Tell me about yourself
A common opening question in nursing interviews, this is your chance to give a brief overview of your background, education and professional experience. Focus on your nursing skills, your education, and any relevant work experiences. For instance, you might say, "I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from XYZ University, and I have been working in a hospital setting for the past three years. I specialize in pediatric care and am passionate about providing high-quality patient care." Why did you choose nursing as a career?
This question delves into your motivations and passion for nursing. Be honest and genuine in your response. You might explain, "I chose nursing because I wanted to have a positive impact on people’s lives. I am passionate about healthcare and believe that being a nurse allows me to provide both medical and emotional support to patients."
How do you handle stress on the job?
Nursing can be stressful, and employers want to know that you can manage stress effectively. Share specific strategies you use to handle stress, such as, "I manage stress by staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and taking short breaks when needed. I also practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises to stay calm in high-pressure situations."
How do you deal with difficult patients?
Dealing with difficult patients is part of the job. Explain your approach, such as, "I remain calm and try to understand their concerns. I listen actively and show empathy, which often helps to de-escalate the situation. I also ensure to maintain professional boundaries and seek support from colleagues if needed."
Describe a time you had to advocate for a patient
Advocacy is a crucial part of nursing. Provide a specific example, like, "There was a time when a patient was not receiving adequate pain management. I communicated with the medical team, provided evidence-based literature, and advocated for a change in the patient's pain management plan. As a result, the patient’s pain was better controlled, and their overall condition improved." How do you stay current with healthcare practices?
Continuous learning is vital in healthcare. You might say, "I stay current by attending workshops, completing online courses, reading medical journals, and being a member of professional organizations. I also regularly participate in training sessions at work."
How do you prioritize your tasks during a shift?
Time management is critical in nursing. Explain your process, such as, "I start by reviewing my patient assignments and identifying the most urgent needs. I use a checklist to stay organized and adjust my priorities as needed throughout the shift. Effective communication with my team also helps to ensure that all tasks are managed efficiently."
What would you do if you witnessed a colleague making a mistake?
Ethical integrity is crucial. You could respond, "If I witnessed a colleague making a mistake, I would address it immediately by ensuring the patient's safety first. I would then discuss the issue with the colleague in a professional manner and report it to my supervisor if necessary, following the appropriate protocols."
Why do you want to work at this hospital/clinic?
Show that you have researched the facility. You might say, "I am impressed by this hospital’s commitment to patient-centered care and its innovative approaches to treatment. I am particularly drawn to your focus on continuous professional development and believe that my skills and values align well with your mission."
What are your career goals in nursing?
Share your aspirations while aligning them with the job you are applying for. For example, "My goal is to become a specialized nurse practitioner in oncology. I believe that working at your facility, with its strong oncology department, will provide me with the experience and opportunities to advance in this field."
