Registered Nurse Interview Questions & Answers (2025)

Below is a list of commonly asked interview questions for a Registered Nurse (RN) position, covering behavioral, situational, technical, and cultural fit questions.

Behavioral Questions

• Tell me about a time you handled a difficult patient.
  I remained calm, listened actively, and used de-escalation techniques to address their concerns while ensuring their care needs were met.
• Describe a situation where you had to work under pressure.
  During a high-volume ER shift, I efficiently triaged patients, prioritized care, and collaborated with the team to provide timely treatment.
• Have you ever made a mistake? How did you handle it?
  I once misread a dosage but caught the error during my double-checking process. I immediately reported it and followed protocol to prevent harm.
• Tell me about a time you had to collaborate with a difficult colleague.
  I focused on open communication, active listening, and aligning on patient care goals to ensure a professional and effective working relationship.
• How do you handle stressful situations in a hospital setting?
  I stay composed by prioritizing tasks, deep breathing, and focusing on patient-centered care while seeking support when needed.

Situational Questions

• What would you do if a patient refused treatment?
  I would educate them on the risks and benefits, address concerns, and respect their autonomy while involving the healthcare team if necessary.
• How would you respond to a medical emergency?
  I would follow protocol, remain calm, initiate life-saving measures, and coordinate with the emergency response team.
• What would you do if you witnessed a coworker violating hospital policy?
  I would address the concern professionally, report it through the appropriate channels, and ensure patient safety is maintained.
• How would you comfort a distressed patient’s family?
  I would provide clear information, listen empathetically, and reassure them while maintaining professional boundaries.
• If you had to handle multiple critical patients at once, how would you prioritize?
  I would assess acuity levels, delegate tasks when appropriate, and ensure the most urgent cases receive immediate attention.

Technical Questions

• What are the key vital signs you monitor, and why?
  Temperature, pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation help assess a patient’s overall condition and detect early warning signs.
• How do you prevent hospital-acquired infections?
  By following hand hygiene protocols, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring strict adherence to infection control policies.
• Explain how you would administer medication safely.
  I follow the “Five Rights” (right patient, right medication, right dose, right time, and right route) and document all administrations.
• How do you recognize signs of sepsis?
  Symptoms include fever, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, confusion, and shortness of breath; immediate medical intervention is required.
• What steps do you take to prevent patient falls?
  I conduct fall risk assessments, ensure bed alarms are in place, keep pathways clear, and educate patients on safety measures.

Cultural Fit Questions

• Why do you want to work at our hospital?
  I admire your commitment to patient-centered care and your innovative approach to healthcare, aligning with my professional values.
• How do you ensure compassionate care?
  By actively listening, addressing patient concerns, and treating every individual with dignity and respect.
• What does teamwork mean to you in a nursing environment?
  It means open communication, supporting colleagues, and working collaboratively to provide the best patient outcomes.
• How do you handle constructive criticism?
  I view it as an opportunity for growth, apply feedback, and strive to improve my skills.
• What motivates you as a nurse?
  Making a positive impact on patients' lives and continuously learning to provide the best possible care.