Job interviews are exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time. As with any interview, it’s best to prepare for any and every question that you think will come your way. Sure, there are the standard questions like “Tell me about yourself.” or “How do you stand out amongst other candidates?” that you can expect. However, when it comes to nursing, it’s important to consider a more specific set of questions. Take a look at 15 that we think all nursing students should be prepared for.
- How do you deal with difficult patients?
- Tell me about yourself.
- What are your weaknesses and strengths?
- Why do you want to work in this particular unit?
- Tell me about a time that you had to solve a difficult problem.
How To Get A Student Nurse Externship in Nursing School | Real Interview Questions
4. What do you contribute to your patients as a nurse?
What They Want to Know: This is an opportunity to share your personal theory of how you help patients. You can focus on the medical or the interpersonal, depending on what type of role you are seeking.
I feel that my patients know that I am there to provide comfort and understanding, that I will listen to their concerns, and that I will act as their advocate if necessary.
1. What interested you in pursuing a career in nursing?
When you’re asked this question during an interview, you’ll have an opportunity to express your dedication to nursing. Every prospective nurse will have their own reasons for entering the medical field as a nurse—try to make your answer personal. You may want to add specific situations or people that inspired you to pursue a nursing career.
Example: “I decided to pursue a career in nursing because my aunt was a nurse. She was smart, caring and always willing to help and she taught me the basics of caring for the sick and infirm. I developed a passion for it and I would like to bring that passion and high level of care to patients to this healthcare institution.”
6. How would you deal with a rude doctor?
Nurses will likely have to deal with a variety of people who have different moods and temperaments. The medical field can be stressful and a doctor may come off as rude. It is important to demonstrate your conflict resolution skills and respond to this question thoughtfully.
Example: “I would deal with a rude doctor by first asking them if there is something I did wrong to frustrate them. If there was something I did wrong, then I would ask specifics about what I could do better next time.”
Questions About Dealing with Family Members
Taking care of a patient often means a lot of time spent with the patients family, so that’s often a focus during the interview. Here are more questions interviewers might have about how you handle those interactions.
