Top 20 Clinical Nurse Interview Questions and Answers (2025)

Preparing for a Clinical Nurse interview in 2025 requires a blend of professional insight, empathy, and up-to-date knowledge of nursing practices. Below is a comprehensive list of behavioral, situational, technical, and cultural fit questions along with well-crafted answers to help you succeed in your next interview.

Behavioral Questions

1. Describe a time you had to handle a difficult patient.
I stayed calm, listened actively, and showed empathy to de-escalate the situation while ensuring patient safety and comfort.
2. Tell me about a mistake you made in patient care and how you handled it.
I once misread a medication dosage but caught it during my recheck; I immediately reported it and followed protocol to prevent harm.
3. Share an experience where you worked in a team during a critical situation.
During a code blue, I efficiently handled chest compressions while communicating with doctors and documenting actions in real-time.
4. How do you manage stress during long or intense shifts?
I prioritize tasks, take short breaks when possible, and practice mindfulness to stay focused and composed under pressure.
5. Describe a time you provided emotional support to a patient or family.
I comforted a family after a terminal diagnosis by being present, answering their questions, and connecting them with grief counselors.

Situational Questions

6. What would you do if a patient refuses their medication?
I’d educate them on the importance, listen to their concerns, and notify the doctor if they continue to refuse.
7. How would you handle a situation where your shift replacement is late?
I’d stay with the patients until someone arrives and inform the supervisor to maintain continuity of care.
8. What would you do if you noticed a coworker making a serious mistake?
I would address it immediately to prevent harm and report it to the supervisor per hospital protocol.
9. How would you deal with a sudden patient emergency?
I would stay calm, assess vitals, call for help, and initiate emergency procedures as trained.
10. What would you do if a family member complains about care quality?
I’d listen empathetically, apologize for the experience, and involve the charge nurse to address their concerns professionally.

Technical Questions

11. How do you perform a head-to-toe assessment?
I start with vital signs, then examine each body system in a structured order from neurological to extremities.
12. What is your experience with EHR systems?
I am proficient with Epic and Cerner, accurately inputting documentation and retrieving patient records efficiently.
13. Explain the steps for administering IV medications safely.
I check the order, verify patient identity, ensure compatibility, monitor the patient, and document everything promptly.
14. How do you identify and manage pressure ulcers?
I regularly reposition patients, assess skin integrity, and use support surfaces and wound care protocols as needed.
15. How do you prioritize patient care during a busy shift?
I use clinical judgment to address critical patients first, then delegate tasks appropriately and reassess priorities throughout the shift.

Cultural Fit Questions

16. Why do you want to work at our facility?
I admire your commitment to patient-centered care and innovation, which aligns with my personal and professional values.
17. How do you handle working in a diverse environment?
I respect all cultures, actively listen, and adapt my communication to meet each patient’s needs respectfully.
18. How do you ensure compassionate care?
I listen without judgment, acknowledge patient emotions, and involve them in care decisions to make them feel valued.
19. What does teamwork mean to you in a nursing environment?
Teamwork means open communication, mutual support, and shared responsibility for delivering excellent patient care.
20. Describe your ideal work culture.
One that fosters respect, continuous learning, collaboration, and prioritizes patient safety and staff well-being.