Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Agency Nurse Roles – 2025

Preparing for an agency nurse job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your nursing skills, experience working in different healthcare settings, and flexibility in adapting to new environments. Whether you’re applying for a role as a travel nurse, per diem nurse, or temporary nursing assistant, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Can you tell us about your nursing background and experience?
  A: I have been a registered nurse for 7 years, with experience in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and home health agencies.
• 2. How do you handle stress and maintain composure in a fast-paced environment?
  A: In such situations, I rely on my time-management skills and prioritize tasks based on urgency. I also take short breaks to recharge and practice deep breathing exercises.
• 3. How do you handle difficult or non-compliant patients?
  A: I try to understand their perspective and communicate effectively, while also involving the healthcare team in developing a solution that best meets the patient's needs.
• 4. Tell us about a time when you had a conflict with a coworker and how you resolved it.
  A: A few years ago, I had a disagreement with a coworker about a patient's treatment plan. We discussed our viewpoints, and I presented evidence-based research to support my suggestions. We were able to compromise and develop a plan that satisfied both of us.
• 5. How do you ensure patient safety and promote infection control?
  A: I follow strict hand hygiene protocols, practice proper use and disposal of personal protective equipment, and monitor and report any potential safety hazards.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• 6. What is your experience with electronic health records and patient charting?
  A: I am proficient in using various electronic health record systems and have experience in accurately documenting all aspects of patient care.
• 7. How do you stay updated on current nursing practices and procedures?
  A: I regularly attend continuing education courses and conferences, and also keep up-to-date with nursing journals and online resources.
• 8. Do you have experience with administering medications and IV therapy?
  A: Yes, I have experience in safely administering medications and IV therapy, including calculating dosages and monitoring for adverse reactions.
• 9. How do you handle emergency situations and provide life-saving interventions?
  A: I remain calm, assess the situation, and follow established emergency protocols. I am also trained in basic life support and advanced cardiac life support.
• 10. Have you worked with patients of different age groups and medical conditions?
  A: Yes, I have experience in caring for patients of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics, with a variety of medical conditions.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you tell us about a time when you went above and beyond to provide exceptional patient care?
  A: At my previous job, I volunteered to take on additional shifts during a staffing shortage and worked closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure continuity of care for my patients.
• 12. How do you handle ethical dilemmas in the workplace?
  A: I follow the nursing code of ethics and seek guidance from my supervisor and the hospital's ethics committee when faced with complex ethical situations.
• 13. Tell us about a time when you had to quickly adapt to a new healthcare environment or team.
  A: As a travel nurse, I am accustomed to adjusting to new environments and teams. I establish open communication, observe and learn from my colleagues, and offer my assistance in any way I can.
• 14. How do you handle a heavy workload and delegate tasks effectively?
  A: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and delegate appropriately to ensure efficient and timely delivery of patient care.
• 15. Can you give an example of a time when you identified a problem in the workplace and took the initiative to solve it?
  A: At my previous job, I noticed that the system for tracking and ordering medical supplies was outdated and inefficient. I proposed and implemented a new system, which reduced costs and improved inventory management.

Cultural Fit

• 16. How do you ensure diversity and inclusion in your nursing practice?
  A: I recognize and respect cultural differences, communicate effectively with patients and coworkers from diverse backgrounds, and advocate for inclusivity in the workplace.
• 17. What motivates you to work as an agency nurse?
  A: I am passionate about nursing and enjoy the variety and challenges that come with working as an agency nurse. I also appreciate the opportunity to learn and grow in different healthcare settings.
• 18. How do you handle changes in policies or procedures?
  A: I adapt quickly and am open to learning new ways of doing things. I also provide feedback and suggestions for improvement when necessary.
• 19. Can you tell us about a time when you received criticism and how you handled it?
  A: I see constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I take time to reflect on the feedback, assess its validity, and make changes if necessary.
• 20. How do you handle difficult or confrontational situations with patients or their families?
  A: I remain calm, listen to their concerns, and respond empathetically. I involve the healthcare team and utilize conflict resolution techniques to find a resolution that satisfies all parties.