Nursing interview questions are designed to examine the job seeker’s qualifications and determine whether they are the right person for the role. Hiring managers and employers ask these questions to evaluate candidates and ensure they’ll fit in their organization and contribute to their efforts.
In this article, we’ll examine the most common nurse interview questions. You’ll learn what these questions are, why hiring managers ask them, and how you should respond. We’ll also give you examples of good answers to use as inspiration. Let’s get started!
What Are Employers Looking For in a Nurse?
Employers typically look for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications when hiring a nurse. Here are some of the key ones:
Qualities Employers Seek
Clinical competence. Having clinical skills is vital for nursing professionals. Employers will likely ask nursing interview questions to see whether you can provide evidence of sufficient knowledge, nursing skills, and practical experience.
Nursing credentials. Appropriate credentials, like degrees or certifications, validate your knowledge and competence.
Patient-centered mindset. In addition to technical qualifications, employers look for nurses who can provide compassionate care and treat patients with respect.
Teamwork and collaboration. Nurses primarily work in interdisciplinary teams, so employers ask teamwork interview questions to determine whether they collaborate well and can contribute to common goals.
Resilience and adaptability. The nursing job can be physically and emotionally demanding. That’s why it’s crucial to know how to navigate challenging situations, adapt to newfound circumstances, and handle stress.
How to Answer Nursing Interview Questions
One of the best ways to answer nursing interview questions is by using the STAR method. This is a structured approach that leverages storytelling techniques to give a concise and information-packed answer.
The STAR method consists of the four following steps:
Answering Nursing Questions Effectively
Situation. To give the interviewer context, you should start by describing the situation. This can be a challenging patient you had or an emergency scenario.
Task. Explain your level of involvement by talking about your role in that scenario.
Action. Follow up by giving the interviewer the exact steps you took to address the issue and carry out the task that you’ve been given.
Result. Capitalize on everything you just said by sharing the positive results of your actions.
While the STAR method can’t be used to answer every question, it’s the best one for nursing behavioral interview questions.
13 Nursing Interview Questions w/ Sample Answers
Now, let’s examine the most common nurse interview questions and answers to discover why job interviewers ask them and how you should respond.
#1. Describe a time you went above and beyond for a patient.
Hiring managers ask this nursing interview question to evaluate your commitment to patient care. Your answer should highlight your willingness to go the extra mile and your empathy and initiative.
Here’s a good example:
Good Answer
“A severely ill patient was feeling isolated during the pandemic because their family and friends couldn’t visit. I needed to ensure their well-being and provide emotional support.
That’s why I arranged regular video calls with the patient’s relatives and took the extra time to talk to them in addition to mandatory care. Ultimately, their morale lifted, and the family expressed their appreciation for the effort.”
This answer uses the STAR method to highlight not just the nurse’s clinical skills but also their empathy, diligence, and problem-solving ability. It’s a comprehensive answer that shows how the nurse improved the patient’s well-being with more than typical clinical duties.
#2. Describe a time when you were dealing with a difficult coworker.
This question aims to determine how you handle conflict. Since the nursing job involves plenty of teamwork, employers want to know how you handle challenging interpersonal situations that are bound to occur.
Let’s see a solid example of an answer to this nurse interview question:
Good Answer
“My colleague and I once had a differing opinion on how to care for a patient. This led to tension, and I realized we had to resolve the conflict to ensure proper care and maintain a positive work environment.
That’s why I called the coworker for a conversation, expressed my point of view, and actively listened to their statement. We found a compromise, giving the patient the necessary care while strengthening our professional relationship.”
This answer works as it shows a proactive approach and demonstrates maturity and a professional, patient-oriented mindset.
#3. What do you do when the patient asks about something you do not know?
The purpose of this question is to determine whether patient trust is a priority to you. Your answer should showcase how you handle uncertain situations and what you do to ensure the accuracy of the information.
Here’s an example:
Good Answer
“If a patient asks about something I don’t know, I first acknowledge their concerns, tell them any details that I know, and assure them that I will find the correct answer as soon as possible.
I then contact coworkers who specialize in that field and have more experience than me or look for the answer using reliable resources. Once I am certain of my knowledge, I report back to the patient, ensuring a transparent and honest relationship.”
The main reason this answer works is because it shows integrity. You are not expected to know everything, but employers value nurses who are able to solve problems with an honest and proactive approach.
#4. How do you handle changes in your schedule or unit?
This is a common nursing job interview question that assesses your adaptability and flexibility in a highly volatile healthcare environment.
Here’s an excellent way to answer it:
Good Answer
“I understand that the nursing profession requires a lot of flexibility and adaptability. When I encounter a change in my schedule or unit, I remain calm and assess the situation while prioritizing quality care for my patients. I take the time to analyze these changes or review new protocols and determine how I can adapt to them as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
This answer shows that you’re familiar with the unpredictability connected to the nursing profession. It demonstrates your willingness to embrace change and tackle challenges with a calm demeanor and determination to succeed without compromising patients’ well-being.
#5. How do you explain medical terms to patients?
This nurse interview question indirectly examines your communication skills. Your answer shows employers whether you’re able to convey complex ideas and technical information in a simple way. This is essential to ensure that patients can understand you, helping you provide them with optimal care.
Let’s check out an example of a good answer:
Good Answer
“When explaining medical terms to patients, I start by considering their background. A quick analysis tells me what type of language I can use. Then, I use a combination of simplified terminology, analogies, and visual aids to clarify complex concepts. Once I finish explaining, I ask them whether they have any questions to verify if they fully understood what I was saying.”
An answer like this shows that your verbal communication skills are on point. It demonstrates that you can express yourself clearly and precisely, adapting your language to each individual patient to ensure they are adequately informed.
#6. How do you handle high stress/pressure?
Employers want to know how you handle stress and pressure because stress can significantly impact a nurse’s quality of life and caring behaviors. A good answer should highlight your ability to remain composed and perform well in situations of high pressure.
Let’s see that in an example:
Good Answer
“During one particularly busy shift, we had to admit multiple patients that required urgent attendance. I needed to remain calm and give everyone the necessary care.
After a quick reorganization and brief communication with the team, I took a moment to focus and reprioritize my tasks. We successfully managed the situation, and I ensured every patient received the care they needed.”
This answer demonstrates the candidate’s composure and the ability to maintain quality care in demanding situations.
#7. Why did you become a nurse?
The primary intent behind this nursing interview question is to explore your motivation and passion for the profession. Employers always look for driven candidates since they are likely to be committed to the craft and perform optimally.
Here’s an example of an answer to this nursing interview question:
Good Answer
“I became a nurse because I always had a passion for helping others. Growing up, I experienced several situations where healthcare professionals helped my family in difficult times.
These encounters resonated with me, and I decided to become a professional who can help and support others. Through nursing, I make a tangible difference in people’s lives, and I find that immensely fulfilling.”
This comprehensive answer shows the candidate’s deep connection to their profession and profound motivation to help and care for others.
#8. Describe a situation where you disagreed with the doctor and how you handled it.
This is one of the trickier interview questions designed to discover how you navigate conflicting situations. Sometimes, you must advocate for your patients while maintaining polite and professional relationships with doctors.
Check out this example of a good answer:
Good Answer
“I once noticed a doctor prescribing medication that conflicted with the one the patient was already taking. I needed to address the issue to ensure my patient’s well-being, so I approached the doctor privately and explained my case.
I backed my point of view with evidence and reviewed the patient’s chart with the doctor. They ended up agreeing to prescribe an alternative that would help avoid potential adverse reactions in the patient.”
This answer shows the candidate’s focus on prioritizing patient care while simultaneously demonstrating their ability to overcome disagreements professionally.
#9. How would you handle a crisis (such as an outbreak)?
Nurses offer essential support during crises. They are on the front lines, which is why employers want to know whether you can remain calm and effective during these times.
Here’s one way to answer this nursing interview question:
Good Answer
“During last year’s seasonal flu outbreak, our department was flooded with patients. My task was to ensure everyone followed infection control procedures while managing the increased patient load.
I coordinated with an interdisciplinary team, delegating tasks based on each member’s critical strengths while ensuring everyone followed mandatory PPE protocols. We managed to care for all patients while preventing further spread of the flu among healthcare staff and other patients.”
This is a strong answer as it highlights the candidate’s ability to stay composed and professional during a crisis, prioritize tasks, lead others, and handle challenging situations efficiently.
#10. Describe a situation where the patient's family was difficult.
Hiring managers ask this nursing interview question to examine your interpersonal skills. Nursing professionals often have to interact with patients’ families and must be ready for challenging situations. They need to remain calm during interactions that can be emotionally charged.
Here’s a good example:
Good Answer
“I had a situation where a patient’s family was upset because they weren’t clear on the treatment plan. I needed to address their concerns to resolve the issue, maintain a positive relationship, and continue treating the patient.
I contacted the family for a meeting and took the time to listen to their worries. After explaining the treatment step-by-step and addressing any concerns they had, they ended up being comfortable with it and thanked me for clarification.”
This is a solid answer, as it shows the nurse’s ability to have difficult conversations and convey complex information with patience and empathy.
#11. How do you stay current with the latest nursing practices?
This nursing interview question examines whether you practice continuous learning and improvement. Your answer shows how engaged you are in your career and how committed you are to professional development.
Let’s see an example:
Good Answer
“I stay current with nursing practices by regularly attending professional improvement events, like workshops and conferences. I am also subscribed to several nursing journals, where I read about the latest research in the field.
Finally, I am a member of several social media groups and online boards where I regularly participate in peer discussions before applying evidence-based practices to my work.”
This response shows a proactive approach to professional development. It also highlights the candidate’s efforts to stay updated on the latest and best practices through multiple channels, ensuring an optimal learning experience.
#12. Describe a time when you had to make a quick decision.
The purpose of this question is to assess your decision-making skills. Hiring managers ask this to determine whether you can think quickly and act decisively in states of emergency. This is also one of the nursing leadership interview questions that allows you to display your initiative.
Here’s an excellent way to answer it:
Good Answer
“During one of my shifts in the ER, a patient went into sudden cardiac arrest. I had to respond immediately to stabilize their condition, so I instantly started CPR while calling for additional support. I continued with CPR until the code team arrived with the crash cart, successfully resuscitating them. My quick response and their efforts saved the patient’s life.”
This is a great response, as it shows how the nurse behaves under pressure and makes a quick and correct decision, getting the best possible outcome.
#13. How do you handle a shortage of staff?
Staff shortages are common in healthcare settings, and the ability to overcome them is essential for experienced nurses. When hiring managers ask this nursing interview question, they want to find out whether you can continue working and maintain a high standard of patient care even when understaffed.
Here’s how you can answer this question:
Good Answer
“One day, we encountered a sudden shortage of staff due to several coworkers calling in sick. My task was to manage the workload without compromising the quality of care.
I arranged a quick meeting and collaborated with the team to distribute the assignments evenly and efficiently, ensuring that no patient was overlooked or staff member was overburdened. Despite the shortage, we managed to provide sufficient care to everyone.”
On top of showcasing how they efficiently handled the staff shortage, this answer also demonstrates the candidate’s teamwork, organization, and delegation skills.
9+ Additional Questions for the Nursing Interview
Now, let’s explore some of the more common interview questions. These can be interview questions for nursing assistants and chief nursing officers alike, but also for any other role or even profession:
General Questions
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Why should we hire you?
What are your salary expectations?
What is your greatest strength?
What is your greatest weakness?
How do you handle criticism?
How do you handle failure?
Tell us about a time when you demonstrated leadership capabilities.
Why were you fired from your last job?
Job interviewers can ask these questions regardless of your profession or the position you’re after. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with them and come up with good answers in advance.
4 Expert Tips for a Successful Nursing Interview
Before we finish this thorough guide on nursing interview questions, here are a couple of expert tips that will help you ace the interview:
Nursing Interview Tips
Research the company. By researching the hospital, clinic, or healthcare organization you want to join, you’ll discover what they are looking for in candidates. That will help you prepare better answers for your interview.
Ask meaningful questions. It’s not uncommon for hiring managers to ask if you have any questions for them toward the end of the interview. Asking something insightful you couldn’t find out during your research shows commitment and genuine interest in the job.
Wear an appropriate outfit. A professional outfit and punctuality convey seriousness and leave a strong first impression on the interviewer. This can also help you feel more comfortable, reducing any potential interview anxiety.
Be honest and authentic. While your answers can be improved to highlight your skills and qualifications better, you don’t want to oversell yourself or lie about your competence. Honesty is essential and will maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
Final Thoughts
The faster-than-average job outlook of 6% for nurses means there will be more than 177,000 new openings between 2022 and 2032. One of the best ways to secure one of those spots is with a strong nurse resume, a well-written nursing cover letter, and proper preparation for a job interview.
The key concepts stay the same whether you’re a newly qualified nurse (NHS) or a nursing supervisor. Being mindful of the STAR method and aware of all the potential questions you can encounter during an interview will maximize your chances of success. Remember to showcase compassion and motivation on top of your technical skills, and you’ll ace the meeting!
