25 New Grad Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Nursing is a profession that is always in high demand due to the constant need for nurses in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. If you are a recent nursing graduate, you may be wondering what to expect during your job interview. One of the most important things you can do to prepare for your interview is to review the most common nursing interview questions and answers.

In this guide, you will find questions that are commonly asked in nursing job interviews. You will also find tips for answering these questions. By preparing for your interview, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want.

1. What do you hope to accomplish within the first 90 days of working here?

This question is a great way to see how ambitious you are and what your goals are for the future. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you hope to learn or accomplish in that time frame. It can also be beneficial to mention any specific goals you have for yourself as well as the hospital.

Example: “Within the first 90 days of working here, I hope to become a valuable member of the nursing team. I want to demonstrate my commitment to providing exceptional patient care and build strong relationships with colleagues. To do this, I plan on taking initiative in learning about the facility’s policies and procedures, as well as familiarizing myself with the staff and their roles. I also look forward to developing my clinical skills by actively participating in hands-on training opportunities.

I am eager to take on new challenges and expand my knowledge base. I believe that by doing so, I will be able to provide better quality care for patients while also increasing my own professional development. Ultimately, I strive to make a positive impact on the organization and contribute to its success.”

2. Why are you the best candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your confidence and self-awareness. They want to know that you are qualified for the job, but they also want to see how you can improve yourself as a nurse. When answering this question, make sure you highlight your skills and abilities while also mentioning any areas where you would like to grow.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my strong educational background, clinical experience and passion for nursing.

My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from [Name] University, where I graduated with honors and was awarded multiple scholarships. During my studies, I completed a variety of courses related to patient care and medical treatments, which have given me a solid foundation of knowledge that I can apply to this role.

In addition, I have gained valuable hands-on experience through various clinical rotations at local hospitals and health centers. This has enabled me to develop my skills in providing compassionate patient care and working as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Most importantly, I am passionate about nursing and helping others. I am eager to learn new things and take on any challenges that come my way. I am confident that I will be able to make a positive contribution to your organization and help provide quality care to your patients.”

3. What are your favorite aspects of being a nurse?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer your passion for nursing. When answering this question, it can be helpful to include a specific example of how you enjoy helping others and making a difference in their lives.

Example: “I have always been passionate about nursing and the impact it has on people’s lives. My favorite aspects of being a nurse are the relationships I build with my patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. I take pride in providing compassionate care to those who need it most.

I also enjoy the challenge of problem-solving and finding creative solutions for complex medical issues. I believe that nurses should be active participants in patient care, so I strive to stay up-to-date on the latest treatments and technologies. Finally, I love the feeling of accomplishment when I can make a positive difference in someone’s life.”

4. What made you decide to become a nurse?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand why you are passionate about nursing. It also helps them learn more about your background, such as what influenced you to become a nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something that inspired you to pursue nursing or an influential person in your life who encouraged you to enter the medical field.

Example: “I have always been passionate about helping people and making a difference in the lives of others. Growing up, I was surrounded by healthcare professionals who inspired me to pursue a career in nursing. After researching different roles within the field, I found that nursing offered an opportunity to combine my passion for helping people with my interest in science and medicine.

I believe that nurses are essential members of any healthcare team, providing compassionate care while also advocating for their patients. As a nurse, I am committed to providing high-quality patient care and ensuring that each person is treated with dignity and respect. I am confident that my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence will make me an asset to your organization.”

5. How does this role align with your career goals?

Employers ask this question to see if you are a good fit for the role and whether or not you have realistic expectations. When answering, be honest about your career goals and how this position can help you achieve them. If you’re unsure of what your career goals are, think about why you decided to become a nurse in the first place.

Example: “This role aligns perfectly with my career goals as a new grad nurse. I am looking to gain experience in the nursing field and this position will allow me to do just that. The opportunity to work at your facility would be an incredible learning experience for me, as it is a highly respected hospital with excellent patient care.

I am passionate about providing quality healthcare to those who need it most and believe this job would give me the chance to do so. I am eager to learn from experienced nurses and use my knowledge of evidence-based practice to provide the best possible care to patients. I am also excited to develop my skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem solving, which are essential components of being a successful nurse.”

6. What do you find most challenging about being a nurse?

This question can help interviewers understand what you find challenging and how you approach those challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you overcame the challenge or how you plan to overcome it in your future role.

Example: “As a nurse, I find the most challenging part of my job is balancing patient care with administrative tasks. It can be difficult to manage both while ensuring that each task is completed accurately and efficiently. To help me stay organized and on top of my workload, I use time management techniques such as breaking down tasks into smaller chunks and setting deadlines for myself. I also make sure to prioritize tasks based on urgency, so that I am able to provide the best possible care for my patients in a timely manner. Furthermore, I strive to maintain an open line of communication with my colleagues and supervisors to ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to patient care. By doing this, I am able to work collaboratively and effectively with my team.”

7. Tell me about your work ethic.

Employers ask this question to learn more about your work ethic and how you approach your job. They want to know that you are a hard worker who is willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. When answering, think of an example from your past where you worked extra hours or did something above and beyond what was required of you.

Example: “My work ethic is centered around providing the best possible care for my patients. I believe that patient safety and satisfaction should always be top priority, so I strive to ensure that all of my nursing duties are completed with accuracy and efficiency. I am also committed to staying up-to-date on the latest evidence-based practices in order to provide the most effective care.

I take pride in being a team player and working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals. I understand the importance of communication and collaboration when it comes to providing quality care, so I make sure to stay open-minded and willing to learn from others. I’m also dedicated to continuing my education and expanding my knowledge base by attending conferences and seminars.”

8. Do you feel prepared for the physical demands of the job?

Nursing is a physically demanding job. Employers ask this question to make sure you are prepared for the physical demands of the role. Before your interview, read through the job description and highlight any physical requirements. Think about how your body can meet those requirements. If there are no physical requirements listed in the job description, think about what you would expect from the position.

Example: “Absolutely! I have been preparing for the physical demands of this job since before I even graduated nursing school. During my clinical rotations, I was able to gain experience in a variety of settings and learn how to provide safe and effective care while managing the physical demands of the job. In addition, I completed an extensive program on patient safety and infection control that has given me the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the safety of patients. Finally, I am physically fit and take pride in being able to handle the physical demands of the job.”

9. What would you do if you saw another nurse making a mistake?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and your ability to work with others. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation in which you helped another nurse or colleague improve their practice.

Example: “If I saw another nurse making a mistake, my first priority would be to ensure the patient’s safety. I would assess the situation and determine if the mistake had already been made or if it could still be prevented. If the mistake had already been made, I would document the incident thoroughly and report it to my supervisor in accordance with hospital policy.

I understand that mistakes can happen, so I would also approach the other nurse in a non-confrontational manner and offer assistance to help them correct their mistake. I believe in creating an environment of collaboration and support among nurses, so I would strive to provide constructive feedback and guidance to help the other nurse learn from their mistake and prevent similar errors in the future.”

10. How do you handle changes to the typical routine at work?

When working as a nurse, you may need to adapt quickly to changes in your routine. Employers ask this question to make sure that you can handle unexpected situations and still perform your job well. In your answer, explain how you stay organized and focused on the task at hand.

Example: “I understand that changes to the typical routine at work can be challenging, but I am comfortable with adapting and adjusting to new situations. When faced with a change in my daily routine, I take the time to assess the situation and determine how best to adjust. I always strive to remain flexible and open-minded so that I can quickly adapt to any changes that may arise.

In addition, I make sure to stay organized and focused on the task at hand. This helps me prioritize tasks and manage my workflow more efficiently. By staying organized, I am able to better handle unexpected changes or challenges that come up during the day. Finally, I also make sure to communicate effectively with my colleagues when changes occur, as this ensures everyone is on the same page and working together towards a common goal.”

11. What would you do if you were assigned to care for a patient you don’t like?

This question is designed to test your interpersonal skills and ability to work with a variety of patients. It also shows the interviewer how you handle conflict. Your answer should show that you can remain professional while still caring for the patient’s needs.

Example: “If I were assigned to care for a patient that I don’t like, I would approach the situation with professionalism and respect. First, I would take time to understand why I may not be fond of this particular patient. It could be something as simple as a difference in personalities or beliefs. Once I have identified the root cause of my dislike, I can then focus on providing the best possible care for the patient.

I believe it’s important to remember that even if I don’t personally like someone, they still deserve quality care and attention. As a New Grad Nurse, I am committed to upholding the highest standards of care and ensuring that all patients receive the same level of treatment regardless of their personality or beliefs. I will strive to remain professional and provide compassionate care while maintaining a positive attitude.”

12. How do you manage your time when caring for more than one patient at a time?

As a nurse, you may have to care for more than one patient at a time. Employers ask this question to make sure that you can multitask and prioritize your patients’ needs effectively. In your answer, explain how you plan your day so that you are able to give each patient the attention they need while also ensuring that all of their needs are met.

Example: “Time management is an essential skill for any nurse, especially when caring for multiple patients. I have developed a few strategies to help me manage my time efficiently and effectively when caring for more than one patient at a time.

The first step I take is to prioritize the needs of each patient. This helps me determine which tasks are most important and need to be completed first. Once I have identified these tasks, I create a plan of action that outlines what needs to be done and in what order. This ensures that all necessary tasks are completed in a timely manner.

I also make sure to stay organized by keeping track of all patient information in one place. This allows me to quickly access any relevant information needed for providing care. Finally, I am not afraid to ask for help if I feel overwhelmed or if I need assistance with completing certain tasks. By utilizing these strategies, I am able to provide quality care to all of my patients while managing my time effectively.”

13. Tell me about a time when you stepped up to fill a leadership role at work.

As a nurse, you may be asked to lead your team or other members of the hospital staff. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience with leadership and management. In your answer, explain what made you step up as a leader. Explain how you were able to successfully complete the task at hand.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to step up and fill a leadership role at my current job. I was working as a New Grad Nurse in a busy hospital, and one of our senior nurses was out on extended leave. As a result, I was asked to take over her duties for the duration of her absence.

I took this challenge head-on and quickly got to work. I worked closely with the other nurses on staff to ensure that all patient needs were met and that everyone was comfortable with their roles. I also held regular meetings with the team to discuss any issues or concerns they may have had. My efforts resulted in improved communication between the team members and an overall increase in efficiency.”

14. Have you ever had to deal with an angry or upset patient? How did you handle it?

Nurses often have to deal with challenging patients. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these situations effectively. In your answer, share a specific example of when you had to calm an upset patient. Explain what steps you took to help them feel more comfortable and cared for.

Example: “Yes, I have had to deal with an angry or upset patient before. In those situations, my priority is always to ensure the safety of both myself and the patient. To do this, I stay calm and professional while addressing the patient’s concerns. I also make sure to listen carefully and acknowledge their feelings without judgement. Once I understand what is causing the anger or distress, I work to find a solution that will be beneficial for both parties. For example, if the patient is upset about wait times, I can offer them resources such as magazines or books to help pass the time. Ultimately, I strive to create a positive environment where the patient feels heard and respected.”

15. What steps do you take to ensure accuracy when recording patient information?

Accuracy is an important quality for a nurse to have. It’s vital that you record information accurately and consistently, so the interviewer will want to know how you ensure accuracy in your work.

Example: “Accurately recording patient information is a critical part of being a nurse. To ensure accuracy, I take several steps when documenting patient information. First, I always double-check my work to make sure that all the details are correct and complete. This includes verifying any medications or treatments that have been prescribed and ensuring that they are accurately recorded in the patient’s chart. Secondly, I make sure to document any conversations with patients or their families so that there is an accurate record of what was discussed. Finally, I review the documentation with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that everyone is on the same page. By taking these steps, I can be confident that the patient’s records are up-to-date and accurate.”

16. What techniques do you use to make a patient feel comfortable?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills. They want to know how you can help patients feel calm and relaxed during their hospital stay. When answering, think of a specific example from your past experience that shows your ability to make others comfortable.

Example: “I believe that the most important part of being a nurse is creating an environment where patients feel comfortable and safe. To do this, I use several techniques.

The first technique I use is active listening. This involves really paying attention to what the patient is saying and responding in a way that shows them that their concerns are being heard. I also make sure to ask open-ended questions so that they can express themselves fully.

Another technique I use is providing reassurance. Patients often come into my care feeling anxious or scared, so it’s important for me to be able to provide comfort and support. I do this by offering words of encouragement and letting them know that I’m there to help them through whatever they’re going through.

Lastly, I always strive to create a positive atmosphere. I like to keep conversations upbeat and lighthearted when possible, as this helps to put the patient at ease. I also take time to get to know my patients on a personal level, which helps to build trust and rapport.”

17. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to provide exceptional care.

This question is a great way to show your interviewer that you are passionate about nursing and want to provide the best care possible for patients. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you went above and beyond to help a patient or family member.

Example: “Recently, I had a patient who was admitted to the hospital for an infection. During my shift, I noticed that they were having difficulty breathing and their oxygen saturation levels were dropping. I quickly assessed the situation and determined that they needed additional oxygen support.

I went above and beyond by taking initiative to contact the physician on call and request additional orders for oxygen therapy. Once the order was received, I administered the oxygen therapy and monitored the patient’s vital signs closely. As a result of my quick thinking and action, the patient’s condition improved significantly.

This experience showed me how important it is to be proactive in providing exceptional care. It also reinforced my commitment to always go the extra mile when caring for patients.”

18. How do you stay up to date with the latest trends in nursing?

Employers ask this question to see if you are passionate about your career and how much effort you put into staying up to date with the latest nursing trends. They want to know that you have a desire to learn more about your field, so show them that you read journals or attend conferences to keep yourself informed.

Example: “Staying up to date with the latest trends in nursing is important to me as a new grad nurse. I stay informed by attending conferences and seminars, reading professional journals, and networking with other nurses. I also take advantage of online resources such as webinars, podcasts, and blogs that discuss current topics related to nursing. By staying informed on the latest developments, I am able to provide my patients with the best possible care. Furthermore, I am always open to learning from experienced colleagues who can share their knowledge and experiences. Finally, I make sure to keep abreast of any changes in regulations or policies that may affect my practice. This ensures that I am providing safe and effective care for my patients.”

19. What strategies do you use to help patients understand their treatment options?

As a nurse, you may need to explain treatment options to patients. This question helps employers understand how you communicate with patients and their families. Use your answer to highlight your communication skills and empathy for others.

Example: “When helping patients understand their treatment options, I use a variety of strategies. First and foremost, I ensure that I am providing clear and concise communication to the patient so they can easily comprehend what is being discussed. I also make sure to explain any medical terms in layman’s terms so the patient can better understand.

I also like to provide visual aids such as diagrams or charts when talking about complex treatments. This helps the patient to visualize the different steps involved in the process and makes it easier for them to remember. Finally, I always take time to answer any questions the patient may have and provide additional resources if needed. By taking these steps, I am able to help my patients feel more informed and empowered when making decisions about their health care.”

20. If a patient refuses care, how would you handle the situation?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and difficult situations. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of when this happened in your past experience as a nurse.

Example: “If a patient refuses care, I would first take the time to understand why they are refusing. It is important to listen and empathize with the patient’s concerns in order to build trust and rapport. Once I have an understanding of their reasons for refusal, I can then assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Depending on the situation, I may suggest alternative treatments or provide additional information that could help them make an informed decision. If the patient still refuses care, I will document the incident and report it to my supervisor so that appropriate measures can be taken. Above all, I believe it is essential to respect the patient’s autonomy and ensure that their wishes are respected.”

21. Describe a time when you collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide quality care.

When answering this question, it can be beneficial to highlight your interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team. You may also want to mention how you used your communication skills to resolve any challenges that arose during the process.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals while working as a New Grad Nurse. During this time, I was responsible for providing quality care to a patient who had multiple chronic conditions. To ensure that the patient received the best possible care, I worked closely with the primary physician, physical therapist, dietician, and pharmacist to create an individualized treatment plan.

We all met together to discuss the patient’s needs and develop a comprehensive plan of care. We discussed the patient’s medical history, current medications, dietary restrictions, and any potential complications that could arise from their condition. After we agreed on a plan of action, I implemented it in my practice. I monitored the patient’s progress daily and reported back to the team regularly.”

22. Do you have any experience working with different types of medical equipment?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with the equipment they use in their facility. If you do, share your experiences and how well you worked with the equipment. If you don’t have any experience, you can talk about what types of medical equipment you’re familiar with and how you would learn to work them if hired.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with different types of medical equipment. During my clinical rotations in nursing school, I was exposed to a variety of medical equipment and learned how to use them safely and effectively. I also had the opportunity to practice using some of the more advanced pieces of equipment, such as ventilators and infusion pumps. In addition, I am familiar with the most common types of medical equipment used in hospitals, including EKG machines, IV pumps, and patient monitors. Finally, I understand the importance of properly maintaining and troubleshooting medical equipment to ensure that it is functioning correctly.”

23. Are you comfortable carrying out doctor’s orders without asking questions?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to work independently and respectfully. It’s important to be able to follow the orders of a doctor or senior nurse, but it’s also vital that you can do so without hesitation. When answering this question, make sure to emphasize how much you value the expertise of doctors and other medical professionals.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable carrying out doctor’s orders without asking questions. As a new grad nurse, I understand the importance of following instructions and protocols accurately to ensure that patients receive the best care possible. I have been trained in evidence-based practice and understand how important it is to follow guidelines set by physicians.

At my previous job, I was able to demonstrate my ability to carry out physician orders with accuracy and efficiency. I worked closely with doctors to ensure that all patient treatments were carried out according to their wishes. I also made sure to document any changes or adjustments to treatment plans so that everyone involved was kept up to date on the patient’s progress.”

24. What safety protocols do you follow when administering medications?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of safety protocols and ensure that you follow them. This is because safe practices are an important part of nursing, so it’s vital that new nurses know how to administer medications safely. In your answer, explain the steps you take when administering medications to patients.

Example: “Safety protocols are of the utmost importance when administering medications. I always make sure to double check the patient’s name, medication name, dosage and route before administering any medications. I also ensure that the expiration date has not passed on any medications and that they have been stored properly. In addition, I always follow my facility’s policies regarding the administration of medications and document all information in the patient’s chart accurately and thoroughly. Finally, I am aware of the potential side effects of each medication and can recognize signs of an allergic reaction or adverse effect quickly.

I understand how important it is to adhere to safety protocols when administering medications and take this responsibility very seriously.”

25. Are there any areas of nursing that you find particularly challenging?

Interviewers ask this question to determine if you have the ability to overcome challenges and learn from them. They want to know that you can adapt to new situations, so it’s important to highlight your problem-solving skills in your answer.

Example: “Yes, there are a few areas of nursing that I find particularly challenging. One is working with patients who have complex medical conditions and require specialized care. As a new grad nurse, it can be difficult to understand the complexities of these cases and provide the best possible care for them. Another area I find challenging is managing multiple tasks at once. With so many different responsibilities as a nurse, it can be hard to prioritize and stay organized. Finally, I find it difficult to stay up-to-date on all the latest developments in healthcare technology. Keeping abreast of the newest treatments and technologies requires dedication and effort, but I am committed to doing my best to stay informed.”