Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Nursing Roles - 2021

If you're preparing for a nursing job interview, you'll want to be well-prepared and confident in your answers. Here are 20 common nursing questions and answers that will help you showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the field of nursing.

Behavioral Questions

• 1. Tell me about a challenging situation you encountered in a previous job. How did you handle it?
  Answer: In my previous job as a nurse, I had a patient who was very anxious and uncooperative during their treatment. I remained calm, listened to their concerns, and used my communication skills to establish a rapport with them. By the end of their treatment, they had become more relaxed and trusting of me.
• 2. How do you prioritize your tasks as a nurse?
  Answer: I prioritize my tasks by using the ABC method, which is prioritizing tasks according to their importance and urgency. I also communicate with my team to ensure we are all working together to achieve our goals.
• 3. Tell me about a time when you had to advocate for a patient.
  Answer: In my previous job, I had a patient who was experiencing severe pain, but their doctor was hesitant to increase their pain medication. I collected evidence from the patient's medical records and consulted with the pain management team to advocate for a change in their medication. As a result, the patient's pain was significantly reduced.
• 4. Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult patient or family member.
  Answer: There was a time when a family member of a patient was very upset and uncooperative with the healthcare team. I took the time to listen to their concerns, address their questions and provide reassurance. By the end of their visit, the family member was calmer and more understanding of their loved one's condition.
• 5. How do you handle stressful situations in the workplace?
  Answer: As a nurse, I understand that stress is a natural part of the job. To cope with it, I practice self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones. I also make sure to communicate with my colleagues and seek support when needed.

Situational Questions

• 6. What would you do if a patient's vital signs suddenly changed?
  Answer: First, I would assess the situation and call for help. I would also immediately start necessary interventions such as administering oxygen and fluids. I would keep the patient calm and continue to monitor them until the healthcare team arrives to provide further care.
• 7. How would you handle a conflict with a coworker?
  Answer: I believe in open communication and addressing conflicts directly. I would first try to understand the other person's perspective and then express my own in a calm and respectful manner. I would be open to finding a resolution that works for both of us.
• 8. What would you do if a medication error occurred?
  Answer: If a medication error occurs, I would report it immediately, following the proper protocols. I would also inform the patient's doctor and document the error in their chart. I would then use this as a learning experience to prevent it from happening again in the future.
• 9. How do you handle a situation where a patient refuses care?
  Answer: I would first try to understand the reason for their refusal and address any concerns they may have. If the patient still refuses care, I would document the incident and inform the healthcare team. I would also continue to monitor the patient and communicate with them to try to find a solution.
• 10. How do you maintain patient confidentiality?
  Answer: I understand how important patient privacy is, and I always adhere to HIPAA guidelines. I ensure to only discuss patient information with those who are involved in their care and never share any information outside of work. I also take extra care when handling patient information to prevent any potential breaches.

Technical Questions

• 11. What are the most common medications used in a hospital setting?
  Answer: Some of the most common medications used in a hospital setting include antibiotics, pain medications, and blood thinners. It's important for nurses to have an understanding of how these medications work, their potential side effects, and any drug interactions.
• 12. How do you assess a patient's pain level?
  Answer: To assess a patient's pain level, I use a scale from 1-10 and ask them to rate their pain. I also take into consideration any nonverbal cues such as facial expressions, body language, and behavioral changes. This helps me understand the intensity of their pain and provide appropriate pain management interventions.
• 13. How do you prevent infections in the healthcare setting?
  Answer: Infection control is crucial in healthcare, and I follow strict protocols to prevent the spread of infections. This includes proper hand hygiene, wearing personal protective equipment, and following isolation precautions. I also educate patients and their families on infection prevention techniques.
• 14. How do you care for patients with chronic illnesses?
  Answer: To care for patients with chronic illnesses, I develop individualized care plans that address their specific needs. This may involve educating them on their condition and medications, scheduling regular check-ups, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. I also offer emotional support and encourage them to make lifestyle changes that can improve their health.
• 15. Can you explain the process of administering medication?
  Answer: The process of administering medication involves verifying the order, checking the medication against the order, and performing the "five rights": right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, and right time. I also monitor the patient for any adverse effects and document the administration in their chart.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. What motivated you to become a nurse?
  Answer: I have always been passionate about helping and caring for others, and I believe that nursing allows me to make a positive impact on people's lives. I am also drawn to the constantly evolving nature of the healthcare field and the challenge it presents.
• 17. How do you handle diversity and inclusion in the workplace?
  Answer: I respect and appreciate people from all walks of life, and I believe that diversity brings different perspectives and strengthens the workplace. I am always open to learning from others and treating everyone with kindness, empathy, and understanding.
• 18. How do you manage your workload and stay organized?
  Answer: To manage my workload, I prioritize tasks, delegate when necessary, and use various organization tools such as calendars and to-do lists. I also communicate with my team to ensure we are working efficiently and effectively.
• 19. How do you handle working under pressure or in a fast-paced environment?
  Answer: I thrive in fast-paced environments, and I am skilled at managing my time and working efficiently. I also remain calm under pressure and prioritize tasks to ensure that the most critical issues are addressed first.
• 20. How do you continue to develop your skills and knowledge as a nurse?
  Answer: I am committed to continuously learning and growing in my role as a nurse. I stay updated on industry advancements and take continuing education courses. I also seek out new challenges and opportunities for professional development.