questions

Are you an aspiring nurse or an experienced professional? If yes, then you have surely made a great career choice!

But, when interviewing for nursing jobs, you might face some challenges. No matter you are looking for entry-level posts or applying for leadership roles, putting yourself out in the job market is often nerve-racking.

Probably the most difficult part of getting a job is preparing for the nursing interview questions. You don’t know what’s coming your way, so you might be unable to showcase your skills and qualifications properly and lose an important opportunity (even if you are qualified for the position!) But it’s not the case when you have done some homework and prepared for commonly asked interview questions!

Here, we are going to explore different nursing job interview questions and their potential answers, along with some interview preparation tips.

Nursing Job Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to answering nursing interview questions, there is no one-size-fits-all. Every candidate has a unique skill set and experience, so the best answers are based on specific experiences and real-life examples.

While the sample interview questions and answers listed below are not comprehensive or perfect, they can give you a base for your interview and increase your chances of securing that desired job.

Interview Questions And Answers on Teamwork

Being a team player is important in healthcare, whether you are in a hospital or other facility. It’s what every employer wants to know – that you will work with others even in high-stress situations.

1. Describe a situation where you had to work with a difficult co-worker. How did you handle it?

When you answer this question, say something about your solution, not something about criticizing your colleague. Mention something that you learned from the experience.

Sample Answer:

“I have worked a shift with a nurse who was always late, and that would affect the whole team. I spoke to her in private and asked her if a change in shifts would help her to be on time. She was relieved and said yes. We changed her shift, and the problem was over. This experience will remind me how initiative is beneficial for the team.”

Why it works: This answer shows understanding, communication, and the resolution of an issue. Employers want nurses who can work through tough situations and provide a solution.

2. Tell me about a time when you were unexpectedly assigned a leadership role. What is the scenario, and were you satisfied with your response?

Employers are looking for nurses to lead and take pride in their accomplishments. Even if you are a new graduate, describe any leadership experience from volunteering or school projects.

Sample Answer:

“I was assigned to lead a team of junior nurses. I was focused on patient-centered care and efficiency. We were able to engage patient families, and each member of our team was committed to the delivery of quality healthcare. Among all the experiences, my finest moment was seeing a team member obtain their licensure as a specialist nurse, and I felt satisfied knowing I contributed to their success.”

Why it Works: This answer demonstrates your leadership, commitment to patient care, and desire to mentor others.

3. Describe a time when you felt proud of your healthcare team. What was your role in contributing to your team’s success?

Nursing units often experience success, and the interviewer would like to hear about a time when you and your team did something well. Be specific and describe your role.

Sample Answer:

“Our med-surg team had a patient who started to decline. We discovered that his feeding tubes were infected. We rapidly cleaned them and got them under control to prevent further injury. I helped coordinate the team’s effort to make certain we were working in an effective and productive manner.”

Why It Works: The example showcases your ability to remain calm during stress while collaborating well with your team to achieve desired results.

4. How do you like working in a team?

Teamwork is an indispensable part of nursing. The interviewer must be assured that you like being in the company of a team and enjoy every moment of working with them.

Sample Answer:

“I love working in a team environment. I’m a flexible person, and I believe the best patient outcomes are achieved as the result of teamwork. Also, the variety in points of view my colleagues bring is appealing. I don’t mind working alone, but I always learn something new when I work in a team.”

Why It Works: This response lets the interviewer know that you’re a team player, but also independent at the same time.

5. Describe a time there was a miscommunication between you and a teammate. How did you handle it?

Miscommunications happen; it is how you resolve them that matters. Solve the problem and describe the steps taken to address the issue.

Sample Answer:

“A colleague had difficulties communicating during shift handoffs, which caused misunderstandings. I talked with her directly (in a friendly manner) concerning the need for clarity in information. She appreciated the feedback I provided and began taking notes for handoffs. It improved our communication. I learned that speaking your mind doesn’t have to be confrontational. “

Why It Works: This answer exemplifies your ability to resolve issues calmly and enhance team communication.

Interview Questions And Answers on Patient Care

No matter which type of nursing specialty you are in, patient care is at the heart of this profession. The interviewer wants to know that you will go out of your way to build a good relationship with all your patients.

1. Describe a problematic patient you had in the past. How did you handle that situation?

Difficult patients are part of the job. Your response should reflect that you can deal with such situations in a constructive way without compromising the quality of care.

Sample Answer:

“As a pediatric nurse, it can be tough to get children to take their medicine. Well, I had this one child who would literally cry and get upset every time we had to give him medication. So one day, I asked him, “What’s your favorite ice cream?” And his answer was chocolate. So I got some chocolate pudding, offered it with his medicine, and it worked. He stopped crying during medication time. And, well, I made a new friend.”

Why it works: This response shows that you’re creative and will go out of your way to solve problems.

2. How would you handle questions from a patient’s family and friends?

Family and friends often have many questions, and it’s important to balance answering them with taking care of the patient.

Sample Answer:

“I am always empathetic, knowing I would have questions if it were my loved one. I answer them kindly and patiently. I also make sure to set boundaries by letting them know I may not know the answer to every question so they understand the situation.”

Why It Works: This response describes that you are sensitive to the concerns of the family but at the same time would not forget setting boundaries.

3. Can you explain situations without using a lot of medical jargon? Give an example.

Medical terminologies are often confusing for patients. Nurses have to know how to explain things in a way that will be understood by all.

Sample Answer:

“Since patients come from all walks of life, I always try to break down medical jargon into simple language best understood by them. For example, if the doctor orders diagnostic imaging, I would explain that it means the patient will get an X-ray. I even ask the patient to repeat what he or she thinks they hear so I can make sure they understand it.”

Why it works: This response lets the interviewer know that you take the time to make sure that patients understand their care.

4. What are your thoughts on effective patient and family education?

All patients learn in different ways, and education must be adjusted accordingly.

Sample Answer:

“Patient education works when the focus is on the patient and his/her family’s needs. I try to understand each group’s learning style and adjust accordingly. Some patients prefer reading instructions, others learn better from videos, and some just want the basics. The involvement of the family in this process is very important because they usually become the main caregivers. When you include them in the process, it increases their interest and participation.”

Why it works: This answer conveys that you are adaptable, attentive to patients and their family members, and value family involvement in the care process.

5. Have you ever had a family member or patient who was not satisfied with your care? What was your response?

Not everyone will like the care you provide. Your answer should convey that you are solution-focused rather than taking it personally.

Sample Answer:

“I always try to give quality care to any patient. But sometimes patients or families may not agree with the care. Once, I had a patient who complained that I gave him his insulin too fast. He told my supervisor that I was not being gentle enough. So, from that time onwards, I went slower with him to meet his needs and provide patient-centered care.”

Why it works: This response shows that you have heard feedback and are able to make an adjustment to offer better service to your patients without being defensive.

Interview Questions And Answers on Background and Personality

Your personality will also play an important role when interviewing for nursing opportunities. The interview gives you a chance to show how you might fit into their team. Questions about you, your personality, and your career path are common.

1. Tell me about yourself.

It may sound like a broad question, but now is your opportunity to discuss why you are the best fit for the team. Other than giving them all of your life story, bring up your qualifications for the job and your skills.

Sample Answer:

“I am an avidly dedicated nurse with eight years of experience in pediatrics. I love providing patient-centered care and helping my patients recover. Over the years, one important thing I have learned is that – quality care comes from empathy. Each and every patient is different, so personalized attention is essential. I pride myself on my capabilities to manage various patient loads. I believe this goes in tune with your company’s mission: ensuring patient-centered care.”

Why it works: This response gives a brilliant overview of your skill and passion, and it shows you’ve done your homework about the company.

2. Why did you become a nurse?

This question is not about your background, but also about making sure that your ambitions align with the values of the facility.

Sample Answer:

“My family has always been involved with medicine. My grandfather and uncle were both doctors, and a lot of my aunts and cousins are nurses. So, it was a natural thing to do. I always had a desire to help people in useful and compassionate ways.”

Why it works: This response lets them know that your care and concern for others run deep in your family values, which speaks volumes about your motivation to become a nurse.

3. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

Honesty is important. All nurses have their own strengths and weaknesses. However, be cautious when describing a weakness – don’t make yourself sound incompetent.

Sample Answer:

“My greatest strength is communication. I am good at educating the patient and empathizing with them, explaining in a manner that they will understand. I guess empathy is a strength, too, because I always try to see it through the eyes of the patient. For example, I had an older patient who missed her garden; thus, I brought her a small potted plant. She loved it, and it made her more accepting of the treatments. My biggest weakness is over-committing. I love my job, and I sometimes try to do too much. I need to slow down and learn to trust my team.”

Why it works: This response will show that you care about your patients and state your weaknesses in a way that still highlights your passion without sounding negative.

4. Why do you want to work with us? What interests you about this job profile?

This is your chance to show them you’re really interested in the facility and not just in the benefits. Do your homework to find out about the achievements and values of the hospital.

Sample Answer:

“I have always wanted to work in a facility championing patient-centered care. Your hospital has received several awards such as HSE Health Service Excellence Award for high-quality care and you are even ranked among the top hospitals across the country. I would feel proud working at such a highly-regarded institution.”

Why it works: This answer demonstrates that you have done your homework and that your goals align with the mission of the facility.

5. What are your career goals?

Hiring managers want to know they are hiring nurses who are ambitious yet realistic. Be ready with a list of both immediate and long-term goals.

Sample Answer:

“My goal is to become an emergency room nurse practitioner. I hope to be able to mentor other nurses one day and pass on what I have learned. I also plan to move into a management role where I can oversee and also teach nurses. I am excited about this opportunity, as I feel it will help me accomplish my long-term goals.”

Why it works: It shows you have reflected on your self-development and career path, which any employer would want in a candidate.

Interview Questions And Answers on Adaptability and Flexibility

The nursing job often deals with changes in scenarios within a blink of an eye. Showing that you can be flexible and agile is one sure way to impress the interviewer.

1. Describe a time when you were under extreme pressure. What did you do? What methods were useful?

Nursing is always considered a very stressful occupation, and hiring managers wish to know whether you are capable of managing pressure healthily and effectively.

Sample Answer:

“As an ICU nurse, I am stressed each and every day. I had to accept extra workload once when one of my teammates was sick. The situation was managed by listing all my patients and the things I had to do for them, and then I planned what kind of care was more critical. In this way, I had control over the extra workload. Outside the hospital, I do yoga to keep stress from affecting my life outside the hospital.”

Why it works: This question shows that you can manage your workload when you’re under pressure and you take steps to control your stress.

2. What do you do when you don’t know the answer to something at work—whether it’s how to address a situation or the answer to a patient question?

The hiring manager wants to know whether you will be confident to find the right solution when you do not know the answer.

Sample Answer:

“If I am uncertain about something work-related, I ask for help. I believe in putting patient care first always; so I’m honest if I don’t know something. I make sure to find the answer quickly by asking someone with more experience or knowledge in the specialty area.”

Why it works: The above response means that you are humble, honest, and committed to ensuring patients receive optimal care.

Tips to Prepare for the Nursing Interview

Preparing for these questions will help you successfully pass the interview and go further in the hiring process. However, you also need to consider some additional things.

Things to Consider for a Phone Nurse Interview:

Phone interviews are often the first step in the hiring process for nurses. Preparing for a phone interview requires a different approach than in-person interviews, but with the right strategy, you can make a strong impression. Here are some tips to help you get ready:

• Find a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted during the call.
• Have your resume, job description, and keynotes in front of you for easy reference.
• Speak clearly and confidently; smile while talking to sound more friendly.
• Practice answering common nursing interview questions out loud.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.
• Ensure your phone is fully charged and that your signal is strong.
• Avoid multitasking; stay focused and listen carefully to the interviewer.

Things to Consider for an In-Person Nurse Interview

In-person interviews allow you to make a more personal connection with the hiring manager. To make the most of this opportunity, it’s important to be well-prepared and present yourself professionally. Here’s how to get ready:

• Dress professionally, appropriate for a healthcare setting.
• Bring a nursing portfolio that includes your resume, certifications, licenses, letters of recommendation, and examples of your work or achievements to showcase your skills and experience.
• Plan your route to the interview location and aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early.
• Practice good posture, make eye contact, and offer a firm handshake.
• Review common nursing interview questions and practice your answers.
• Research the interviewers, if possible, and learn about their roles.
• Prepare a few questions to ask the interviewer about the facility and the role.
• Send a thank-you email after the interview to express your appreciation.

How to Research About the Facility?

A little homework about the facility usually goes a long way in any nursing interview. Showing your interviewer that you have knowledge about the facility’s values, culture, and reputation can be an added advantage. The following are helpful tips on how to effectively research the facility:

• Go to the Facility’s Website: Start with the official website. Head to “About Us,” “Mission and Values,” and “Careers.” These pages give good insight into what the facility considers important, their goals, and how they offer patient care. Take note of the awards, recognitions, and accreditations they have received.
• Recent News and Press Release: Read news articles or press releases that involve the facility from recent times. This gives an idea of recent successes, new initiatives, or problems they are facing. Understand what is happening currently to help you set up your answers to show your contribution to their current efforts.
• Review Patient Feedback: Health-specific review websites give an idea of the facility’s reputation from a patient perspective. While no place is perfect, look for patterns in the reviews that can show some indication of where the facility’s strengths lie or where they are trying to improve.
• Social Media: Social media sites like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter are a wealth of information. Follow their official accounts to see how they interact in their community and the types of initiatives they are promoting. This will also give insight into the culture of the facility and their interactions with staff and patients.
• Speak with Present or Past Employees: If you know someone currently working or who has worked in the facility, make sure to connect with them. They’ll be able to give you the best idea of what it’s like working there, the management style, and how it feels being part of the team. If you don’t know anyone, then LinkedIn can be a great resource to connect with either current or former employees.
• Find Out Their Challenges: Any challenges or controversies the facility has faced in recent times due to staffing shortages, budget cuts, or patient care controversies. Knowing this may help you prepare thoughtful answers in how you may be able to assist in these matters. 
• Learn About Their Competitors: Knowing their competitors can give further understanding of their position in the market. Knowing this can help you position yourself as a valuable addition to the team, especially if you can point out what makes the facility unique compared to others in the area.

Conclusion

Nailing a nursing interview is about more than just answering questions correctly—it’s about showing who you are as a healthcare professional and how you’ll fit into the team. By preparing thoughtful answers, doing your homework on the facility, and understanding what makes you unique, you’ll be ready to stand out.

Whether through a phone interview or in person, your goal is to leave the interviewer with a clear sense of your skills, adaptability, and passion for patient care. Remember, this is your chance to connect with your future colleagues and demonstrate why you fit the role.

When you are ready for nursing interviews, explore our nursing jobs!

FAQs on Nursing Interview Questions