20 Common Nursing School Interview Questions + Best Answers
Nursing school interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can impress the admissions committee and secure your spot in the program. One of the most important aspects of your preparation should be anticipating the nursing school interview questions you may be asked and crafting strong responses.
In this blog, we'll cover some of the most common nursing school interview questions and provide you with the best answers to help you ace your interview. From questions about your motivation to become a nurse to those testing your critical thinking skills, we'll give you the tools you need to confidently answer any question that comes your way. So, let's get started!
What is a nursing school interview?
A nursing school interview is a part of the admission process for prospective nursing students, where they meet with representatives from the nursing program to discuss their qualifications and interest in pursuing a nursing career.
The nursing school interview questions and answers provide an opportunity for the admissions committee to get to know the applicant beyond their application materials and assess their communication skills, motivation, and suitability for the program.
The format of the interview can vary from program to program, but it may be conducted in person, online, or over the phone. The questions asked during the interview can range from general inquiries about the applicant's background and interests to more specific questions about their knowledge of the nursing profession and ability to handle challenging situations.
The purpose of the common nursing school interview questions is to determine if the applicant is a good fit for the program and has the potential to succeed as a nursing student and future healthcare professional.
Ways to prepare for nursing school interview questions
Here are some ways to prepare for nursing school interview questions:
Research the nursing program
Research the program and the institution thoroughly to understand the values, mission, and curriculum of your targeted paid or free nursing schools. It will help you align your responses with the program's goals and demonstrate your interest in the program.
Review nursing school interview questions
Get familiar with the types of nursing program interview questions that may be asked during the interview, such as questions about your motivation, experience, skills, and values. You can find sample nursing application questions online, or you can ask current nursing students or faculty members for guidance.
Practice with mock interviews
Practice answering school nurse interview questions with a friend, family member, or mentor. Ask them to provide constructive feedback on your responses, tone, and body language. You can also record yourself and review your performance to identify areas that need improvement.
Prepare your attire and documents
Dress appropriately for the interview, and ensure that you have all the required documents, such as your resume, transcripts, and certifications, organized and ready to present.
Reflect on your experiences
Reflect on your nursing-related experiences, including clinical rotations, volunteer work, and healthcare-related jobs. Consider how these experiences have prepared you for nursing school and how they have influenced your decision to pursue a career in nursing.
Be confident and authentic
Finally, be yourself and let your personality shine through during the interview. Show confidence in your abilities and passion for nursing, and be prepared to discuss your strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Remember to listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and respond thoughtfully and respectfully.
20 common nursing school interview questions
Question #1: What are some of your personal qualities that you believe will help you succeed in nursing?
Sample answer: As someone who is passionate about nursing, my personal qualities will enable me to succeed in this profession. One of my key strengths is my compassion for others.
I understand that nursing is not just about treating a patient's physical symptoms, but it also involves providing emotional support and empathy. I am committed to treating each patient with kindness and understanding, and this will help me build strong relationships with them.
Another personal quality that will help me succeed in nursing is my ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations.
I understand that working as a nurse can be very demanding, and there will be times when I need to make quick decisions under pressure. I have a strong ability to stay calm, think critically, and respond appropriately in challenging situations.
Lastly, my excellent communication skills will also be an asset in my nursing career. As a nurse, it is essential to be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. I am confident in my ability to listen attentively, convey information clearly, and express empathy and understanding to all those I interact with.
Overall, my compassion, ability to stay calm under pressure, and excellent communication skills will help me succeed in nursing and positively impact my patients' lives.
Question #2: Is there anything you would like to improve about yourself?
Sample answer: As a nurse, I understand there is always room for growth and improvement. One area that I would like to work on is my ability to handle stressful situations more effectively. Although I am generally able to remain calm and focused, I sometimes become overwhelmed in high-pressure situations. I would like to develop better-coping mechanisms, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices, that will help me stay centered and composed in the face of stress.
Another aspect of my nursing practice that I would like to improve is my ability to provide patient-centered care. While I am already attentive to my patients' needs and concerns, I know there is always more I can do to ensure that their care is centered around their individual preferences and goals. I would like to develop better communication skills that will allow me to listen to my patients and truly understand their unique perspectives.
Question #3: Tell me about a time when you didn’t know the answer to something at work. How did you go about finding the information?
Sample answer: As a nurse, I understand that there are times when I may not have all the answers or knowledge to address a specific situation. One instance where I faced this challenge was when a patient was prescribed a new medication that I needed to familiarize myself with, and they had some questions about it that I couldn't answer.
In this situation, I acknowledged to the patient that I didn't have the answer to their question, but I assured them that I would find out and get back to them as soon as possible. I immediately consulted with my colleagues and searched for relevant resources, such as medication guides and online databases. After gathering the necessary information, I spoke with the patient again and provided them with the answers they were looking for.
I also took this opportunity to learn more about the medication myself and how it interacted with the patient's other medications and health conditions. This helped me to better understand the medication's effects and potential side effects, which allowed me to provide more informed care to the patient in the future.
Question #4: Tell me about a time you received a negative evaluation. How did you respond?
Sample answer: I recall my experience of receiving a performance review that lasted ninety days from a prior job. I felt disappointed when my supervisor did not award me a perfect score for meeting all the criteria. I was very enthusiastic about my job, took pride in my punctuality, and never missed a day of work, but I needed to pay more attention to the small details.
My supervisor complimented me on having an excellent personality but expressed that I appeared rushed, resulting in customers needing help fully appreciating my positive attributes. She advised me that this could ultimately lead to poor customer satisfaction ratings. While it was disheartening to receive negative feedback, I approached the situation with the mindset that I could improve and do better. I took her advice and started slowing down to connect better with our customers. It helped me to establish a great rapport with them and the team. When I received the next review, I received a promotion and a raise.
Question #5: What do you think is the most important trait a nurse should have and why?
Sample answer: In my opinion, the most important trait a nurse should have is compassion. Compassion is the ability to understand and empathize with the experiences and emotions of others and to respond to them with kindness and care.
As a nurse, you are often the first point of contact for patients and their families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, and having compassion can make a significant difference in their overall experience.
When a nurse approaches their work with compassion, they create a safe and welcoming environment that can help patients feel more at ease and confident in their care. They are better equipped to listen to patients' concerns, advocate for their needs, and provide support and comfort during difficult times.
Additionally, compassion helps nurses to develop strong relationships with patients and their families, which can contribute to better health outcomes and overall satisfaction with care.
Of course, having compassion alone is not enough to be an excellent nurse. Other traits, such as critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills, are also essential for providing high-quality care. However, I believe that compassion serves as the foundation for all other qualities, and it is the most critical trait a nurse can possess.
Question #6: How do you feel when failing to meet a goal as a nurse? What drives you to keep trying?
Sample answer: As a nurse, failing to meet a goal can be challenging and disheartening. However, I try to approach every setback as an opportunity to learn and grow. I understand that nursing is a constantly evolving field, and there is always room for improvement.
When I fail to meet a goal, I take some time to reflect on what went wrong and what I can do differently next time. I also seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to get a better understanding of how I can improve. While it can be difficult to receive criticism, I know that it is essential for my growth as a nurse and ultimately helps me become a better caregiver.
What drives me to keep trying is my commitment to providing the best possible care to my patients. Nursing is a demanding field, but the rewards of helping patients and making a positive difference in their lives are immeasurable. I am passionate about my work, and I know that every goal I set for myself is an opportunity to enhance the care I provide.
Additionally, the support and encouragement of my colleagues and supervisors motivate me to keep trying. Nursing is a team effort, and knowing that I have a strong support system behind me gives me the confidence to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.
Overall, while failing to meet a goal as a nurse can be difficult, I try to approach every setback as a learning opportunity and stay focused on my commitment to providing excellent care to my patients.
Question #7: What qualities do you have that you feel set you apart from other applicants or will make you a good candidate for our nursing program?
Sample answer: I believe that my combination of personal and professional qualities sets me apart as a strong candidate for your nursing program. One of my most significant strengths is my ability to empathize with others. I have always been drawn to caring for people, and I believe that my compassionate nature will be invaluable in providing exceptional patient care.
In addition, I am a quick learner, and I adapt well to new environments and situations. I thrive under pressure and can manage multiple tasks efficiently. I believe that these qualities will be particularly useful in the fast-paced, dynamic environment of nursing.
I am also a team player and enjoy collaborating with others to achieve shared goals. I am always willing to lend a helping hand to my colleagues, and I believe that my positive attitude and work ethic make me a valuable asset to any team.
Furthermore, I am committed to lifelong learning and continuous professional development. I am eager to expand my knowledge and skillset in nursing and contribute to the advancement of the profession. I believe that my passion for learning and personal growth will allow me to excel in your nursing program and as a nurse in the future.
Overall, I believe that my combination of empathy, adaptability, teamwork, and commitment to learning make me a strong candidate for your nursing program. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the nursing profession and provide exceptional care to patients.
Question #8: Can you explain situations without using a lot of medical jargon? Give an example.
Sample answer: As a nurse, I encounter patients with diverse educational backgrounds and ages. To ensure effective communication, I make it a priority to simplify medical terminology and explain procedures in ways that are easily understood. For instance, when a doctor orders radiology for a patient, I take the time to explain that the patient will be receiving an X-ray. To confirm the patient's understanding, I encourage them to repeat back what they heard. This approach helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and promotes better communication and care.
Question #9: What was your favorite subject in school?
Sample answer: My favorite subject in school was biology. I've always been fascinated by the complexity and diversity of life on our planet, and biology provided a framework for understanding it all. From the intricate workings of the human body to the interdependent relationships between different organisms in an ecosystem, biology helped me see the world in a new light.
I also enjoyed the hands-on aspect of biology, such as dissecting specimens and conducting experiments in the lab. These experiences allowed me to apply what I learned in the classroom and gain a deeper appreciation for the subject matter.
Overall, my love of biology was a major factor in my decision to pursue a career in healthcare. I believe that understanding the biological underpinnings of health and disease is essential for providing effective care to patients.
Question #10: Have you ever struggled or fallen behind in a class? If so, how did you handle it, and do you think you could use the same approach with a similar situation in nursing school?
Sample answer: Yes, I've definitely faced academic challenges in the past. In particular, I remember struggling with a difficult math class in college. Despite my best efforts, I was falling behind and not grasping the material as quickly as I needed to. To address the issue, I sought out additional resources, such as tutoring and online study materials. I also made a point of meeting with the professor during office hours and asking questions to clarify any concepts that were unclear to me.
Ultimately, these efforts paid off, and I was able to improve my understanding of the subject matter and catch up with the rest of the class. I believe that this same approach could be useful in nursing school or any other challenging academic program. In nursing, as in any other field, there will be times when we encounter difficult concepts or struggle to keep up with the pace of the coursework. In those situations, it's important to be proactive and seek out resources and support to help us stay on track and succeed.
Question #11: Do you have any experience working in healthcare?
Sample answer: While I haven't worked in a healthcare-related job, I do have some relevant experience. During a few summers, I worked at a local dentist's office, where I assisted with front office duties and billing. However, I am eager to gain more hands-on experience and am planning to become a certified nursing assistant (CNA) soon. My goal is to find part-time work in this field as soon as possible to supplement my academic studies and gain valuable experience working with patients.
Question #12: Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a coworker. What did you do to resolve the conflict, and what was the outcome?
Sample answer: During my time working on a medical-surgical unit, I had a disagreement with a fellow nurse regarding the care of one of our patients. We had different opinions on the best course of action to take, and tensions started to rise. However, I knew that it was important to approach the situation calmly and professionally to ensure the best outcome for our patient.
To resolve the conflict, I suggested that we take a step back and review the patient's medical record together. As we went through the information, we were able to identify key factors that helped us to agree on the appropriate care plan. We also took the time to discuss our individual concerns and perspectives, which helped to address any underlying issues and ensure that we were both on the same page moving forward.
The outcome was positive, as we were able to work collaboratively and provide the best possible care for our patients. We both learned a lot from the experience and were able to build a stronger working relationship as a result. Since then, we have continued to communicate effectively and collaborate as needed to ensure that our patients receive the highest quality of care.
Question #13: In your opinion, how important is open communication between team members?
Sample answer: Open communication is absolutely essential in any healthcare setting, and as a nurse, I believe it is one of the most important aspects of providing high-quality patient care. In order to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care, it is essential that all members of the healthcare team are able to communicate effectively and work collaboratively.
Effective communication among team members ensures that everyone is aware of any changes in a patient's condition, any new information or updates on their care plan, and any potential risks or concerns that may arise. This allows us to work together to address any issues promptly and ensure that our patients receive the appropriate care and treatment.
Additionally, open communication allows team members to share their expertise and insights with one another, which can lead to more effective and efficient care. It also helps to promote a culture of safety and transparency, which can help to prevent errors and improve patient outcomes.
Overall, open communication is a critical component of effective healthcare delivery, and as a nurse, I will always prioritize clear and open communication with my colleagues to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Question #14: Do you prefer to work independently or with a partner or team?
Sample answer: As a nurse, both working independently and as part of a team are important in providing high-quality patient care. There are times when working independently can be beneficial, such as when providing one-on-one care to a patient or performing certain tasks that require a high degree of focus and concentration.
However, I also believe that working as part of a team is essential in a healthcare setting. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals allows us to share our expertise and insights and can lead to more effective and efficient care. It also helps to promote a culture of safety and transparency, which can help to prevent errors and improve patient outcomes.
In my experience, the most effective teams are those that are able to communicate openly and honestly and that value the contributions of all team members. By working together towards a common goal, we can ensure that our patients receive the best possible care and treatment.
While I appreciate the benefits of working independently, I believe that teamwork is an essential part of nursing practice, and I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to provide the highest level of care to our patients.
Question #15: What are some negative effects experienced by nurses required to work long hours, such as twelve-to-eighteen-hour shifts?
Sample answer: Nurses who are required to work long hours, such as twelve-to-eighteen-hour shifts, may experience a range of negative effects that can impact both their personal and professional lives. Some of these negative effects include:
Physical exhaustion: Working long hours can be physically demanding, and nurses may experience exhaustion, fatigue, and even physical pain as a result. This can affect their ability to provide high-quality care and make important decisions.
Burnout: Nurses who work long hours may be at a higher risk of burnout, which can lead to feelings of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. Burnout can also lead to a decrease in job satisfaction and an increase in turnover rates.
Increased risk of errors: Working long hours can lead to decreased cognitive function and an increased risk of making errors. This can be especially dangerous in a healthcare setting, where errors can have serious consequences for patients.
Poor work-life balance: Nurses who work long hours may find it difficult to balance their work and personal lives, which can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and decreased overall quality of life.
Negative impact on mental health: Working long hours can take a toll on nurses' mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. This can also affect their ability to provide high-quality care and communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.
Question #16: Is there a person or situation that influenced your decision to become a nurse?
Sample answer: Yes, there is a person who influenced my decision to become a nurse. When I was in high school, my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer and required extensive medical care. As a result, I spent a lot of time at the hospital with her and had the opportunity to interact with many nurses who provided care for her.
I was struck by how compassionate and skilled these nurses were and how much they impacted my grandmother's overall well-being. They not only provided medical care but also emotional support and comfort to both my grandmother and our family. Seeing the positive impact they had on my grandmother's life and the lives of others inspired me to pursue a career in nursing.
In addition to my grandmother's situation, I also had a strong interest in the healthcare field and a desire to help others. Becoming a nurse was a natural fit for me, and I have found great fulfillment in this career. I am grateful for the role models and experiences that led me to pursue this path and for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others through nursing.
Question #17: What do you imagine is the most difficult thing about being a nurse?
Sample answer: Many nurses would likely agree that the most difficult thing about being a nurse is the emotional toll it can take. Nurses are often responsible for providing care to patients who are going through difficult and often life-changing experiences, such as illness, injury, and death. This can be emotionally challenging, especially when patients are unresponsive or unappreciative of the care they are receiving.
Additionally, nurses are often required to work long hours, sometimes under high-stress conditions, which can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. They may also be required to make quick and critical decisions that can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.
Nurses may also face challenges related to workplace dynamics, such as working with difficult colleagues or navigating complex hierarchies within healthcare organizations. Additionally, nurses may struggle with the demands of balancing work and personal responsibilities, particularly if they work long or irregular hours.
Overall, while nursing can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career, it also requires a great deal of emotional strength, resilience, and dedication.
Question #18: Can you give me an example of how you would demonstrate accountability if you made a mistake in the clinical setting?
Sample answer: If I make a mistake in the clinical setting, the first thing I would do is take responsibility for my actions. This would involve acknowledging the mistake, informing my supervisor or colleagues as appropriate, and taking steps to correct the error or mitigate its effects.
I would also be transparent about what happened and why, as well as what steps I am taking to prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future. This might involve reviewing relevant policies or procedures, seeking additional training or education, or working with my colleagues to identify areas for improvement.
I would also be willing to listen to feedback and suggestions from others and to work collaboratively to address any concerns or issues that arise as a result of the mistake. This might involve working with patients or their families to address any concerns they may have or collaborating with my colleagues to identify ways to improve communication or workflow processes to prevent similar errors from occurring in the future.
So accountability is an essential component of nursing practice, and it is important to take responsibility for one's actions, work collaboratively with colleagues, and take steps to prevent mistakes from happening in the future.
Question #19: What do you think will be the most rewarding part of being a nurse?
Sample answer: There are many aspects of being a nurse that can be rewarding, but perhaps the most fulfilling is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Nurses have the unique ability to provide care and support to patients during some of the most vulnerable and challenging moments of their lives, which can be incredibly meaningful and rewarding.
For example, nurses may have the opportunity to help patients manage their pain, recover from an illness or injury, or receive emotional support during difficult times. They may also play a key role in helping patients navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need to maintain their health and well-being.
In addition to providing direct patient care, nurses may also have the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes and promote best practices in healthcare. This can involve participating in research, quality improvement initiatives, and other initiatives aimed at improving patient care and advancing the field of nursing.
Overall, the most rewarding part of being a nurse is the ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others and to use one's knowledge and skills to promote health, healing, and well-being in both individual patients and the broader community.
Question #20: What is your idea of ethical behavior?
Sample answer: As a nurse, ethical behavior is a critical aspect of my profession. It involves adhering to a set of moral principles and values that guide my actions and decisions when caring for patients. Ethical behavior is about doing what is right, just, and fair, even when it may not be the easiest or most convenient option.
One of the most fundamental ethical principles in nursing is the principle of beneficence, which means doing good or acting in the best interest of the patient. This principle requires that I prioritize the needs and well-being of the patient over my own interests or those of other stakeholders, such as healthcare institutions or insurance providers.
Another crucial ethical principle is non-maleficence, which means avoiding harm to the patient. This principle is closely linked to beneficence, as doing no harm is a key aspect of acting in the patient's best interest.
Other ethical principles that guide my behavior as a nurse include autonomy, which involves respecting the patient's right to make their own decisions about their care, and justice, which involves treating all patients fairly and equitably, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background.
In addition to these principles, ethical behavior in nursing also involves maintaining patient confidentiality, obtaining informed consent before any procedures or treatments, reporting any instances of patient abuse or neglect, and advocating for the patient's rights and needs.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, nursing school interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with proper preparation, you can confidently answer common questions and impress your interviewers. Remember to highlight your strengths, experiences, and skills while also showing your passion for nursing and dedication to patient care. Practice your answers with a friend or family member, and don't forget to research the school and program beforehand. By following these tips and using the best answers provided, you can ace your nursing school interview and take the first step toward an exciting and rewarding career in nursing. Best of luck to all aspiring nurses!
FAQs
1- How do I pass a nursing school interview?
To pass a nursing school interview, you should prepare well in advance and demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and passion for nursing. Here are some tips to help you:
1- Research the school and program: Before your interview, research the nursing school and program thoroughly. Learn about their curriculum, faculty, clinical opportunities, and values. This will help you tailor your answers to align with their mission and demonstrate your interest in the program.
2- Dress appropriately: Dress professionally for the interview, as this shows that you are serious and committed to the profession.
3- Practice common questions: Review common nursing school interview questions and practice your answers. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your experiences and skills.
4- Be confident and enthusiastic: Show confidence and enthusiasm during the interview. Smile, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Demonstrate your passion for nursing and your willingness to learn and grow.
5- Highlight your strengths: Be sure to highlight your strengths and experiences that make you a great candidate for the program. Talk about your relevant coursework, volunteer work, or clinical experiences.
6- Be honest: Don't exaggerate your experiences or achievements. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, and show a willingness to learn and improve.
7- Ask questions: Prepare questions to ask the interviewers about the program or nursing profession. This shows that you are interested and engaged.
2- What questions are asked at a nursing university interview?
The specific questions asked during a nursing university interview may vary depending on the school and the program you are applying to, but here are some common questions that you may encounter:
Why do you want to become a nurse?
What experiences have you had that have prepared you for a career in nursing?
What qualities do you think are important for a nurse to possess?
How do you handle stressful situations, such as dealing with difficult patients or medical emergencies?
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the healthcare industry today?
What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see nursing fitting into those goals?
How do you plan to balance the demands of nursing school with your other responsibilities and commitments?
What do you think sets you apart from other applicants for this nursing program?
What clinical experiences do you hope to gain during your time in nursing school?
How do you plan to contribute to the nursing profession and make a positive impact on patient care?
