The hiring manager will see you now. If you’re reading this blog post, then congratulations. You’re probably preparing to interview for a nursing position. Now it’s time to scrub up and prepare those all-important nursing interview questions to be in with the best chance of nailing the role.
While your demeanour and the way you carry yourself will also be important in the interview, it won’t surprise you that what you say is just as important. Luckily for you, it is possible to predict the types of nursing interview questions you may face. That gives you a chance to practise them in advance.
Here are some tips on how you can approach some of the more commonly-asked nursing interview questions. In this blog post, we will cover:
This question typically kicks off the interview. Use this opportunity to provide a concise overview of your nursing journey. Highlight your education, any specialised certifications, and your practical experience in different healthcare settings.
Emphasise relevant accomplishments and experiences that make you a strong candidate for the position. Think of this as the in-person version of your resume summary. You need to be ready to jog the memory of the interviewer as to why you are the best nurse for the job at hand.
Nurses often juggle multiple patients with varying requirements. When responding to this question, highlight your organisational skills and time management abilities. Explain your method for triage whether it’s literally assessing patient needs or setting priorities. How do you realistically ensure that no patient is overlooked?
Mention any tools or strategies you employ to stay on top of things, such as checklists or how you use electronic health records to help you.
Nursing interview questions might not ask about it specifically. However, lean on your knowledge of official frameworks that assure quality care such as the NHS’ clinical governance framework. This is your chance to show that you really know your stuff!
This question assesses your ability to handle difficult clinical scenarios. Share a real-life example where you faced a challenging patient care situation. Explain the context, your actions, and the positive outcomes. Emphasise your critical thinking skills, adaptability, and your commitment to providing the best possible care even in challenging circumstances.
Unfamiliar with the STAR method? Our guide breaking down the STAR interview technique with examples should be on your interview preparation checklist, too!
In the healthcare field, stress is a part of the job. When answering this nursing interview question, demonstrate your ability to stay composed under pressure. Talk about your strategies for managing stress, such as deep breathing techniques, seeking support from colleagues, or taking short breaks to recharge. Show that you can maintain a clear head and provide quality care even during demanding moments.
Lead by example
A job interview can be a stressful environment, much like some of the healthcare facilities you’ll be working in.
Research shows that interview anxiety is not indicative of job performance. However, you can see this as an opportunity to show the hiring manager that you know how to stay cool as a cucumber when under pressure.
Patient education is a fundamental aspect of nursing. Highlight your communication skills and your commitment to empowering patients to actively participate in their healthcare decisions.
You can show off these communication skills in the way that you address the hiring manager’s questions. Remember to slow down and use that handy STAR method. Some ideas to consider when thinking about this question include:
It goes without saying that patient safety is critical in any type of nursing. So, share your dedication to ensuring the safety of your patients. Skills and knowledge such as your attention to detail, your adherence to protocols, and your willingness to speak up if you observe a potential issue are important here.
What examples and experiences can you pull out that exemplify this? Powerful examples could include experiences where your vigilance and commitment to patient safety made a difference in patient outcomes.
This nursing interview question gauges your interest in the specific healthcare facility and your alignment with its culture and values. Research the organisation beforehand and mention specific aspects that attracted you to the position.
Remember that the way the organisation describes itself on the job description and on their website hold some important clues of their priorities and how they want to act and be perceived.
Discuss how your values and career goals align with those of the facility, demonstrating your enthusiasm for becoming a part of their team.
According to recent data reported by Nursing.co.uk, in 2023 around 12% of NHS nursing roles are unfilled. That means that you could be one successful interview away from landing your next nursing role.