Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Assistant Nurse Roles – 2021

Preparing for an assistant nurse job interview? Here are 20 interview questions and answers to help you demonstrate your skills, experience, and passion for patient care. Whether you're applying for a position in a hospital, long-term care facility, or other healthcare setting, these questions will cover all key areas of the job.

Behavioral Questions

• 1. Tell me about a time when you had to handle a difficult patient or family member.
  Answer: During a previous clinical rotation, I encountered a patient who was extremely agitated and refused to follow any of our instructions. I calmly addressed their concerns and empathized with their frustrations. By actively listening and offering solutions, I was able to de-escalate the situation and gain their trust.
• 2. Describe a time when you had to adapt to a new and challenging situation.
  Answer: While working as a nurse in a home care setting, I was assigned to care for a patient with a rare medical condition that I had no prior experience with. I proactively researched and consulted with other medical professionals to learn more about the condition and provide the best care possible for the patient.
• 3. Can you tell me about a time when you had to advocate for a patient's rights?
  Answer: During a previous job, I had a patient who was not receiving proper pain management. After speaking with the physician and advocating for alternative options, we were able to find a better solution for the patient's pain management, greatly improving their quality of life.

Situational Questions

• 4. How would you handle a situation where a patient's family member is upset and demanding to speak with a doctor while you are busy with other tasks?
  Answer: First, I would politely acknowledge their concerns and explain that I am currently tending to other patients' needs. Then, I would offer to provide them with updates on the patient's care as soon as possible or arrange a time for them to speak with the doctor.
• 5. If you suspect a patient may be experiencing abuse or neglect, what steps would you take?
  Answer: I would document any signs or symptoms and discuss the situation with my supervisor or the designated reporting authority for the facility. It is essential to follow proper protocols while ensuring the patient's safety and well-being.
• 6. What would you do if you suspect a patient is not taking their medication as prescribed?
  Answer: I would speak to the patient and inquire about their medication regimen. If they admit to not taking their medication as directed, I would work with the physician to find a better solution, such as a different medication or a reminder system.

Technical Questions

• 7. What is the most important aspect of patient care for you?
  Answer: For me, the individual needs of the patient are the most crucial aspect of care. Every patient is unique, and it is essential to provide individualized care to ensure their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
• 8. How do you maintain patient privacy and confidentiality?
  Answer: I follow HIPAA guidelines and limit discussions about patients to necessary staff members. I also access electronic patient records with a secure login and use proper disposal methods for any physical documents containing patient information.
• 9. Have you ever worked with electronic medical records before?
  Answer: Yes, in my previous job, I used an electronic medical record system to document patient care and access patient information. I am proficient in navigating these systems and following the proper documentation procedures.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 10. How do you handle stressful situations in the workplace?
  Answer: I prioritize my tasks and focus on one thing at a time. I also take breaks as needed to decompress and clear my mind. If a situation becomes overwhelming, I am not afraid to ask for help from my coworkers or supervisor.
• 11. What do you think is the most critical quality for a nurse to have?
  Answer: Compassion. I believe nursing is not just a job but also a calling to help and care for others. Compassion allows us to connect with our patients and provide the best care possible for them.
• 12. How do you stay updated on current nursing practices and advancements?
  Answer: I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and webinars to learn about the latest practices and advancements in nursing. I also stay connected with online platforms and groups to discuss and share information with other nurses.

Experience & Qualifications

• 13. What inspired you to become a nurse?
  Answer: I have always had a passion for helping others and making a positive impact on people's lives. Nursing allows me to combine this passion with my love for science and problem-solving, making it the perfect career for me.
• 14. What previous experience do you have working with patients with complex medical conditions?
  Answer: I have experience working with patients with various complex medical conditions, including diabetes, COPD, and Alzheimer's. I am also comfortable working with various medical equipment and technologies to support patient care.
• 15. Can you tell me about your experience with medication administration and dosage calculations?
  Answer: During my nursing education, I received extensive training in medication administration and dosage calculations, including metric and apothecary systems. I have also successfully passed all required medication administration courses and exams.

Teamwork & Communication Skills

• 16. How do you handle a situation where you have a disagreement with a coworker?
  Answer: I believe in open and honest communication. I would calmly discuss the situation with my coworker, listen to their perspective, and find a resolution together. If necessary, I am also open to seeking guidance from our supervisor.
• 17. Describe a time when you had to work collaboratively with a team to achieve a common goal.
  Answer: During a busy shift, we had a patient who needed emergency surgery. I had to work closely with the team, including physicians, other nurses, and support staff, to quickly prepare the patient for surgery. We worked efficiently and effectively, and the patient successfully underwent surgery and recovered well.
• 18. How do you prioritize your tasks when caring for multiple patients?
  Answer: I prioritize based on the medical needs and urgency of each patient. I also consider factors like patient preferences and availability of resources to triage tasks accordingly. I am constantly reevaluating and adjusting my priorities as patient needs change.

Personal & Professional Development

• 19. Can you tell me about a time when you had to handle a stressful and emotionally challenging patient situation?
  Answer: I had a patient who was terminally ill and nearing the end of their life. I was emotionally attached to the patient and their family, having cared for them for a long time. I recognized the importance of maintaining boundaries and taking care of myself, so I sought support from my coworkers during this difficult time.
• 20. How do you handle conflicts between your personal beliefs and those of your patients or colleagues?
  Answer: I respect and value diversity in beliefs and opinions. I make an effort to understand others' perspectives and find common ground to work together professionally. In situations where my personal beliefs may interfere with patient care, I prioritize the patient's needs and seek guidance from my supervisor.