Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for International Nurse - 2025

Are you ready for an international nursing job interview? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Here is a list of 20 up-to-date interview questions with simple answers that will help you showcase your knowledge and skills in the field of nursing. These questions cover all important areas of the job and will help you make a lasting impression on your interviewer.

Cultural Fit

1. Tell us about your experience working with diverse cultures and backgrounds.

A: I have always been passionate about working with diverse communities and cultures. Throughout my nursing career, I have had the opportunity to work with patients from various backgrounds, and it has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding. I have also taken cultural competency courses to enhance my skills in this area.
2. How do you ensure cultural competence in your patient care?

A: I believe in taking the time to understand my patients' cultural beliefs and values. This helps me tailor my care to meet their specific needs and preferences. I also make an effort to educate myself on the cultural practices of the patients I work with.
3. How do you handle cultural differences or misunderstandings with patients or colleagues?

A: Communication is key in such situations. I make sure to listen attentively and respectfully to my patients or colleagues' perspectives, and I try to find common ground to build understanding. I also seek guidance or support from my supervisor if necessary.
4. How do you stay updated on cultural competency and diversity in the healthcare field?

A: I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and webinars on cultural competency and diversity in healthcare. I also follow reputable sources and organizations for updates and resources in this area. Additionally, I am always open to feedback and willing to learn from my experiences.

Behavioral Questions

5. Can you tell us about a challenging patient care situation you have handled in the past?

A: Yes, I had a patient who was uncooperative and resistant to treatment due to cultural beliefs. I made an effort to understand their perspective and worked with a cultural interpreter to find a compromise that met both the patient's needs and the medical team's recommendations. Eventually, we were able to build trust and provide the necessary care for the patient.
6. How do you handle conflicts with colleagues or superiors?

A: I believe in open and honest communication, especially in times of conflict. I try to listen actively and calmly express my concerns. I also make an effort to understand the other person's perspective. If the conflict persists, I am open to involving a mediator or seeking guidance from my supervisor.
7. Tell us about a time when you had to adapt to a new work environment or team.

A: As an international nurse, I have experience working in different healthcare settings and teams. One of the most significant changes I had to adapt to was during a short-term assignment in a rural community. I was responsible for a larger caseload and had to work with limited resources. I quickly learned to be adaptable and flexible, work with the community's resources, and build a strong rapport with my team.
8. How do you prioritize and manage your workload during a busy shift?

A: I understand the importance of time management and organization, especially during a busy shift. I follow a prioritization system and make sure to delegate tasks when necessary. I also remain calm and focused and regularly check to ensure all essential tasks are completed on time.

Situational Questions

9. How would you handle a medical emergency while working in a new country with different protocols and equipment?

A: First and foremost, I would remain calm and focused. Then, I would follow the hospital's emergency protocols and seek guidance from my colleagues or supervisor if needed. If unfamiliar with any equipment, I would quickly familiarize myself with it or seek assistance from someone who knows how to use it.
10. Suppose you suspect a colleague is not following proper hygiene practices. How would you address this issue?

A: I would approach the colleague in private and express my concerns in a non-judgmental manner. I would also remind them of the importance of following proper hygiene practices in a healthcare setting and offer to work together to ensure a safe and clean environment for our patients.
11. What would you do if a patient or family member is dissatisfied with the care provided by you or your team?

A: I would listen attentively to their concerns and reassure them that we are committed to providing the best possible care. I would also involve a supervisor or mediator if necessary and follow the hospital's protocols for addressing complaints.
12. How would you handle a patient who refuses to follow the prescribed treatment plan?

A: I would first try to understand the reasons behind their refusal and address any concerns they may have. If necessary, I would also involve a cultural interpreter to help me communicate effectively. If the patient still refuses, I would seek guidance from my supervisor while ensuring their rights as a patient are respected.

Technical Questions

13. Can you explain the steps you would take when administering medication to a patient?

A: Before administering medication, I would ensure that I have the correct medication, dose, route, and time prescribed by the doctor. I would also check the patient's allergies and confirm their identity. During administration, I would follow proper infection control protocols, document the medication given, and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions.
14. How do you ensure patient safety when performing a procedure, such as wound care or IV insertion?

A: Before any procedure, I make sure to check the patient's allergies, explain the procedure and its purpose to the patient, and obtain their consent. During the procedure, I follow aseptic techniques, use proper equipment and medication, and monitor the patient's vitals and response. Afterward, I make sure to provide clear instructions for post-procedure care and document the procedure accurately.
15. Tell us about a time when you had to apply evidence-based practice in your patient care.

A: In my previous role, I noticed a high rate of medication errors in the department. I researched evidence-based strategies to prevent medication errors and presented my findings to the team. We then implemented these strategies, which resulted in a significant decrease in medication errors.
16. How do you maintain patient confidentiality and privacy?

A: Patient privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to me. I make sure to handle patient information with care, only share information on a need-to-know basis, and follow HIPAA guidelines and hospital policies at all times.

Clinical Knowledge & Expertise

17. What are the signs and symptoms of sepsis, and how would you manage a patient with sepsis?

A: Signs and symptoms of sepsis may include high fever, rapid breathing and heart rate, decreased urine output, and changes in mental status. If a patient is suspected of having sepsis, it is crucial to initiate sepsis protocol immediately, administer IV fluids, antibiotics, and oxygen, and monitor the patient's vital signs and response closely.
18. What are the most common complications of diabetes, and how would you educate a patient with diabetes on self-care?

A: Common complications of diabetes may include heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, and eye problems. When educating a patient with diabetes, I would focus on lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet, exercise, and medication adherence. I would also provide information on symptom recognition, glucose monitoring, and foot care.
19. Can you explain the difference between arterial and venous ulcers?

A: Arterial ulcers are caused by poor circulation, usually due to atherosclerotic disease or diabetes. They usually appear on toes, feet, or lower legs and have a punched out appearance and do not heal well. Venous ulcers, on the other hand, are caused by poor venous circulation, resulting in swelling and skin breakdown, typically around the ankles. They may also appear as a shallow wound that is slow to heal.
20. What is the proper technique for administering oxygen therapy?

A: The proper technique for administering oxygen therapy involves assessing the patient's oxygen saturation and prescribing oxygen therapy accordingly. The oxygen delivery device must be properly fitted, and the flow rate should be monitored and adjusted as needed. It is essential to monitor the patient's respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and skin color during oxygen therapy.