50 Registered Nurse Interview Questions & Answers

Preparing for a Registered Nurse (RN) interview can feel overwhelming, especially with so many potential questions about your skills, experience, and patient care philosophy. Whether you’re a new graduate nurse or an experienced RN seeking a new opportunity, being well-prepared can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ve compiled 50 of the most common Registered Nurse interview questions with detailed sample answers to help you feel confident and ready. Each response provides both insight into what interviewers are looking for and real-world examples to help you craft your own answers.

Tips to Answer Registered Nurse Interview Questions

1. Highlight Your Compassion and Patient Care Philosophy:
Nursing is as much about empathy as it is about medical knowledge. Emphasize your dedication to providing holistic, patient-centered care. Mention how you build trust with patients and families, especially during stressful times.

2. Show Strong Communication and Teamwork Skills:
Nurses collaborate constantly with doctors, other nurses, and healthcare staff. Provide examples of how you’ve effectively communicated in emergencies, contributed to team goals, or resolved conflicts in a professional way.

3. Demonstrate Critical Thinking Under Pressure:
Employers want nurses who can think fast and make sound decisions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe specific situations where you assessed a patient and took quick, appropriate action.

4. Emphasize Continuous Learning:
Medicine evolves rapidly, and so should your skills. Talk about how you stay current through continuing education, certifications, or attending professional workshops.

5. Be Honest About Challenges:
Don’t shy away from discussing difficult situations you’ve faced. What matters most is how you handled them, what you learned, and how you’ve grown as a nurse.

6. Focus on Patient Safety and Ethics:
Every answer should reflect your commitment to maintaining patient safety, following protocols, and upholding ethical standards in every situation.

Registered Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

1. Tell Me About Yourself.
How to Answer: Focus on your background, education, and nursing experience. Highlight what drives you to provide excellent patient care.
Sample Answer: I’m a compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse with over five years of experience in acute care and medical-surgical units. I earned my BSN from the University of Michigan and have always been drawn to helping others, especially during vulnerable times. Over the years, I’ve developed strong assessment skills, a calm approach under pressure, and a deep commitment to patient advocacy. I take pride in my ability to comfort patients and communicate effectively with families and healthcare teams to ensure the best outcomes.

2. Why Did You Choose Nursing as a Career?
How to Answer: Share your motivation and personal story behind choosing nursing.
Sample Answer: I chose nursing because I’ve always felt a deep desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. When my grandmother was hospitalized, I was inspired by the compassion and professionalism of the nurses who cared for her. That experience showed me how impactful nursing can be, both emotionally and medically. Now, I strive to provide that same level of care, ensuring every patient feels heard, respected, and cared for. Nursing gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment every single day.

3. What Do You Find Most Rewarding About Being a Nurse?
How to Answer: Emphasize meaningful aspects of the job and how they align with your values.
Sample Answer: The most rewarding part of nursing for me is seeing the positive impact my care has on patients’ recovery and well-being. Whether it’s helping someone manage chronic pain or comforting a family during a difficult diagnosis, I find meaning in being there for people when they need it most. The gratitude and trust from patients remind me why I entered this profession. It’s truly rewarding to know that my knowledge and empathy can make such a difference.

4. Describe a Time You Had to Handle a Difficult Patient.
How to Answer: Use a calm, professional tone. Focus on empathy and de-escalation techniques.
Sample Answer: I once cared for a patient who was frustrated due to long wait times and became verbally aggressive. Instead of reacting defensively, I listened to his concerns and validated his feelings. I calmly explained the situation, apologized for the delay, and assured him we were doing our best. Within minutes, his tone softened, and we were able to continue care smoothly. This experience reinforced the importance of active listening, empathy, and maintaining professionalism even in challenging situations.

5. How Do You Prioritize Tasks During a Busy Shift?
How to Answer: Show your ability to stay organized and focused under pressure.
Sample Answer: During busy shifts, I start by quickly assessing each patient’s condition and identifying who needs immediate attention. I prioritize tasks using the ABCs—Airway, Breathing, and Circulation to address life-threatening issues first. I also make use of a written task list to stay on track and communicate with my team about any changes in priorities. Flexibility and clear communication are key, as patient needs can shift rapidly. This approach helps me ensure that every patient receives timely and appropriate care.

6. How Do You Handle Stress in a Fast-Paced Environment?
How to Answer: Demonstrate resilience and self-care strategies.
Sample Answer: Nursing can be demanding, but I’ve learned to manage stress by staying organized and focusing on one task at a time. During particularly hectic moments, I take deep breaths to stay centered and remind myself of my training. I also rely on teamwork—communicating openly with colleagues helps distribute workload and maintain patient safety. Outside of work, I prioritize exercise and mindfulness, which help me stay emotionally balanced and prepared for high-pressure situations.

7. Describe a Time You Made a Mistake and How You Handled It.
How to Answer: Be honest, take responsibility, and show what you learned.
Sample Answer: Early in my career, I once documented a medication dose incorrectly. I realized it immediately, reported it to my supervisor, and followed the facility’s incident protocol. Thankfully, the patient was not affected. This incident reinforced the importance of double-checking documentation and slowing down, even when busy. Since then, I’ve implemented personal safety checks and peer reviews to minimize errors. I view mistakes as learning opportunities that make me a more careful and accountable nurse.

8. How Do You Ensure Patient Safety?
How to Answer: Reference best practices and safety protocols.
Sample Answer: Patient safety is my top priority. I follow all hospital protocols, perform accurate medication checks using the five rights, and ensure clear handoff communication. I also conduct frequent patient assessments to identify any changes in condition early. Additionally, I educate patients on safety measures, such as fall prevention and medication adherence. My proactive approach, combined with vigilance and teamwork, helps minimize risks and ensures that every patient receives the safest possible care.

9. How Do You Handle Conflicts With Colleagues or Physicians?
How to Answer: Show maturity and professionalism.
Sample Answer: I believe open communication is the key to resolving conflicts. When disagreements arise, I approach the person privately and calmly to discuss our perspectives. I focus on understanding their viewpoint and finding a solution that benefits patient care. For example, I once disagreed with a physician about a treatment plan, so I presented evidence-based research respectfully, and we found a compromise. Maintaining professionalism and focusing on the shared goal of patient safety always helps defuse tension.

10. What Steps Do You Take to Prevent Burnout?
How to Answer: Highlight self-awareness and self-care strategies.
Sample Answer: Burnout is real in nursing, so I prioritize maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life. I practice mindfulness and take short breaks during long shifts to recharge. Outside of work, I spend time with family and enjoy outdoor activities, which help me unwind. Professionally, I remind myself of the impact my work has on others and celebrate small successes. Recognizing early signs of fatigue and seeking support from colleagues or mentors has also been key to staying motivated.

 

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11. How Do You Stay Up to Date With Medical Knowledge and Best Practices?
How to Answer: Show your commitment to professional development.
Sample Answer: I stay current by attending continuing education workshops, reading nursing journals, and completing online courses. I also participate in hospital in-service training and professional organizations like the American Nurses Association. These opportunities allow me to stay updated on new treatments, technologies, and patient care protocols. Additionally, I enjoy discussing new research with colleagues to apply evidence-based practices in my work. Staying informed not only improves patient outcomes but also keeps me engaged and growing as a healthcare professional.

12. Describe a Time You Worked as Part of a Team to Provide Excellent Care.
How to Answer: Emphasize collaboration and communication.
Sample Answer: In my previous role, I worked with a multidisciplinary team to manage a patient with complex cardiac issues. I coordinated closely with the cardiologist, physical therapist, and dietitian to ensure we were aligned on treatment goals. My role included monitoring vitals, educating the patient on medication, and communicating updates during rounds. Our teamwork resulted in the patient’s condition improving faster than expected. This experience reinforced my belief that collaboration and clear communication are vital for delivering holistic and effective care.

13. How Do You Handle a Situation When You Disagree With a Doctor’s Orders?
How to Answer: Highlight professionalism and adherence to protocol.
Sample Answer: If I ever question a doctor’s order, I approach it respectfully and professionally. I review the patient’s chart, gather evidence, and then discuss my concerns directly with the physician. For instance, I once noticed a medication dose that seemed unusually high. I double-checked the order and calmly discussed it with the doctor, who realized it was a transcription error. The correction prevented a potential adverse event. This experience taught me that speaking up respectfully is part of advocating for patient safety.

14. What Would You Do if a Patient Refused Treatment?
How to Answer: Show empathy, respect for autonomy, and communication skills.
Sample Answer: I would first seek to understand why the patient is refusing treatment. Often, fear or misunderstanding is the root cause. I would take the time to explain the benefits and risks, answer their questions, and ensure they feel heard. If they still refuse, I would respect their decision, document the conversation, and notify the physician. My goal is always to empower patients with knowledge so they can make informed choices about their care while maintaining trust and respect.

15. How Do You Handle a Sudden Medical Emergency?
How to Answer: Show composure and quick thinking.
Sample Answer: In an emergency, my first step is to stay calm and act according to protocol. I assess the situation, call for assistance, and begin life-saving interventions if necessary. For example, when a patient went into cardiac arrest, I immediately initiated CPR, called for a code, and ensured defibrillation was ready. Clear communication and teamwork allowed us to stabilize the patient quickly. Remaining focused and composed under pressure is crucial, and I take pride in my ability to respond effectively during crises.

16. Describe Your Experience With Electronic Health Records (EHR).
How to Answer: Demonstrate familiarity and efficiency.
Sample Answer: I have extensive experience using EHR systems like Epic and Cerner for charting, medication administration, and tracking patient progress. Accuracy and timeliness are essential, so I make sure to document assessments and updates promptly. I also use EHRs to communicate with physicians and schedule tests efficiently. In one role, I helped train new nurses on EHR documentation, emphasizing accuracy and compliance. Leveraging EHR systems properly enhances patient safety and improves coordination across the healthcare team.

17. How Do You Educate Patients About Their Medications or Treatment Plans?
How to Answer: Show clarity and compassion in patient education.
Sample Answer: I tailor education to each patient’s level of understanding. I use simple, non-technical language, provide written materials, and encourage questions. For example, when teaching a diabetic patient about insulin administration, I demonstrated the injection technique, had them repeat it, and provided follow-up reminders. I also ensure they know potential side effects and when to seek help. Patient education builds confidence and adherence, which directly improves health outcomes and reduces hospital readmissions.

18. How Do You Respond When a Family Member Questions Your Care?
How to Answer: Demonstrate patience and professionalism.
Sample Answer: I understand that family members are often anxious and want the best for their loved ones. When a family member questions my care, I listen attentively, acknowledge their concerns, and provide clear, factual explanations. Once, a patient’s daughter questioned a medication dosage, so I calmly explained the prescription and consulted with the physician in her presence for reassurance. She appreciated the transparency. Clear communication helps build trust and ensures that everyone feels confident in the care being provided.

19. What Are Your Strengths as a Nurse?
How to Answer: Mention skills that align with nursing values.
Sample Answer: My key strengths include empathy, attention to detail, and strong communication. I connect easily with patients, helping them feel comfortable and respected. My attention to detail ensures accurate assessments and documentation, which supports patient safety. Additionally, I’m an effective communicator who collaborates well with interdisciplinary teams. These strengths have consistently helped me deliver compassionate, high-quality care and maintain positive relationships with both patients and colleagues.

20. What Are Your Weaknesses, and How Are You Improving Them?
How to Answer: Be honest but focus on growth.
Sample Answer: Early in my career, I found it challenging to delegate tasks because I wanted to ensure everything was done perfectly. Over time, I realized that effective delegation is essential for teamwork and patient safety. I’ve worked on improving by communicating clearly, assigning tasks based on team members’ strengths, and following up respectfully. This has helped me build trust and efficiency within my team. I now view delegation as a leadership skill that supports better outcomes for everyone.

21. How Do You Handle End-of-Life Care Situations?
How to Answer: Show empathy and emotional resilience.
Sample Answer: End-of-life care requires compassion, sensitivity, and respect. I focus on providing comfort, managing symptoms, and supporting both the patient and their family. In one case, I cared for a terminally ill cancer patient and ensured her pain was well-managed while offering emotional support to her family. I also facilitated conversations with the care team about hospice services. Although it’s emotionally difficult, I find fulfillment in providing dignity, comfort, and peace during a patient’s final moments.

22. How Do You Ensure Confidentiality and Protect Patient Privacy?
How to Answer: Reference HIPAA compliance and discretion.
Sample Answer: Protecting patient privacy is fundamental to my practice. I follow HIPAA guidelines at all times, ensuring that patient information is only shared with authorized personnel. I avoid discussing cases in public areas and secure all electronic records. When family members request information, I verify authorization before sharing. Maintaining confidentiality builds trust and ensures compliance with legal and ethical standards, which are cornerstones of quality nursing care.

23. How Do You Motivate Yourself During Long or Difficult Shifts?
How to Answer: Show resilience and a positive attitude.
Sample Answer: During long shifts, I focus on the impact my work has on patients. Remembering that my efforts directly contribute to someone’s healing keeps me motivated. I also take short breaks to recharge and stay hydrated. Encouragement from colleagues and a positive work environment help too. I find that maintaining perspective—knowing that challenges are temporary but care is lasting—keeps my energy and compassion consistent throughout even the toughest shifts.

24. How Do You Handle Situations Where You Have Multiple High-Priority Patients?
How to Answer: Explain your time management and triage skills.
Sample Answer: When managing multiple high-priority patients, I quickly assess who requires immediate attention using triage principles. I delegate tasks appropriately, communicate with my team, and keep the charge nurse informed of any changes. For instance, during one shift, I cared for a patient with respiratory distress while another required post-op monitoring. I stabilized the critical patient first, then ensured others received support through my colleagues. Clear communication and prioritization helped maintain safe, efficient care for all patients.

25. How Do You Approach Cultural Sensitivity in Patient Care?
How to Answer: Emphasize respect and adaptability.
Sample Answer: I believe cultural competence is essential in nursing. I always take the time to learn about a patient’s cultural beliefs, dietary restrictions, or preferences that might impact their care. For example, I once cared for a patient whose religion restricted certain medical procedures, so I coordinated with the care team to find suitable alternatives. I also use interpreters when needed to ensure clear communication. By respecting each patient’s cultural values, I create a more trusting and inclusive environment that promotes better health outcomes.

26. Describe a Time You Had to Advocate for a Patient.
How to Answer: Focus on ethical practice and courage.
Sample Answer: Advocacy is one of the most important roles of a nurse. I once cared for an elderly patient who was uncomfortable with an invasive procedure recommended by a physician. After listening to her concerns, I communicated them to the doctor and arranged a care conference with her family. Ultimately, the treatment plan was adjusted to align with her wishes. This experience taught me that standing up for a patient’s rights—while maintaining professionalism—ensures ethical, patient-centered care.

27. How Do You Handle Working With Difficult Team Members?
How to Answer: Show diplomacy and problem-solving.
Sample Answer: Working with diverse personalities is part of nursing. When faced with a difficult team member, I focus on maintaining respect and communication. Once, I worked with a colleague who often resisted collaboration. I invited them to discuss our workflow challenges and suggested small adjustments. Over time, our communication improved, and teamwork strengthened. I’ve learned that addressing conflict directly, rather than avoiding it, fosters a more supportive and productive work environment.

28. How Do You Manage Documentation and Accuracy?
How to Answer: Highlight precision and accountability.
Sample Answer: Accurate documentation is critical for patient safety and legal protection. I make it a habit to chart immediately after performing procedures or assessments to prevent errors. I use clear, objective language and double-check entries before finalizing. In my previous role, I helped implement a documentation checklist that reduced charting errors by 20%. Keeping detailed and timely records ensures seamless communication among care teams and supports the highest standards of nursing practice.

29. What Do You Do if You’re Short-Staffed on Your Shift?
How to Answer: Show adaptability and teamwork.
Sample Answer: When short-staffed, I stay calm and communicate with the charge nurse to prioritize patient needs. I also collaborate closely with the team to redistribute tasks efficiently. During one night shift, our unit was down two nurses, so I volunteered to cover additional patients while ensuring critical ones received priority care. We supported each other by checking on one another’s patients as needed. Teamwork, clear communication, and focus on patient safety always help overcome staffing challenges.

30. Describe How You Handle Pain Management for Patients.
How to Answer: Demonstrate empathy and evidence-based care.
Sample Answer: Pain management begins with thorough assessment and understanding each patient’s pain level and history. I use standardized pain scales and tailor interventions based on individual needs, whether through medication, repositioning, or relaxation techniques. I also educate patients about managing pain and monitor their response to treatment. For instance, I once helped a post-surgical patient by combining medication with guided breathing exercises, which improved comfort and reduced anxiety. Effective pain management requires both compassion and clinical precision.

31. What Qualities Make a Great Nurse?
How to Answer: Focus on key professional and interpersonal traits.
Sample Answer: A great nurse embodies empathy, attention to detail, communication, and resilience. Empathy allows us to connect with patients on a personal level, while strong communication ensures teamwork and accurate care. Attention to detail prevents mistakes and improves safety. Resilience helps nurses stay composed in stressful situations. I strive to demonstrate these qualities daily by treating patients with compassion, maintaining accuracy in my work, and supporting my team with a positive attitude.

32. How Do You Handle a Patient in Severe Pain Who Cannot Communicate?
How to Answer: Show assessment skills and sensitivity.
Sample Answer: In cases where patients cannot verbalize pain, I rely on non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, vital signs, and body language. I use standardized pain assessment tools like the FLACC scale. I also consult with family members to understand the patient’s baseline behavior. Once, I cared for a stroke patient who was nonverbal but exhibited restlessness and increased heart rate. After assessing, I administered pain medication per protocol, and the patient visibly relaxed. Vigilant observation is key to ensuring comfort and safety.

33. How Do You Maintain Professional Boundaries With Patients?
How to Answer: Emphasize ethics and professionalism.
Sample Answer: Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial for building trust and ensuring ethical care. I keep interactions friendly but professional, focusing on the patient’s needs rather than personal matters. For example, if a patient attempts to share personal contact information, I kindly explain that communication should stay within professional channels. I also maintain objectivity and avoid favoritism. Respecting boundaries preserves both the patient’s dignity and the integrity of the nurse-patient relationship.

34. Describe a Time You Helped Improve a Process or Policy on Your Unit.
How to Answer: Demonstrate initiative and problem-solving.
Sample Answer: On my previous unit, I noticed delays in medication administration due to inefficient workflow. I proposed creating a shared checklist for nurses to track pending tasks and medication schedules. After implementing it, we reduced delays by 30% and improved handoff communication. Management appreciated the initiative, and the checklist became a unit standard. I enjoy finding practical ways to enhance efficiency and patient care through collaboration and creative problem-solving.

35. How Do You Handle Family Members Who Are Overly Demanding?
How to Answer: Show patience and empathy.
Sample Answer: I understand that demanding family members are often anxious or fearful. I remain calm, listen actively, and address their concerns respectfully. Once, a family member repeatedly requested updates despite frequent communication. I scheduled a specific time each shift to provide detailed updates, which reduced their anxiety. Consistency and transparency often ease tensions. By balancing empathy with boundaries, I can maintain trust and keep the focus on providing excellent patient care.

36. How Would You Care for a Patient Who Is Depressed or Anxious?
How to Answer: Highlight emotional intelligence and holistic care.
Sample Answer: I approach patients struggling with depression or anxiety with empathy and patience. I take time to listen, validate their feelings, and ensure they feel supported. For instance, I once cared for a patient recovering from surgery who showed signs of depression. I collaborated with the mental health team, encouraged open communication, and involved the family in recovery. By addressing emotional as well as physical needs, I helped the patient regain motivation and adhere to the care plan.

37. How Do You Ensure Effective Handoffs During Shift Changes?
How to Answer: Show organization and communication.
Sample Answer: Effective handoffs are critical for patient safety. I follow the SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) format to ensure all essential details are shared. I also verify medications, pending labs, and any changes in condition before signing off. I make sure the incoming nurse has time to ask questions. Clear and structured handoffs minimize errors, promote continuity of care, and foster trust between team members.

38. How Do You Handle a Situation Where a Patient’s Condition Suddenly Deteriorates?
How to Answer: Emphasize composure and clinical skills.
Sample Answer: When a patient’s condition deteriorates, I act immediately. I assess vital signs, call for help, and follow emergency protocols such as initiating rapid response. For example, when a patient’s oxygen saturation suddenly dropped, I administered oxygen, raised the head of the bed, and notified the physician. Working efficiently with the team stabilized the patient within minutes. Staying calm, acting decisively, and communicating clearly are essential in these moments.

39. How Do You Support New Nurses or Nursing Students?
How to Answer: Demonstrate mentorship and leadership.
Sample Answer: I enjoy mentoring new nurses and helping them transition smoothly. I provide guidance on clinical procedures, encourage questions, and share tips for managing workload. I also offer constructive feedback in a supportive way. In my last role, I precepted three nursing students, helping them build confidence in patient assessments. Supporting others strengthens the team and fosters a positive learning environment that benefits both patients and staff.

40. What Do You Do When You’re Unsure About a Procedure or Policy?
How to Answer: Highlight safety and humility.
Sample Answer: If I’m ever unsure about a procedure, I consult the policy manual or ask a more experienced colleague or supervisor before proceeding. I believe that patient safety always comes before pride. For example, when I encountered a new wound-care technique early in my career, I asked for a demonstration before attempting it myself. This ensured accuracy and prevented potential harm. Knowing when to seek help demonstrates responsibility and professionalism.