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

Preparing for a nurse extern job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your skills, knowledge, and experience in the nursing field. Whether you’re applying for a role in a hospital, clinic, or other healthcare setting, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. What motivated you to pursue a career in nursing?
  Suggested answer: Nursing has always been a passion of mine. I find fulfillment in helping others and being there for them during their most vulnerable moments. Nursing allows me to combine my love for science and my desire to make a positive impact on people's lives.
• 2. How would you describe your ideal work environment?
  Suggested answer: My ideal work environment is one that promotes teamwork, communication, and mutual respect. I thrive in a positive and supportive culture where everyone works together to provide the best care for patients.
• 3. How do you handle difficult or challenging patients?
  Suggested answer: I understand that patients may act out due to their illness or personal struggles. I always approach difficult situations with empathy and patience. I try to understand the root cause of their behavior and use communication and problem-solving skills to find the best solution.
• 4. What do you think is the most important quality for a nurse to possess?
  Suggested answer: In my opinion, the most important quality for a nurse to possess is compassion. Being able to truly connect with patients and show genuine care and concern for their well-being is crucial in providing effective and holistic care.
• 5. How do you stay updated on current trends and advancements in the nursing field?
  Suggested answer: I regularly attend workshops, conferences, and webinars related to nursing. I also have a subscription to nursing journals and publications. I believe it's important to always stay informed and continuously improve my knowledge and skills.

Behavioral Questions

• 6. Can you tell us about a time when you had to handle a medical emergency?
  Suggested answer: During my clinical rotations, I encountered a patient who went into cardiac arrest. I immediately called for help and began performing CPR until the medical team arrived. Thankfully, the patient was resuscitated, and I was commended for my quick thinking and calm demeanor in a high-pressure situation.
• 7. How do you handle conflicts with coworkers?
  Suggested answer: In my experience, communication is the key to resolving conflicts. I believe in addressing issues directly and respectfully, and finding common ground to come to a solution that benefits everyone involved. I also believe in seeking guidance from a supervisor if necessary.
• 8. Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult patient or family member.
  Suggested answer: I had a patient who was constantly verbally abusive towards me and my colleagues. Instead of reacting emotionally, I remained calm and tried to understand their perspective. I communicated with them effectively, set clear boundaries, and involved their family in the care plan. Eventually, we were able to build a positive relationship and the patient's behavior improved.
• 9. Share an experience where you made a mistake. How did you handle it?
  Suggested answer: During my first week on the job, I gave a patient the wrong medication. It was a simple human error, but it taught me the importance of double-checking everything and following protocols. I immediately informed my supervisor and the patient's physician, and we were able to mitigate any potential harm. I learned from my mistake and have been more diligent in my work since then.
• 10. Can you tell us about a time when you had to provide emotional support for a patient or their family?
  Suggested answer: I had a patient who was struggling with a terminal illness and her family was finding it difficult to cope. I dedicated extra time and effort to sit with the patient and her family, listening to their concerns and offering words of comfort. I also connected them with support groups and resources to help them through this difficult time. It was a rewarding experience to see the patient and her family find some peace and closure.

Situational Questions

• 11. How would you handle a patient who refuses to take their medication?
  Suggested answer: I would first try to understand the reason behind the refusal. If the patient is experiencing discomfort or side effects, I would involve the physician to change the medication if necessary. I would also educate the patient on the importance of following their treatment plan and address any concerns they may have. Ultimately, it's important to respect the patient's autonomy while ensuring their health and safety.
• 12. If you noticed a coworker making a medication error, what would you do?
  Suggested answer: I would discreetly approach the coworker and discuss the situation with them. Then, I would involve the supervisor and follow the facility's protocol for reporting errors. Patient safety is our top priority, and it's important to address and correct any errors immediately.
• 13. How would you handle a patient with a language barrier?
  Suggested answer: First, I would try to find a certified interpreter if available. If not, I would use visual aids, simple language, and nonverbal cues to communicate with the patient. I would also involve the patient's family or friends to help with translation. I understand the importance of clear communication in providing quality care, and I am always willing to find creative solutions to overcome language barriers.
• 14. What would you do if a patient confides in you about their dissatisfaction with the quality of care they are receiving?
  Suggested answer: I would listen to the patient's concerns and validate their feelings. Then, I would discuss the issue with the healthcare team and try to identify any areas for improvement. If necessary, I would escalate the situation to a supervisor while ensuring the patient feels heard and supported.
• 15. In a high-stress situation, how do you prioritize tasks and make quick decisions?
  Suggested answer: When faced with a high-stress situation, I rely on my critical thinking and time-management skills. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and I communicate with my team to delegate tasks when possible. I also follow established protocols and use my experience to make informed and timely decisions.

Technical Questions

• 16. What measures would you take to prevent the spread of infection in a patient's room?
  Suggested answer: I would follow the facility's infection control guidelines, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper hand hygiene. I would also ensure the patient's room is properly disinfected and sanitized, and follow isolation protocols if necessary.
• 17. Describe your experience with medication administration and documentation.
  Suggested answer: I am familiar with different routes of medication administration and have experience with IV, oral, and subcutaneous medications. I document all medications administered accurately and promptly, following the facility's protocols.
• 18. How do you recognize and handle adverse reactions to medication?
  Suggested answer: I am trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of adverse reactions to medication, such as allergic reactions or side effects. If I suspect a patient is experiencing an adverse reaction, I would immediately stop the medication, assess the patient's condition, and notify the physician. I would also document the incident accurately.
• 19. How do you ensure patient comfort and safety during a physical assessment or procedure?
  Suggested answer: I always explain the procedure or assessment to the patient beforehand, ensuring they understand what to expect. I also address any concerns they may have and provide emotional support as needed. During the procedure, I am mindful of the patient's comfort and always ensure their safety and privacy.
• 20. What experience do you have with electronic medical records (EMR) systems?
  Suggested answer: My previous workplace used an electronic medical records system, so I am familiar with its features and functions. I am proficient in using computers and have excellent typing and data entry skills, which helps me navigate and document in the EMR quickly and accurately.