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

Preparing for a surgery nurse job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your clinical expertise, decision-making abilities, and experience in the surgical field. These questions cover all key areas of the role, from technical skills to cultural fit.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your experience working as a surgery nurse.
  A: I have been working as a surgery nurse for the past 5 years at ABC Hospital. During this time, I have gained experience in a variety of surgical procedures, including orthopedic, neurological, and cardiovascular surgeries. I have also worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing me to develop strong multitasking and organizational skills.
• 2. Why did you choose to become a surgery nurse?
  A: I have always been interested in the medical field and helping others. After completing my nursing degree, I did a rotation in the surgical department and immediately fell in love with the fast-paced environment and the opportunity to make a significant impact in a patient's life during a critical time.
• 3. How do you handle a challenging or stressful situation in the operating room?
  A: In a high-pressure environment like the operating room, it's important to stay calm and focused. I prioritize communication and teamwork, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working efficiently. I also utilize my critical thinking and problem-solving skills to find solutions to any unexpected challenges that may arise.
• 4. How do you maintain patient confidentiality in the surgical setting?
  A: Patient confidentiality is of the utmost importance in healthcare. I strictly adhere to HIPAA regulations and guidelines, making sure to only discuss patient information with authorized individuals and in a private setting. I also maintain confidentiality by properly documenting and securing patient records.
• 5. What do you know about the latest advancements in surgical technology?
  A: As a surgery nurse, it's important to stay updated on the latest advancements in surgical technology. I am familiar with the use of robotic and minimally invasive surgeries, which have improved patient outcomes and reduced recovery time. I am also knowledgeable about the use of 3D imaging and virtual reality technology in the operating room.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What experience do you have in administering anesthesia?
  A: In my current role, I work closely with anesthesiologists to prepare patients for surgery and monitor their vital signs during the procedure. I am trained in administering and monitoring different types of anesthesia, including general, local, and regional anesthesia, and I am constantly learning new techniques and protocols.
• 7. How do you ensure proper sterilization of surgical equipment?
  A: I follow strict protocols and guidelines for sterilization, including the use of autoclaves, chemical disinfectants, and disposable equipment. I also regularly attend training and seminars on infection control to stay updated on best practices.
• 8. Are you familiar with different surgical instruments and their uses?
  A: Yes, I am familiar with a wide range of surgical instruments and their uses, including scalpels, forceps, retractors, and suturing instruments. I ensure proper usage and handling of these instruments to maintain a safe and efficient surgical environment.
• 9. How do you handle a patient who experiences complications during surgery?
  A: In case of complications, I first ensure the patient's safety and alert the surgical team. I follow emergency protocols to address the issue while keeping the patient and their family informed. I also document the incident thoroughly for post-operative review.
• 10. Do you have experience in coordinating with other healthcare professionals during surgeries?
  A: Yes, I understand the importance of effective communication and teamwork in the operating room. In my current role, I collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other surgical team members to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Tell us about a challenging surgery you assisted in and how you handled it.
  A: In a recent cardiac surgery, the patient experienced an unexpected heart rhythm disturbance during the procedure. I immediately alerted the surgeon and anesthesiologist and helped stabilize the patient's condition. My quick thinking and calm demeanor helped the team successfully complete the surgery.
• 12. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with colleagues in the operating room?
  A: In a high-stress environment like the operating room, disagreements can arise. However, I handle conflicts calmly and professionally, prioritizing the patient's well-being. I actively listen to my colleagues' perspectives and work towards finding a solution that benefits the patient and the team.
• 13. Can you give an example of a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a problem in the operating room?
  A: During a complex abdominal surgery, the surgeon encountered an unexpected anatomy issue. They turned to me for assistance, and I used my critical thinking skills to come up with a creative solution. By working with the surgeon and utilizing different surgical instruments, we were able to successfully complete the procedure.
• 14. How do you handle a difficult patient or family member before surgery?
  A: In my experience, educating patients and their families about the surgical process and comforting them can help alleviate their anxiety. I take the time to explain the procedure and answer any questions they may have. If a patient is still agitated, I remain calm and empathetic while following the direction of the surgeon and anesthesiologist.
• 15. How do you prioritize and manage your tasks during a busy day in the operating room?
  A: In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize my tasks based on their urgency and importance. I also delegate tasks when necessary to ensure everything runs smoothly. I stay organized by following a checklist and utilizing technology to manage patient records and track progress.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a surgeon who is being unprofessional in the operating room?
  A: In this situation, I would maintain my professionalism and redirect the conversation to the patient's well-being and the task at hand. If the behavior continues, I would report it to the appropriate personnel or utilize the chain of command to address the issue privately.
• 17. If you found an error in a patient's medical record before surgery, what would you do?
  A: Patient safety is my top priority, so I would inform the surgeon and anesthesiologist of the error and work with them to correct it. I would also ensure that the patient is fully informed and that the error is properly documented for future reference.
• 18. What would you do if a patient refused to follow pre-operative instructions?
  A: I would listen to the patient's concerns and try to address them. If necessary, I would involve the surgeon or other healthcare professionals to explain the importance of following the instructions for their safety. I would also document the interaction and any changes to the pre-operative plan.
• 19. If a surgery has complications and you were not involved in the procedure, how would you handle the post-operative care of the patient?
  A: As a surgery nurse, I am trained to handle post-operative complications. I would follow the established post-operative protocols and work closely with the surgeon and other healthcare professionals to address the issue. I would also provide detailed updates to the patient's family and document all actions taken.
• 20. How would you ensure a smooth transition for a patient from the operating room to the recovery room?
  A: Communication and teamwork are key in ensuring a smooth transition for a patient. I would coordinate with the recovery room nurses to provide them with all necessary information about the patient's procedure, medication, and potential complications. I would also make sure that the patient is comfortable and properly monitored before transferring them to the recovery room.