Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for LVN Roles – 2025

Are you preparing for an interview for a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) role? Look no further. Below is a list of in-demand questions and detailed answers that will help you demonstrate your clinical skills, critical thinking abilities, and compassion for patient care. Use these questions to impress your potential employer and stand out as a top candidate for the job.

General Questions

• 1. Why did you choose to become an LVN?
  As an LVN, I have always been drawn to the healthcare field and have a passion for helping others. After researching different career paths, I found that the role of an LVN aligns perfectly with my interests and goals. I am also motivated by the personal connections and relationships I can build with patients in this role.
• 2. How do you handle difficult patients or situations?
  In my previous experiences, I have found that open communication, patience, and empathy are key in managing difficult patients. I always try to understand their concerns and address them with care and understanding. If a situation escalates, I am confident in my ability to remain calm and diffuse conflicts while prioritizing patient safety.

Behavioral Questions

• 3. Can you tell us about a time you went above and beyond for a patient?
  Once, while working in a nursing home, I noticed that one of my patients was feeling depressed and withdrawn. I took the time to sit and talk with her, listening to her stories and offering her comfort and support. After our conversation, she appeared much happier and more engaged with others. I continue to check in on her and make sure she receives personalized care.
• 4. Give an example of how you handle conflicting priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  During my time working in a busy hospital, I had to prioritize tasks quickly and efficiently while still providing quality care to patients. To manage this, I developed a system of categorizing tasks based on their urgency and impact on patient safety. I also communicated with my team regularly to ensure we were all on the same page and could support each other if necessary.

Situational Questions

• 5. How would you handle a medication error?
  If I made a medication error, I would immediately inform the physician and my supervisor. I would also check on the patient and monitor for any adverse reactions. I would take responsibility for my mistake and work with my team to prevent future errors. I understand that accuracy and attention to detail are crucial in this role, and I would do everything in my power to prevent such errors from occurring.
• 6. What would you do if you suspect a colleague is not following proper safety protocols?
  I would approach my colleague privately and discuss my concerns with them. I would remind them of the importance of following safety protocols to ensure patient safety. If my concerns were not addressed, I would bring the issue to my supervisor. Patient safety is my top priority, and I will not compromise on it.

Technical Questions

• 7. Can you walk us through a typical day in your previous LVN role?
  In my previous role, I started my day by reviewing patient charts and organizing my tasks for the day. During my shifts, I performed a variety of tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, monitoring patients, assisting with procedures, and updating patient records. I also communicated with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best care for my patients.
• 8. How familiar are you with electronic medical records (EMR) systems?
  Throughout my education and work experience, I have used a variety of EMR systems and have become proficient in each one. I understand the importance of documenting patient information accurately and efficiently, and I am always open to learning and adapting to new systems.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 9. How do you handle working in a diverse team or environment?
  I value diversity and believe that it enriches the workplace. I have experience working in diverse teams and have always been able to adapt and collaborate effectively. I am open-minded, respectful, and always willing to learn from others' different perspectives and backgrounds.
• 10. How do you prioritize patient care in high-stress situations?
  Patient care is my top priority, no matter the situation or level of stress. I have learned to manage my time and prioritize tasks effectively to ensure patient safety and comfort. I also communicate with my team and delegate tasks when necessary to ensure all patients receive the care they need.

LVN-Specific Questions

• 11. Can you explain the role of an LVN in a patient's care plan?
  As an LVN, I work under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician and provide direct patient care. This includes administering medications, monitoring vital signs, assisting with procedures, and updating patient records. I also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement a comprehensive care plan for patients.
• 12. What are some common skills required for LVNs, and how do you possess them?
  LVNs must have strong communication and critical thinking skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and compassion for patients. I possess all of these skills from my education and previous work experience. I am an excellent communicator, a proactive problem-solver, and I am passionate about providing compassionate care to my patients.

Professional Development Questions

• 13. In what areas do you hope to further develop your skills as an LVN?
  I am always looking for ways to improve and grow in my role as an LVN. Currently, I am working towards obtaining my IV therapy and pharmacology certifications. I am also interested in developing my leadership skills and potentially becoming a charge nurse in the future.
• 14. How do you stay updated on best practices and industry changes?
  I regularly attend conferences and workshops related to healthcare and nursing. I also follow reputable medical journals and organizations to stay updated on industry changes and best practices. Additionally, I actively seek feedback from my colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for improvement in my practice.

LVN-Specific Technical Questions

• 15. Can you explain the proper procedure for administering medication through an IV?
  Before administering medication through an IV, I would double-check the medication and dosage with the physician's order. I would also assess the patient's IV site and ensure it is properly labeled and still intact. After verifying the six rights (right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, right time, right documentation), I would administer the medication through the IV using aseptic technique and monitor the patient for any adverse reactions.
• 16. How familiar are you with wound care and dressing changes?
  During my clinical rotations, I gained hands-on experience in wound care and dressing changes under the supervision of my clinical instructors. I am knowledgeable in the different stages of wound healing, proper wound care techniques, and identifying signs of infection. I am also experienced in aseptic technique and sterile dressing application.

Patient Care Questions

• 17. How would you handle a patient who is anxious or in pain?
  First, I would try to understand the root cause of their anxiety or pain. Then, I would provide them with reassurance and comfort, utilizing therapeutic communication techniques. If necessary, I would consult with a physician to adjust their pain medication or provide additional interventions to help alleviate their discomfort. I would also make sure they have access to any resources, such as pain management techniques or relaxation exercises, to help them cope.
• 18. Can you explain how you maintain patient confidentiality?
  Patient confidentiality is crucial in healthcare, and I take it very seriously. I strictly adhere to HIPAA guidelines and only share patient information with those directly involved in the patient's care. I also ensure that all electronic and physical records are secure and only accessed by authorized personnel.

Problem-Solving Questions

• 19. How do you handle a challenging or unexpected situation at work?
  I remain calm and assess the situation by gathering all the necessary information. Then, I brainstorm potential solutions and evaluate the risks and benefits of each option. Once I make a decision, I communicate it clearly to my team and implement it while regularly evaluating the results. If the situation is beyond my capabilities, I seek assistance from my supervisor or other healthcare professionals.
• 20. How do you handle conflicts with colleagues or patients?
  I believe open communication and empathy are key in resolving conflicts. If the conflict is with a colleague, I would approach them privately and calmly discuss the issue, actively listening to their perspective. I would also seek input from a supervisor or HR if necessary. If the conflict is with a patient, I would put their safety and care first and try to de-escalate the situation with patience and understanding. I would also seek assistance from my supervisor or security if needed.