25 Agency Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Agency nurses are nurses who are hired by hospitals or other healthcare facilities to work on a temporary or contract basis. They are often hired to fill in for nurses who are on vacation, on maternity leave, or are ill.

Agency nurses may have more experience than nurses who are permanently employed by a hospital. They may also have more specialized skills, such as in critical care or neonatal nursing.

If you are an agency nurse who is interested in a permanent position at a hospital, you will likely be required to go through a job interview. In order to prepare for the interview, you should review the most common questions that are asked and practice your answers.

The questions that are asked in an agency nurse interview will vary depending on the hospital, but some of the most common questions include:

-Why are you interested in working at our hospital? -What are your strengths and weaknesses? -What are your qualifications? -Why did you leave your last job? -What are your availability? -What are your rates?

1. Are you comfortable working with a team of healthcare professionals?

Agency nurses often work with a variety of healthcare professionals, including doctors and other nurses. The interviewer wants to know if you have any experience working in teams and how well you collaborate with others. Use your answer to highlight your teamwork skills and ability to communicate effectively with others.

Example: “Absolutely! I have extensive experience working with teams of healthcare professionals. In my current role as an Agency Nurse, I collaborate closely with a variety of medical staff including doctors, nurses, and other specialists to ensure the best possible care for our patients. I am comfortable taking direction from team leaders and providing guidance when needed. I understand the importance of communication and collaboration in order to provide quality patient care. I also enjoy learning new skills and techniques from my colleagues that can help me become a better nurse.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for an agency nurse to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you possess the qualities they look for in their employees. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few of your own personal qualities and how they relate to those that are important for agency nurses.

Example: “As an agency nurse, I believe the most important qualities to have are excellent communication skills, flexibility, and a strong work ethic.

Having excellent communication skills is essential for any healthcare professional, but especially for an agency nurse who may be working with different teams in various settings. Being able to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other medical professionals is key for providing quality care.

Flexibility is also very important for an agency nurse as they may need to adjust their schedule or take on new tasks quickly depending on the needs of the facility. It’s important to be able to think on your feet and adapt to changing circumstances.

Lastly, having a strong work ethic is critical for an agency nurse. This means being punctual, reliable, and dedicated to providing the best possible care. As an agency nurse, it’s important to always maintain high standards of care and professionalism.”

3. How would you describe your work ethic?

Agency nurses often work long hours and may have to travel for their job. Employers ask this question to make sure you are willing to put in the extra effort required of an agency nurse. In your answer, share two or three examples of how you’ve worked hard in a previous role.

Example: “My work ethic is one of dedication and commitment. I believe in going the extra mile to ensure that my patients receive the best care possible. I am highly organized and take pride in being able to multi-task efficiently. I always strive to stay up to date on the latest developments in nursing practices, so that I can provide the highest quality of care for my patients.

I also have excellent communication skills which help me to build strong relationships with both my colleagues and patients. I’m a team player who enjoys working collaboratively to achieve positive outcomes. Finally, I’m passionate about providing compassionate care and making sure that each patient feels heard and respected throughout their treatment.”

4. What is your experience with administering medications?

This question is a great way to determine how much experience you have with the nursing field. It’s important for an agency nurse to be able to administer medications, so it’s crucial that they are experienced in this area. When answering this question, make sure to mention any specific types of medication you’ve administered and what your experience was like.

Example: “I have extensive experience administering medications as an agency nurse. I am familiar with all the standard procedures for safely and accurately administering medications, including verifying patient information, preparing medication dosages, and documenting administration. In addition to my clinical skills, I also possess excellent communication and organizational abilities that enable me to effectively manage multiple tasks at once.

I understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to administering medications and always take extra care to double-check each step of the process. I’m also well-versed in recognizing potential drug interactions and adverse reactions, so I can quickly identify and address any issues that may arise. Finally, I’m comfortable working independently or as part of a team, depending on the situation.”

5. Provide an example of a time you provided exceptional patient care.

This question is an opportunity to showcase your skills and abilities as a nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific details about the situation and how you helped your patient.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to provide exceptional patient care while working as an Agency Nurse. I was assigned to a patient who had been in the hospital for several weeks and was having difficulty managing their pain. As part of my role, I worked with the patient to develop an individualized plan that addressed their needs. This included developing strategies to manage their pain, such as relaxation techniques and guided imagery.

In addition, I provided emotional support by listening to their concerns and helping them find ways to cope with their situation. I also collaborated with other members of the healthcare team to ensure the patient received the best possible care. Through this process, I was able to help the patient feel more comfortable and better manage their pain. My efforts were recognized by the patient’s family, who thanked me for providing such excellent care.”

6. If a patient had a negative reaction to a medication you administered, what would your response be?

This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenging situations. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions and learn from mistakes.

Example: “If a patient had a negative reaction to a medication I administered, my first priority would be to assess the situation and take appropriate action. This could include contacting the prescribing physician for further instructions or calling emergency services if necessary. Once the immediate health concern is addressed, I would document the incident in the patient’s medical record, including any symptoms that were observed.

I understand the importance of communication when it comes to adverse reactions to medications, so I would ensure that all relevant parties are informed of the incident. This includes communicating with the patient’s family members, other healthcare providers involved in their care, and the pharmacy that dispensed the medication. I believe open dialogue is essential for providing safe and effective care.”

7. What would you do if you noticed another nurse making a mistake while caring for a patient?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to communicate. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you noticed a mistake and helped the nurse learn from their error.

Example: “If I noticed another nurse making a mistake while caring for a patient, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of the patient. I would assess the situation and take appropriate action to correct any errors that have been made. This could involve informing the other nurse of their error and helping them to understand how to properly care for the patient. If necessary, I would also inform the supervising staff or doctor about the incident so that they can provide additional guidance and support. Finally, I would document the incident in the patient’s medical record to ensure that it is accurately reflected in the patient’s history.”

8. How well do you communicate both verbally and non-verbally?

Agency nurses often work with a variety of patients and their families, so employers ask this question to make sure you can communicate effectively. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention how you have improved your communication skills in the past or what steps you would take to improve them.

Example: “I have excellent communication skills both verbally and non-verbally. I am a strong listener, which allows me to understand the needs of my patients quickly and accurately. My verbal communication is clear and concise, allowing for easy understanding between myself and my colleagues.

In addition, I also possess great non-verbal communication skills. I am able to read body language and facial expressions, enabling me to provide better care to my patients. This helps create an environment of trust and respect with those in my care. Furthermore, I’m comfortable using technology such as telemedicine to communicate with remote teams or patients.”

9. Do you have experience working with patients who have limited vision, hearing or mobility?

Agency nurses often work with patients who have limited mobility, hearing or vision. Employers ask this question to make sure you are comfortable working with these types of patients and that you can provide the best care possible for them. In your answer, share a specific example of how you worked with a patient who had one of these limitations. Explain what steps you took to ensure they received quality care despite their challenges.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with patients who have limited vision, hearing or mobility. During my time as an Agency Nurse, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of patients with different needs and abilities. I understand that each patient is unique and requires individualized care.

I’m comfortable providing assistance to those with limited vision, hearing, or mobility. I am familiar with the techniques needed to help them navigate their environment safely and comfortably. For example, when assisting a visually impaired patient, I make sure to provide verbal cues and tactile guidance to ensure they can move around without difficulty. Similarly, I use sign language and other communication methods when caring for those with hearing impairments. Finally, I’m experienced in helping those with physical disabilities by using adaptive equipment and providing support to help them complete daily activities.”

10. When caring for a patient, what is your process for documenting your actions?

This question can help interviewers understand how you approach your work and the steps you take to complete it. When answering, try to describe a specific process you use for documenting patient information and include any tools or software you use to do so.

Example: “When caring for a patient, I make sure to document my actions in an accurate and timely manner. First, I review the patient’s medical history and any relevant notes from previous visits. Then, I assess the patient’s current condition and develop a plan of care based on their needs. Throughout the visit, I take detailed notes about the patient’s symptoms, treatments, medications, and other pertinent information. Finally, I summarize all of this information into a concise report that is easy to understand.

I also ensure that all documentation is completed correctly and submitted within the required timeframe. My goal is to provide clear and comprehensive records that accurately reflect the care provided to each patient. This helps to ensure continuity of care and allows for better communication between healthcare providers.”

11. We want to ensure our patients receive the best care possible. How would you evaluate the quality of care you’ve provided?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your assessment skills and how you can improve the quality of care you provide. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to evaluate your own performance as well as that of other nurses on staff.

Example: “I take great pride in the quality of care I provide to my patients. To evaluate the quality of care, I look at a variety of factors such as patient satisfaction, outcomes, and adherence to protocols.

I regularly check-in with my patients to ensure they are satisfied with the level of care they are receiving. I also review their medical records to make sure that all treatments have been administered correctly and that any follow-up instructions have been followed. Finally, I monitor patient outcomes to assess whether the treatment plans I’ve implemented have been successful.”

12. Describe your process for handling stress and remaining calm when working with a demanding patient or situation.

Agency nurses often work with patients who are experiencing a lot of stress and anxiety. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to help your patients remain calm during their medical procedures. In your answer, explain how you use your interpersonal skills to comfort your patients and keep them focused on what’s happening in the present moment.

Example: “When I am faced with a demanding patient or situation, my first priority is to remain calm and professional. I take a few moments to pause and assess the situation before responding. This helps me to stay level-headed and think through how best to handle it.

I also find that taking deep breaths and counting to ten can help to reduce stress levels. It allows me to step back from the situation and gain perspective. Once I have done this, I focus on finding solutions that are in the best interest of both myself and the patient.

In addition, I make sure to communicate clearly and effectively with patients and colleagues. Being able to express my thoughts and feelings in a respectful manner helps to create an atmosphere of understanding and respect. Finally, I always strive to maintain a positive attitude and look for opportunities to learn from each experience.”

13. What makes you stand out from other candidates?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about you and your qualifications. It’s also an opportunity to show them how you can be an asset to their team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight any unique skills or experiences that make you a strong candidate.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other candidates. I have been an agency nurse for the past five years, during which time I have gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise in providing quality patient care. My ability to quickly assess patients’ needs and develop appropriate treatment plans has enabled me to provide effective and efficient care. In addition, I am highly organized and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

Furthermore, I have excellent communication skills and can effectively collaborate with both medical staff and patients. I understand the importance of maintaining positive relationships with colleagues and clients alike and strive to ensure that everyone involved is satisfied with the outcome of any given situation. Finally, I have a strong commitment to continuing education and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in nursing practice. This ensures that I remain knowledgeable and capable of providing the highest level of care possible.”

14. Which software programs are you familiar with using?

Agency nurses often need to use a variety of software programs. The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your experience using specific programs and how you would adapt to new ones if necessary. In your answer, list the software programs you are familiar with and explain why you chose them. If you have not used all of these programs before, consider mentioning the ones you are most interested in learning more about.

Example: “I am very familiar with a variety of software programs. I have experience using electronic medical records (EMR) systems such as Epic, Cerner, and Allscripts. I also have experience using scheduling and billing software like Meditech, Practice Fusion, and Athenahealth. In addition to these, I am proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Finally, I am comfortable navigating web-based applications for patient portals and other administrative tasks.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being a part of a healthcare team?

This question is an opportunity to show your interpersonal skills and ability to work well with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight a specific time when you helped a team member or patient feel supported.

Example: “I believe that the most important aspect of being a part of a healthcare team is communication. Effective communication between all members of the team is essential in order to ensure patient safety, provide quality care, and maintain a positive work environment. As an agency nurse, I understand the importance of staying informed on changes within the team and communicating any concerns or questions with my colleagues. I also strive to be open-minded and flexible when it comes to working with different teams, as this allows for better collaboration and problem solving. Finally, I recognize the value of providing support to other members of the team and am always willing to lend a helping hand when needed.”

16. How often do you perform check-ups on patients?

This question can help interviewers understand how often you perform your job duties and whether or not you are comfortable with the frequency. You should answer honestly, but also consider what is expected of agency nurses in this role.

Example: “As an Agency Nurse, I understand the importance of performing regular check-ups on patients. It is essential to ensure that they are receiving quality care and their health is being monitored closely. Therefore, I always strive to perform check-ups as often as possible. Depending on the patient’s condition and medical history, I typically conduct check-ups every two weeks or so. During these check-ups, I assess vital signs, review medications, and discuss any changes in symptoms with the patient. I also provide education about lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and other treatments that may be beneficial for them. My goal is to make sure that each patient receives the best possible care while under my supervision.”

17. There is a high volume of patients to see today, but you’re feeling under the weather. What would you do?

This question is designed to assess your ability to prioritize patients and make decisions in the moment. Your answer should show that you can use common sense, take initiative and act quickly when necessary.

Example: “If I am feeling under the weather, my first priority is to take care of myself. I would assess how I’m feeling and determine if it’s safe for me to continue working. If my symptoms are mild enough that I can still provide quality care to patients, then I will do so. However, if my condition prevents me from doing so, then I will inform my supervisor right away and let them know that I need to take a break or go home.

I understand that there is a high volume of patients to see today, but patient safety always comes first. As an experienced Agency Nurse, I have developed strategies to ensure that all patients receive quality care even when I’m not feeling well. For example, I can delegate tasks to other nurses on staff or ask for help from colleagues in order to manage the workload. This way, I can make sure that all patients get the care they need while also taking care of myself.”

18. How would you handle a situation where a patient is refusing to follow instructions?

Agency nurses often work with patients who are in pain or have other issues that make it difficult for them to follow instructions. An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you might handle a challenging situation. In your answer, try to describe the steps you would take to help resolve the issue while maintaining the patient’s dignity.

Example: “If a patient is refusing to follow instructions, I would first take the time to understand why they are not following the instructions. It could be due to a misunderstanding of what was asked or it could be because of fear or anxiety about the treatment. Once I have identified the reason for their refusal, I can then work with them to come up with an alternative plan that meets both our needs.

For example, if the patient is afraid of needles and refuses to get an injection, I could offer other options such as taking medication orally or using a topical cream. If the patient still refuses, I would explain the consequences of not following the instructions and provide emotional support to help them feel more comfortable. Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the patient receives the best care possible while also respecting their wishes.”

19. Describe your experience in performing minor surgeries or procedures.

This question is a great way to determine your level of experience and comfort with performing certain procedures. If you have previous experience in this area, describe the type of procedure or surgery you performed and how often you did it. If you don’t have any experience, explain why you feel comfortable doing so if you have training or certification.

Example: “I have extensive experience in performing minor surgeries and procedures. I have been an Agency Nurse for the past three years, during which time I have worked with a variety of medical teams in different settings. During this time, I have gained valuable experience in performing minor surgical and procedural tasks such as suturing, wound care, catheter insertion, and IV placement.

I am confident in my ability to perform these tasks safely and efficiently. I always ensure that I adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines when performing any procedure or surgery. I also take the time to educate patients on the risks and benefits associated with each procedure so they can make informed decisions about their care. Finally, I strive to provide compassionate and personalized care to every patient I work with.”

20. Are you familiar with the latest medical advancements and technology?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are up-to-date on the latest medical advancements and technology. This can be an important skill for agency nurses, as they often work with patients who have complex conditions that require advanced treatment methods. In your answer, try to show that you are familiar with the most recent developments in healthcare. You can also mention any specific skills or training you have that make you a good fit for working with these types of patients.

Example: “Yes, I am familiar with the latest medical advancements and technology. As an Agency Nurse, I strive to stay up-to-date on the most current developments in healthcare. I regularly attend continuing education courses and seminars to ensure that my knowledge is relevant and up-to-date. In addition, I have a strong network of colleagues who are also knowledgeable about the latest advancements in medicine and technology. This allows me to stay informed and be able to provide the best care possible for my patients.

I understand the importance of using the latest technology and medical advancements to improve patient outcomes. I believe that by staying abreast of the latest trends and innovations, I can better serve my patients and help them achieve their health goals.”

21. What steps do you take when preparing for an appointment?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you plan your day and manage your time. Your answer should include a step-by-step process of what you do before each appointment to ensure that you arrive on time and have everything you need for the patient.

Example: “When preparing for an appointment, I take a few steps to ensure that I am well-prepared and ready to provide the best care possible. First, I review the patient’s medical history and any relevant notes from previous appointments. This helps me understand their condition and any potential risks or concerns.

Next, I make sure that I have all of the necessary equipment and supplies needed for the appointment. This includes anything from bandages and gauze to medications and syringes. Finally, I familiarize myself with the patient’s chart and any other relevant information so that I can be as prepared as possible when it comes time to treat them.”

22. How have you handled difficult conversations with patients and their families?

Agency nurses often work with patients and their families who are experiencing challenging situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience handling these types of conversations. Use your answer to show that you can be empathetic, compassionate and professional when working with these patients and their loved ones.

Example: “I have had to handle difficult conversations with patients and their families on numerous occasions throughout my career as an Agency Nurse. I understand that these conversations can be emotionally charged, so I always approach them in a calm and professional manner. I take the time to listen to all parties involved and ensure that everyone’s concerns are heard and addressed.

When possible, I try to provide solutions that will benefit both the patient and their family. For example, if there is a disagreement about a course of treatment, I explain the pros and cons of each option and allow the patient or their family to make the final decision. This helps to build trust between myself and the patient, which makes it easier for me to communicate effectively during future interactions.”

23. What strategies do you use to stay organized and ensure accuracy in completing tasks?

Agency nurses often have to manage multiple tasks at once, so employers ask this question to make sure you can stay organized and focused. In your answer, explain how you plan out your day and prioritize your tasks. You can also mention any organizational tools or apps that help you stay on top of things.

Example: “Staying organized and ensuring accuracy in completing tasks is a priority for me as an Agency Nurse. I use several strategies to ensure that I am able to stay on top of my work and meet deadlines.

The first strategy I use is creating a detailed plan for each task I need to complete. This includes breaking down the task into smaller, manageable steps so that I can track my progress and make sure I’m staying on track. I also prioritize my tasks according to their importance and urgency, which helps me focus on the most important ones first.

Another strategy I use is setting reminders for myself. I set alarms or calendar notifications for upcoming deadlines so that I don’t miss them. I also keep lists of all the tasks I need to do and check off items as I go along.

Lastly, I take breaks throughout the day to give my mind a break from the task at hand. Taking regular breaks helps me stay focused and energized when I return to my work.”

24. Tell us about a time you had to make a decision under pressure.

This question can help an interviewer get to know you as a person and how you react under pressure. It can also show them your decision-making skills, which are important for this role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a time when you had to make a quick decision that impacted the outcome of a situation.

Example: “I recently had to make a decision under pressure while working as an Agency Nurse. I was assigned to care for a patient who had been admitted with severe sepsis and required immediate medical attention. The attending physician wanted to start the patient on antibiotics, but there were concerns about potential drug interactions with other medications the patient was taking.

Given the urgency of the situation, I had to quickly assess the risks associated with administering the antibiotics and determine if it was safe to proceed. After consulting with the pharmacist and reviewing the patient’s medication list, I concluded that the risk of adverse reactions was low enough to justify starting the antibiotics. My quick decision enabled us to provide the patient with the necessary treatment in time to prevent further complications.

This experience demonstrated my ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions quickly. It also highlighted my knowledge of pharmacology and my commitment to providing quality care to my patients.”

25. How do you prioritize tasks when caring for multiple patients simultaneously?

Agency nurses often have to care for multiple patients at the same time. This question helps employers understand how you manage your time and responsibilities while working in a fast-paced environment. Use examples from previous experience to show that you can multitask effectively and efficiently.

Example: “When caring for multiple patients simultaneously, I prioritize tasks based on the urgency of each patient’s needs. First and foremost, I always ensure that all patients are safe and comfortable. Then, I assess their individual conditions to determine which tasks need to be completed first. For example, if one patient is in pain or has a more serious condition than the others, I will focus my attention on them first. After ensuring that all urgent needs are met, I move onto completing any remaining tasks in order of importance. Finally, I document all care provided so that other healthcare professionals can easily access it.”