Preparation is key when it comes to interviewing for your dream nursing job. Knowing how to answer the most common nursing interview questions and what to ask your interviewer will set you apart from other candidates and help you leave a lasting impression.
In our complete nursing interview guide, we will cover:
- Common interview question themes
- 15 common nursing interview questions with sample answers
- How to best answer nurse interview questions
- Questions to ask in your nursing interview
- Top tips to help you prepare for your nursing interview
We understand that the interview process can feel overwhelming, but with these tips and tricks to help you prepare, you’ll be able to land a job in no time.
Common interview question themes
Before focusing on specific questions, it helps to understand the main topics that will likely be covered in your interview. Interviewers will typically want to know about your personality along with your teamwork and patient care skills. Let’s look at each theme and why each matters.
Personality
Employers want to know that you have the right attitude for patient care. Traits like compassion, empathy, patience, and emotional strength make a real difference as they help you to build trust, improve communication, and lead to better outcomes.
In nursing interviews, a potential employer will look for these qualities in your past experiences and in scenario-based questions. Showing that you genuinely care about patients and can stay calm under pressure will help to prove that you’re not just qualified, but are truly committed to the role.
Teamwork
Possibly one of the more important skills to have as an employee is teamwork. In healthcare, collaboration between nurses, doctors, and other staff is essential to ensure patients get safe, effective, and timely treatment.
Problem-solving
An employee who is good at problem solving is extremely sought after in any field, but especially in healthcare settings. In the field of nursing, problems that arise can quite literally mean life or death, so it’s important to be able to effectively problem-solve.
Patient care
An obvious yet important skill that employers need to know about is the quality of patient care you provide. Do you try to treat patients as quickly as possible, or do you take time and listen to their needs or concerns? Employers want to see that you prioritize patients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and well cared for.
Adaptability
When choosing between a candidate who responds well to change versus a candidate who does not respond well to change, the more adaptable candidate will always have a better chance at landing the job. Employers often need nurses who can adapt to new circumstances as needed.
Time management
This skill is essential when it comes to the field of nursing. With so much to do in a day, it’s imperative that you can manage your tasks and time appropriately so that the quality of patient care isn’t overlooked.
Values and goals
A person’s values and goals can tell you a lot about who they are as an individual and as a worker. Employers find it beneficial to know what you have planned for your future, what you prioritize most in life, and how those priorities align with the role and workplace culture.
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15 common nursing interview questions with sample answers
While every interview is different, we’re here to help you anticipate the kinds of questions you might face. As you prepare, review the following nursing interview questions and answers to get comfortable with ones that do often come up.
Personality and cultural fit questions
1. Why did you become a nurse?
This common nursing interview question is asked to understand your motivation for becoming a nurse, which can reveal their passion, commitment, and alignment with the organization's values.
Sample answer
I became a nurse because I had a family member who was hospitalized, and I saw firsthand the impact that compassionate and skilled nurses had on their recovery. I wanted to be that person for others.
Why is this a good answer?
This is a strong answer because it highlights your motivation for entering the field. It shows you're driven by a genuine desire to help others, not just by a paycheck, which is a core quality every great nurse should have.
2. How do you handle feedback?
This nursing interview question gives you the perfect opportunity to show that you are open to self-improvement and constructive feedback, which is something that employers are always looking for in a good nurse.
Sample answer
I view feedback as an essential part of my professional growth. I listen carefully, reflect on the suggestions and take actionable steps to improve my practice. Constructive feedback helps me enhance my skills and ultimately provide better care for my patients.
Why is this a good answer?
Employers will love this answer because it shows them that you’re capable of hearing feedback and taking it into account. As professionals, we continue to learn and grow everyday, and feedback is a big part of that process.
3. Why do you want to work for our organization?
Interviewers will ask this question so that they can gauge your enthusiasm for the position, as well as how likely you are to stay with the organization long-term. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who will be in it for the long run.
Sample answer
I want to work with you because I admire your commitment to patient-centered care and your focus on continuous improvement. Your values align with my passion for providing high-quality care, and I believe I can positively contribute to your team while growing professionally in such a supportive environment.
Why is this a good answer?
If your values genuinely align with the organization’s, make sure to highlight that. It shows the interviewer that your passions match their mission and that you're seeking a place to grow. Expressing interest in long-term growth signals commitment, something most employers highly value.
4. Where do you see yourself in your nursing career in five years?
This question can tell you a lot about a person based on how they answer it. Employers will know how motivated you are, as well as how well you'll align with the organization.
Sample answer
As a nurse, some of my goals include continually improving my clinical skills to provide the best patient care possible, pursuing advanced certifications to specialize in my field, and fostering strong relationships with my patients and their families.
Why is this a good answer?
This answer shows that you're a well-rounded professional committed to both personal growth and high-quality patient care, two qualities employers deeply value.
5. What sets you apart from other nurses?
By sharing what sets you apart from other nurses, you can explain the unique value that you could bring to the organization. This question also gives the interviewer insight into your confidence when it comes to
Sample answer
What sets me apart from other nurses is my unwavering commitment to patient care and my proactive approach to continuous learning. I consistently seek out opportunities to enhance my skills and knowledge, whether that be through advanced certifications, workshops or staying updated with the latest healthcare practices.
Why is this a good answer?
This is a favorable answer to this interview question as it shows that patient care and career development are priorities for you. Many employers are looking for nurses who they know they can trust. Having nurses you can count on is a game changer in the field of healthcare.
Problem-solving and adaptability questions
6. What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your nursing career? How did you overcome it?
This question might come up in your nursing interview because the employer wants to know more about your problem-solving skills. This is a great opportunity to showcase your adaptability and resilience as a nurse.
Sample answer
One of the biggest challenges I faced was during a particularly busy shift when we were short-staffed. It was overwhelming, but I prioritized patient care by focusing on the most critical needs first and communicating effectively with my team. I also leaned on my colleagues for support, which helped us manage the situation better.
Why is this a good answer?
Answering this way sends a strong positive signal to any healthcare employer. It shows you're a proactive nurse who stays composed under pressure and values teamwork, knowing when to seek support rather than risking mistakes by going it alone.
7. Name a time when your facility had undergone change. How did you cope with that?
Again, an interviewer might ask this question to get a better idea of your problem-solving and adaptability skills. With this question, you can also demonstrate other keys skills, such as teamwork and communication.
Sample answer
When our facility implemented a new electronic health record system, it was a significant change for everyone. To adjust to the change, I actively participated in training sessions and collaborated with colleagues to share tips and best practices. By staying positive and supporting each other, we adapted more quickly and improved our workflow, ultimately enhancing patient care.
Why is this a good answer?
This kind of answer stands out because it highlights your adaptability and positive mindset. It shows you won't just adjust to change out of necessity, but will embrace it, an attitude every employer looks for.
8. Talk about a time when you experienced a stressful scenario in the workplace. How did you deal with it?
In healthcare settings, stressful situations can arise rather frequently. Employers need nurses who respond to stressful situations in a well thought out and rational way when providing care to patients.
Sample answer
I once managed a stressful situation with multiple trauma patients from a car accident. With the department at full capacity, I prioritized tasks based on patient severity, communicated effectively and delegated efficiently. By staying calm and relying on teamwork, we provided necessary care and stabilized the situation.
Why is this a good answer?
This is another great answer for this type of question because it exemplifies your ability to stay calm and think rationally in stressful scenarios. Since nurses need to function effectively in emergencies and stressful situations, being able to keep a clear head and stay diligent is crucial.
9. How do you manage a heavy patient assignment when short staffed?
This question often comes up in nursing interviews because employers want to know how well you can manage your time and stress levels. When working in a fast-paced environment such as nursing, these are important skills to factor in when hiring new nurses.
Sample answer
When I feel overwhelmed with my workload, I take a moment to prioritize my tasks and focus on the most urgent ones first. I also communicate with my team for support and delegate when possible.
Why is this a good answer?
This answer shows the interviewer that you’re able to manage your tasks efficiently on your own. Since there is a good chance that you’ll work a short-staffed shift throughout your career, it’s reassuring for employers to know you can step up and perform effectively when it matters most.
10. Describe a time when you made a mistake. How did you correct your mistake?
The most important part of answering this question is to show the employer that you take accountability for your actions and that you are committed to making sure that mistakes don’t happen again.
Sample answer
Early in my career, I administered a medication at the wrong time and immediately informed my supervisor. We assessed the patient for any adverse reactions and monitored them closely. I took full responsibility, documented the error, reviewed protocols and participated in additional training. This experience taught me the importance of double-checking orders and reinforced my commitment to patient safety.
Why is this a good answer?
This question can be a tricky one, but as long as your answer shows them that you took accountability and did everything you could to resolve the issue, then employers will be impressed. We’re all human, which means we’ll make mistakes here and there. Therefore, as long as you learn from any errors and try to be the best you can, you’ll be respected.
Teamwork questions
11. Tell me about a time you experienced conflict among your team. How did you handle the situation?
This nursing interview question will likely be asked so that the interviewer can get a better idea of your conflict resolution and communication skills. You’ll want to answer this nursing interview question in a way that shows that you know how to maintain a productive team environment when conflict arises.
Sample answer
Once, there was a disagreement between team members about the best approach to a patient's care plan. I facilitated a meeting where everyone could express their concerns and ideas. By encouraging open communication and focusing on our shared goal of providing the best care for the patient, we were able to reach a consensus and improve our teamwork moving forward.
Why is this a good answer?
This was the best action to take because it demonstrates your communication , conflict resolution, and teamwork skills. Even if you believe your approach was best, it’s important to show that you’re open to different perspectives as collaboration often leads to better outcomes.
Patient care questions
12. Tell me about a time when you had to advocate for your patient.
This question assesses your commitment to patient care and your ability to act as a patient advocate. It reveals whether you can identify when a patient's needs are not being met or if the course of care needs to be reevaluated.
Sample answer
I once cared for a patient who was complaining of pain that was not relieved with medication. I reviewed her chart and discussed options with the doctor. I ended up ordering a heating pad that took her pain level down to a manageable level.
Why is this a good answer?
By answering the question this way, you’ve shown the interviewer that patient satisfaction is important to you. Not all patients will have someone to advocate for them, so you need to make sure you’re the one who’s going to support them during those difficult times.
13. In the past, how have you dealt with a patient’s family when they were not satisfied with your care?
Many interviewers will ask healthcare professionals this question because this issue is bound to happen at some point, even if you think you’ve done everything correctly. The key to answering this question is to ensure you’re coming off as compassionate, empathetic and professional.
Sample answer
When I encountered a family that was not satisfied with the care provided, I made it a priority to listen to their concerns. I empathized with their feelings and provided clear explanations about the care plan and the rationale behind our decisions. By maintaining open communication and involving them in the process, I was able to rebuild trust and ensure they felt heard and supported.
Why is this a good answer?
During times of stress, friends and family of the patient may take out their frustration on you. This answer is a great example of what you should say because it highlights your willingness to keep the family at ease and do whatever you can to help them understand the rationale behind the decisions made.
14. Tell me about a time a patient or their family were particularly pleased with your care.
You might come across this question in a nursing interview because the employer wants to know about the quality of care you provide. Do you do the bare minimum, or do you go above and beyond?
Sample answer
One memorable instance was when I cared for a patient recovering from surgery. I took the time to explain each step of their recovery process and addressed their concerns with empathy. After their discharge, the family expressed their gratitude for the attention and support, which made a significant difference in their experience.
Why is this a good answer?
Showing your interviewer that personalized attention is important to you when caring for patients will greatly impress them. When patients feel respected, heard, and well-informed, they’re more likely to share their positive experiences, enhancing the reputation of the healthcare facility.
15. How do you handle difficult patients who do not want to receive care?
When answering this nursing interview question, you want to make sure your response reflects that you’re a patient, professional and empathetic nurse who is focused on delivering the best outcome for their patients.
Sample answer
When faced with difficult patients who resist care, I first try to understand their concerns. I listen actively to their reasons for reluctance and provide clear, compassionate explanations about the importance of the treatment. By respecting their autonomy and involving them in decision-making, I aim to create a collaborative environment that encourages them to reconsider their choices.
Why is this a good answer?
This is a great answer because it demonstrates that you’re the type of nurse that takes patients’ feelings and opinions into account. Being able to reason with them and understand why they feel the way they do will allow you to earn their trust, often leading them to listen to your thoughts as well.
How to best answer nurse interview questions
When responding to nursing interview questions, it is best to use the STAR method. It’s great for crafting clear, compelling, and structured answers.
STAR stands for:
- Situation - setting the scene with relevant context
- Task - explaining the challenge or responsibility you faced
- Action - describing the specific steps you took
- Result - sharing the outcome and what you learned
Using the STAR method ensures your responses are focused and purposeful. The last thing you want is to nervously ramble through a story that lacks direction or clarity. Practicing a few key examples ahead of time will help you stay confident and organized, so when the pressure’s on, your experience speaks for itself.
Questions to ask in your nursing interview
Asking questions in a nursing interview is essential. It shows that you're engaged, curious, well-prepared, and genuinely interested in the role. But remember, don’t ask questions for the sake of it. Instead, have a list of questions that you genuinely want answered.
Here are some examples of good questions to ask in your nursing interview:
Onboarding questions
- What does your orientation period entail?
- Do you have programs in place to help orient new staff?
- What advice would you give to a nurse joining this unit?
Career path and development questions
- What opportunities does your organization offer for career development and continuing education?
- How does the organization measure success for this role?
- Are there opportunities to gain additional training or certifications at this facility?
Company culture questions
- What is the biggest challenge someone in this role would face?
- How would you describe the work environment and culture of your organization?
- What values does your organization prioritize?
General questions
- Can you describe what a typical day or week would look like for someone in this role?
- What is the biggest challenge someone in this role would face?
- What do you like most about working at this organization?
Top tips to help you prepare for your nursing interview
Do in-depth research about the facility
Show the interviewer you came prepared by doing research about their organization. Know their values, mission statement, and community initiatives to show that you’re genuinely interested in working at their organization.
Make sure you know what the job entails
Before applying for a job, familiarize yourself with the job description and candidate requirements. Don’t apply to jobs that won’t work with your schedule or skills. For instance, don’t apply to a position that only has night-shifts available if you prefer to work during the day.
Dress to impress
When in doubt, it’s always better to overdress when it comes to interviews. A nice outfit and put together appearance will no doubt give your interviewer a good impression. Since first impression are lasting, be sure to not only look the part, but to act the part. Bring confidence, warmth, and enthusiasm, and let your knowledge and passion for nursing shine through.
Ensure your resume is professional and up to date
Since most resumes will probably only be looked at for 30 seconds tops, make sure it is updated and easy to read. Don’t use any flashy fonts, pictures, or designs. Also, match your resume to each position you apply for. Don’t just make one resume and send it to 20+ employers.
Show up early
It’s wise to be at your interview at least 15 minutes early in case of any unexpected traffic or delays. Punctuality reflects reliability and respect for your interviewer’s time. Being late can leave a negative impression before the conversation even begins. When you arrive early, you’ll also have time for last minute preparation or additional practice.
Send a follow up email thanking your interviewer
Many people overlook this step, but it could very well be the reason you get hired. Sending a follow-up email will help you stand out from your peers. This shows your interviewer that you’re genuinely thankful for their time and are excited for the opportunity to work at their facility.
If your interview is virtual, make sure you are in a quiet place with no distractions
If you do not have immediate access to a clean and quiet room, your local library may have spaces you can reserve. A calm and professional environment helps keep the focus on your responses and communication skills. Creating the right setting is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps you can take to ensure a smooth and successful virtual interview.
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Preparing for interviews is a vital step in growing your nursing career. By reviewing common interview questions and practicing your responses, you’ll position yourself as a confident, well-rounded candidate.
Whether you're a newly licensed nurse or a seasoned professional seeking your next opportunity, we hope this guide supports you throughout your job search and interview journey.
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