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

Preparing for a theatre nurse job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your experience, knowledge, and skills in providing quality patient care in a surgical setting. Whether you’re applying for a role in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or other surgical facility, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about your experience as a theatre nurse.
  As a theatre nurse, I have been working in the surgical setting for 5 years. I have experience in various specialties such as orthopedics, general surgery, and neurosurgery.
• 2. What motivated you to become a theatre nurse?
  I have always been interested in the medical field and enjoyed the fast-paced environment of a surgical setting. Being able to assist in life-changing surgeries and play a crucial role in patient care is what motivates me to continue working as a theatre nurse.
• 3. How do you handle stressful situations in the operating room?
  In my experience, staying calm and focused is crucial in the operating room. I prioritize communication with the surgical team and ensure that I am following all protocols and procedures. Taking deep breaths and remaining organized help me manage stress effectively.
• 4. How do you handle conflicts with colleagues or surgeons?
  I believe open communication and professionalism are key in resolving conflicts in the workplace. I would approach the individual in private, listen to their concerns, and work together to find a solution that benefits everyone involved.
• 5. How do you ensure patient safety in the operating room?
  Patient safety is my top priority in the operating room. I always double-check equipment and verify patient identity and surgical site. I also follow strict infection protocols and communicate any changes in the patient's condition to the surgical team immediately.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. How do you handle the preparation of the operating room for different types of surgeries?
  I make sure to review the surgical schedule beforehand to anticipate the specific needs of each surgery. I also follow the correct sterilization procedures and ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are readily available.
• 7. How do you handle emergencies in the operating room?
  In case of an emergency, I stay calm and follow the emergency protocols. I communicate with the surgical team and assist in any necessary interventions.
• 8. How do you handle sterile techniques to prevent infections?
  I am well-versed in sterile techniques and always follow strict protocols to prevent infections. I use sterile equipment and maintain proper attire in the operating room. I also disinfect the surgical area before and after each surgery.
• 9. How do you handle blood spills and other hazardous materials in the operating room?
  I have experience in safely handling hazardous materials and following proper disposal protocols. In case of a blood spill, I would use the correct cleaning solutions and equipment to clean and dispose of it appropriately.
• 10. Tell me about your experience in handling various surgical equipment.
  I have experience working with a wide range of surgical equipment, including laparoscopic tools, suction pumps, and electrosurgical units. I ensure that all equipment is properly sterilized and functioning before each surgery.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you tell me about a time when you faced a difficult situation in the operating room and how you handled it?
  During a surgery, the power went out unexpectedly, and the backup generator failed to kick in. I immediately kept the surgical team informed and used my critical thinking skills to quickly gather alternative lighting sources. The surgery was able to continue without any complications.
• 12. How do you handle communication with patients and their families before, during, and after surgery?
  I prioritize clear and compassionate communication with patients and their families at all stages of the surgical process. I ensure they understand the procedure and provide updates on the patient's condition during and after surgery.
• 13. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult surgeon. How did you handle the situation?
  I have experience working with different personalities in the operating room. When faced with a difficult surgeon, I make sure to remain professional and approach them in a calm and respectful manner. I also make sure to prioritize patient safety and effective teamwork.
• 14. How do you handle a mistake or error in the operating room?
  I believe in owning up to mistakes and taking immediate action to correct them. In case of an error, I would report it to the surgical team, provide any necessary interventions, and make sure to review and learn from the mistake to prevent it from happening again.
• 15. Tell me about a time when you had to adapt to a new surgical procedure or equipment.
  I had to adapt to a new laparoscopic surgery technique that was introduced in my facility. I attended training sessions and practiced with the new equipment until I was comfortable using it during surgeries.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a patient who is anxious and scared before surgery?
  I would take the time to talk to the patient and address their fears and concerns. I would also provide reassurance and explain the steps of the surgery to help ease their anxiety.
• 17. What would you do if you noticed a surgical instrument was missing during a procedure?
  I would immediately inform the surgical team and check if a back-up instrument is available. If not, I would follow the necessary protocols to retrieve the missing instrument or find a suitable alternative.
• 18. How would you handle a patient with a latex allergy in the operating room?
  I would make sure to review the surgical schedule beforehand and ensure that all necessary precautions, such as using latex-free gloves, are taken for the patient. I would also inform the surgical team and have an emergency plan in case of a reaction.
• 19. What would you do if a patient's vital signs dropped suddenly during surgery?
  I would immediately notify the surgical team and assist in any necessary interventions while following the emergency protocols. I would also provide updates to the patient's family.
• 20. How would you handle a disruptive family member in the waiting room during surgery?
  I would approach the individual in a calm and respectful manner and try to address their concerns. If necessary, I would request assistance from security or other personnel to handle the situation and ensure the patient's privacy and safety.