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

Preparing for a nurse volunteer job interview? Look no further! This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your clinical knowledge, compassion, and dedication to helping others. Whether you’re applying for a role at a hospital, hospice center, or community organization, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your experience as a nurse and why you want to volunteer in this role.
  As a registered nurse for the past five years, I have gained valuable experience working in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. I have always been passionate about helping others and volunteering as a nurse allows me to continue doing so in my free time. I believe that using my skills and expertise to give back to my community is the most fulfilling way to contribute.
• 2. How do you handle stressful situations in a fast-paced environment?
  As a nurse, I have learned to remain calm and focused under pressure. I rely on my critical thinking skills to assess the situation and prioritize tasks accordingly. When things get busy, I communicate openly with my team and delegate tasks efficiently to ensure that all patients receive the best care. I also make sure to take care of my own well-being and take breaks when needed to avoid burnout.
• 3. How do you maintain patient confidentiality?
  Patient confidentiality is of the utmost importance in the healthcare industry. As a nurse, I understand the ethical and legal implications of the HIPAA guidelines and take them seriously. I ensure that all patient information is handled discreetly, and I only discuss patient cases with authorized individuals involved in their care. I also make sure to secure any physical or electronic records to prevent unauthorized access.
• 4. How do you handle difficult or uncooperative patients?
  In my experience as a nurse, I have encountered my fair share of difficult or uncooperative patients. In such situations, I strive to remain patient and empathetic, understanding that illness or pain can impact someone's behavior. I use my communication skills to try and understand their needs and concerns and work with them to find a solution. If necessary, I involve other members of the healthcare team to assist in finding a resolution.
• 5. How do you stay updated on current healthcare practices and technology?
  As a nurse, I understand the importance of staying current with healthcare practices and technology. I attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to expand my knowledge and skills. I also actively participate in online forums and discussions to learn from my peers and stay informed about any developments in the healthcare industry. Additionally, I make use of educational resources provided by my employer and regularly review medical journals and research articles.

Situational Questions

• 6. How would you handle a situation where a patient refuses medication or treatment?
  I would first try to understand the reason behind the refusal and address any concerns the patient may have. If the refusal is due to fear or lack of understanding, I would provide them with information and reassurance. If the refusal is due to the patient's decision, I would consult with the healthcare team and follow the proper protocols to respect the patient's autonomy.
• 7. How would you handle a situation where a patient experiences a medical emergency during your shift?
  In the event of a medical emergency, I would first assess the patient's condition and immediately call for assistance. I would then provide basic life support and continue to monitor the patient's vital signs while waiting for the emergency response team to arrive. I would also keep the patient and their family informed about the situation and offer emotional support.
• 8. How would you handle a difficult conversation with a patient or their family member about their prognosis?
  Difficult conversations about prognosis require sensitivity and empathy. I would first ensure that the patient and their family are in a comfortable and private setting. I would then use my communication skills to explain the situation in simple terms and offer support and resources to help them cope. I would also listen to their concerns and answer any questions they may have, while maintaining a compassionate and understanding demeanor.
• 9. How would you handle a situation where a patient's family member is dissatisfied with their care?
  In such situations, I would listen to the family member's concerns and address them in a respectful and professional manner. I would offer to involve them in their loved one's care and provide regular updates about their condition. If necessary, I would also consult with the patient's healthcare team to find solutions to address any issues and ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.
• 10. How would you handle a conflict with a fellow nurse or healthcare professional?
  I believe that effective communication is the key to resolving conflicts in the workplace. I would first approach the individual privately to discuss the issue and listen to their perspective. I would then express my concerns in a respectful manner and work together to find a solution that benefits both parties. If necessary, I would involve a supervisor or mediator to help facilitate the conversation and find a resolution.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 11. What experience do you have with administering medications?
  I have administered medications to patients in various forms, such as oral, intramuscular, and intravenous. I am proficient in calculating dosages and following medication administration protocols. I also have experience in monitoring for adverse reactions and reporting them to the healthcare team.
• 12. How familiar are you with electronic health records (EHRs)?
  In my previous roles, I have worked with EHR systems to document patient information, update treatment plans, and order medications and procedures. I am comfortable navigating through different EHR platforms and can adapt to new systems quickly.
• 13. How have you handled a patient's deteriorating condition?
  As a nurse, I have been trained to recognize and respond to changes in a patient's condition. I have experience in performing assessments, monitoring vital signs, and consulting with physicians to develop an appropriate care plan. I am also trained in emergency response protocols to handle critical situations.
• 14. How do you prioritize tasks when caring for multiple patients?
  Prioritizing tasks is essential when caring for multiple patients. I first assess each patient's needs and urgency, and I prioritize accordingly. I also communicate with my team to delegate tasks and ensure that all patients receive timely and appropriate care. I also make sure to re-evaluate priorities as situations change throughout the shift.
• 15. How do you handle a patient's end-of-life care?
  End-of-life care requires sensitivity and empathy. I have experience in providing comfort measures and pain management to patients in their final stages of life. I also communicate openly with patients and their families to understand their wishes and provide support and resources to help them cope.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. Why do you think volunteer work is important to the nursing profession?
  I believe that volunteer work is crucial to the nursing profession as it allows us to give back to our communities and make a positive impact on people's lives. It also provides an opportunity to learn and develop new skills, gain experience in different healthcare settings, and build connections with fellow healthcare professionals.
• 17. How do you promote diversity and inclusivity in the workplace?
  As a nurse, I understand the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. I make sure to treat all patients and colleagues with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or beliefs. I also actively participate in cultural competency training and strive to educate myself about different cultures to provide culturally sensitive care.
• 18. How do you handle ethical dilemmas in your work as a nurse?
  As a nurse, I have encountered ethical dilemmas in my practice. In such situations, I prioritize the patient's well-being and adhere to the ethical principles of beneficence, non-maleficence, and autonomy. I also consult with my healthcare team and follow the policies and procedures in place to address the ethical dilemma effectively.
• 19. How do you maintain a work-life balance as a nurse volunteer?
  Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential in any career, including nursing. As a nurse volunteer, I make sure to set boundaries and schedule my volunteer shifts around my personal commitments. I also practice self-care and make time for hobbies and activities that help me recharge and decompress after a busy shift.
• 20. How do you demonstrate compassionate care to your patients?
  Compassion is at the core of nursing, and I strive to demonstrate it in my everyday practice. I actively listen to my patients and their families, demonstrate empathy, and acknowledge their feelings and concerns. I also provide comfort measures and advocate for their needs to ensure they feel cared for and supported.