25 Nurse Assistant Interview Questions and Answers

A nurse assistant is an important member of the nursing team and provides basic care to patients under the direction of a registered nurse. Nurse assistants work in a variety of health care settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.

To work as a nurse assistant, you must complete a nurse assistant program and pass a certification exam. Nurse assistant interview questions will vary depending on the position you are interviewing for, but will likely include questions about your experience, training, and the care you have provided to patients.

In this guide, you will find sample nurse assistant interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you certified as a nurse assistant?

If the position requires certification, an employer may ask this question to see if you have it. If you are certified, they might also want to know what your certification is and when you received it. If you aren’t certified, you can explain why not and mention any other certifications or training you have that relate to the job.

Example: “Yes, I am certified as a Nurse Assistant. I have been working in the field for over five years and have obtained my certification through an accredited program. During this time, I have gained valuable experience providing quality care to patients of all ages and backgrounds. My duties included taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, administering medications, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.

I take pride in my work and strive to provide the highest level of patient care possible. I am organized, detail-oriented, and able to multi-task effectively. I also possess excellent communication skills and can easily build relationships with both patients and colleagues.”

2. What are your qualifications as a nurse assistant?

This question is an opportunity to highlight your education and experience as a nurse assistant. You can include any certifications you have, the length of time you’ve been working in this role or other relevant information that shows why you’re qualified for this position.

Example: “I have been a nurse assistant for the past five years and I am confident that my qualifications make me an ideal candidate for this position. My experience includes providing direct patient care in a variety of settings, including long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home health agencies. During my time as a nurse assistant, I have developed strong communication skills which allow me to effectively interact with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.

In addition to my clinical experience, I also possess certifications from the American Association of Nurse Assistants (AANA) and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). These certifications demonstrate my commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on best practices in nursing. Finally, I am CPR certified and have completed additional training courses related to infection control, medical terminology, and medication administration.”

3. How would you describe your personality?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person. They may want to see if your personality is a good fit for their hospital or clinic. You can answer this question by describing yourself in three words and giving an example of how these traits have helped you succeed in previous roles.

Example: “I would describe my personality as a mix of being organized, reliable, and compassionate. I am very detail-oriented and take pride in ensuring that all tasks are completed accurately and on time. I’m also an excellent communicator and have the ability to work well with others. My compassion for patients is something that sets me apart from other Nurse Assistants. I understand how difficult it can be for patients to go through medical procedures and strive to make them feel comfortable throughout their experience. I believe these qualities make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

4. What is your greatest strength as a nurse assistant?

This question is an opportunity to highlight your skills and abilities that make you a strong candidate for the role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about which of your skills are most important in the role. You may also want to consider what the hiring manager might value when looking at candidates.

Example: “As a Nurse Assistant, I believe my greatest strength is my ability to provide compassionate care. I understand the importance of creating an environment that is both comfortable and supportive for patients and their families. My experience has taught me how to effectively communicate with patients and their families in order to ensure they receive the best possible care.

I also have excellent organizational skills which allow me to stay on top of tasks and prioritize patient needs. I am very detail-oriented and take pride in ensuring that all paperwork is completed accurately and timely. Finally, I am passionate about continuing my education and staying up to date on the latest developments in healthcare. This allows me to provide the highest quality of care to my patients.”

5. Provide an example of when you utilized your communication skills as a nurse assistant to resolve an issue.

Communication skills are an important part of being a nurse assistant. You must be able to communicate with patients and other medical professionals in order to provide quality care. Employers ask this question to make sure you have strong communication skills. In your answer, explain how you used your communication skills to resolve the issue.

Example: “As a nurse assistant, communication is an essential part of my job. One example of when I utilized my communication skills to resolve an issue was during a shift at my previous employer. A patient had become agitated and uncooperative with the staff due to their pain levels. After assessing the situation, I calmly spoke to the patient and asked them what we could do to make them more comfortable.

I listened carefully to their response and then communicated this to the rest of the team. We were able to come up with a plan that included administering medication for pain relief as well as providing additional comfort measures such as extra pillows or blankets. Through effective communication, we were able to successfully address the patient’s needs and provide them with the care they needed. This experience demonstrated my ability to effectively communicate with patients and other healthcare professionals in order to ensure the best possible outcome.”

6. If a patient was hostile toward you, how would you handle the situation?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to handle challenging situations. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you can remain calm under pressure and use your communication skills to diffuse a situation.

Example: “If a patient was hostile toward me, I would remain calm and professional. First, I would take a few moments to assess the situation and try to understand why the patient is feeling this way. Then, I would approach them in a non-confrontational manner and explain that I am here to help. I would be sure to listen attentively to their concerns and answer any questions they may have.

I believe it is important to show empathy in these types of situations, as well as respect for the patient’s feelings. If necessary, I would involve other healthcare professionals or family members to help deescalate the situation. Ultimately, my goal would be to ensure the patient feels heard and respected while also providing the best possible care.”

7. What would you do if you noticed another nurse assistant was struggling with a patient?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to handle conflict. In your answer, try to show that you value teamwork and are willing to offer assistance when needed.

Example: “If I noticed that another nurse assistant was struggling with a patient, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of both the patient and the other nurse assistant. I would approach the situation calmly and assess what is needed in order to provide the best care for the patient. Depending on the situation, I could offer assistance or advice to the other nurse assistant. If the situation requires more help than I can provide, I would alert the supervising nurse so they can take appropriate action.

My experience as a Nurse Assistant has taught me how to handle difficult situations with patience and understanding. I understand the importance of providing quality care to patients while also ensuring the safety of everyone involved. I am confident that I have the skills necessary to handle any situation that may arise.”

8. How well do you handle stress? Can you provide an example of a time when you remained calm under pressure?

Nurses and nurse assistants often work in high-stress environments. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the pressure of working with patients who are sick or injured. When answering, try to focus on your ability to remain calm under pressure. Explain that you have strategies for managing stress. Share a specific example from your past experience if possible.

Example: “I understand the importance of remaining calm under pressure, especially when working in a healthcare setting. I have had to handle stressful situations many times throughout my career as a Nurse Assistant. For example, during one shift at my previous job, I was assigned to care for an elderly patient who was experiencing severe pain. Despite the high-pressure situation, I remained composed and focused on providing the best possible care for the patient. I quickly assessed the situation and developed a plan of action that included administering medication and providing comfort measures. My quick thinking and ability to remain calm allowed me to provide the patient with the necessary care they needed.”

9. Do you have experience administering medications? What methods do you use to ensure patients receive the correct dosage?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your experience with administering medications and how you ensure patients receive the correct dosage. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your skills in handling medication administration, including any training or certifications you have that support your ability to administer medications.

Example: “Yes, I have experience administering medications. I understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to medication administration and take extra care to ensure that patients receive the correct dosage. My method for ensuring this is to double check all labels on the medications before administering them. This includes verifying the name of the patient, the drug name, strength, dosage form, route of administration, and expiration date. I also make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them exactly as written. Finally, I always document any medication administered in the patient’s chart. By following these steps, I am confident that I can provide safe and accurate medication administration.”

10. When performing bed baths, what is the appropriate amount of time to spend on each area of the body?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your knowledge of proper hygiene procedures. It also helps them determine how much time you might need to spend on each patient during your shift. In your answer, provide specific details about what areas you would wash and how long it takes you to complete this task.

Example: “When performing bed baths, it is important to take the appropriate amount of time on each area of the body. Generally speaking, I spend about two minutes per area for a full-body bath. This includes washing the face, neck and ears, chest and arms, back and abdomen, legs, feet and toes. During this process, I ensure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned with soap and warm water.

I also pay special attention to any areas that may be prone to skin breakdown or infection such as the groin, buttocks, and underarms. For these areas, I use extra caution to make sure they are properly washed and dried. Furthermore, I always check for any signs of redness, irritation, or other skin issues that need to be addressed.”

11. We want to improve our patient’s experience. What would you do to make our patients feel more comfortable?

This question is an opportunity to show your interpersonal skills and ability to make patients feel comfortable. You can use this question to demonstrate how you would interact with patients, their families and other members of the healthcare team.

Example: “I understand that providing a comfortable experience for patients is essential to their care. As a Nurse Assistant, I would focus on creating an environment of trust and respect with each patient. This could include taking the time to get to know them and addressing any concerns they may have in a compassionate manner. I believe it’s important to listen carefully to what patients are saying so that I can provide appropriate support.

In addition, I would strive to ensure that all procedures are explained clearly and that any questions or worries are addressed promptly. It’s also important to be aware of the individual needs of each patient and to tailor my approach accordingly. For example, if a patient has difficulty understanding instructions, I would take extra time to explain things in a way they can easily comprehend. Finally, I would always make sure to maintain a positive attitude and show genuine interest in each patient’s wellbeing.”

12. Describe your experience with feeding tubes. Are you comfortable inserting and removing them?

This question is a great way to determine how much experience you have with the job duties. If you’re interviewing for an entry-level position, it’s likely that your responsibilities will include inserting and removing feeding tubes. However, if you’re applying for a more senior role, you may be expected to help train new employees on this task.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable inserting and removing feeding tubes. I have extensive experience with this task as a Nurse Assistant. During my past positions, I was responsible for providing assistance to nurses in the insertion and removal of feeding tubes. This included preparing the patient for the procedure, ensuring that all necessary supplies were available, and monitoring the patient during the process.

I also had the opportunity to learn from experienced nurses on how to properly insert and remove feeding tubes. I learned about the different types of tubes and their uses, as well as the importance of proper technique when handling them. I understand the potential risks associated with these procedures and take every precaution to ensure safety.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can help them with their hiring process. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your soft skills such as communication, teamwork and empathy.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my extensive experience as a Nurse Assistant. In my current role, I have been providing quality patient care and assisting nurses with various tasks for over five years. During that time, I have developed strong communication skills and an understanding of medical terminology, which allows me to effectively communicate with patients and other healthcare professionals.

In addition, I am highly organized and detail-oriented. I always strive to ensure that all tasks are completed accurately and on time. My ability to multitask and prioritize efficiently has allowed me to provide excellent patient care in a timely manner. Finally, I am passionate about helping others and dedicated to providing compassionate care to those in need. This commitment to excellence is something I bring to every job and will continue to do so if given the opportunity.”

14. Which nursing techniques do you prefer to use when caring for patients?

This question can help interviewers understand your nursing style and how you interact with patients. It can also give them insight into which skills you’ve developed over time. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few techniques that you enjoy using and why.

Example: “I prefer to use a holistic approach when caring for patients. This involves taking into account the physical, mental, and emotional needs of each patient. I believe that this is important in order to provide comprehensive care.

When it comes to specific nursing techniques, I am comfortable with administering medications, monitoring vital signs, providing wound care, and assisting with activities of daily living. I also have experience with more advanced skills such as catheter insertion, IV therapy, and respiratory treatments.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being a nurse assistant?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what it means to be a nurse assistant. It also gives them insight into your values and priorities as a healthcare professional. When answering this question, consider which aspects of being a nurse assistant are most important to you personally. Consider highlighting one or two specific qualities in your answer.

Example: “As a nurse assistant, I believe the most important aspect is providing quality patient care. This involves being attentive to patients’ needs and ensuring that their medical and emotional needs are met. It also requires having excellent communication skills so that you can effectively communicate with other healthcare professionals in order to provide the best possible care for your patients. Furthermore, it is essential to be organized and efficient when performing tasks such as taking vital signs or administering medications. Finally, it is important to have empathy and compassion for your patients, as this will help create a positive environment and ensure they receive the highest level of care.”

16. How often do you perform personal hygiene checks for patients?

This question can help interviewers understand how you prioritize your time and the importance of personal hygiene checks. When answering, it can be helpful to mention that you perform these checks at least once a day or as often as necessary for each patient.

Example: “As a Nurse Assistant, I understand the importance of performing personal hygiene checks for patients. I always ensure that I am checking in on my patients regularly and providing them with the necessary assistance they need to maintain their personal hygiene. Depending on the patient’s needs, I will check in on them at least once per shift or more often if needed. During these checks, I make sure to assess the patient’s overall hygiene, including their hair, nails, teeth, skin, and clothing. If any issues are identified, I document it and report it to the nurse in charge so that appropriate action can be taken. My goal is to provide the highest quality care possible and ensure that each patient feels comfortable and well cared for.”

17. There is a high volume of patients and your shift leader is unavailable. What would you do to stay focused and complete your duties?

This question is an opportunity to show your ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you had to multitask or complete a task without the help of a supervisor.

Example: “Staying focused and completing my duties when the shift leader is unavailable is something I take very seriously. As a Nurse Assistant, it’s important to stay organized and prioritize tasks in order to ensure that all patients receive the care they need.

If there is a high volume of patients, I would start by assessing each patient’s needs and creating an individual plan for them. This will help me stay on top of their care and make sure nothing falls through the cracks. I also like to break down larger tasks into smaller ones so that I can focus on one task at a time.

I’m also aware of the importance of communication with other staff members. If the shift leader is unavailable, I would reach out to colleagues who may be able to provide assistance or guidance. Finally, I always try to remain calm and positive during times of stress. This helps me stay focused and complete my duties efficiently.”

18. What challenges have you faced as a nurse assistant and how did you overcome them?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you respond to challenges and whether you have any unique experiences that could benefit your new employer. When answering this question, it can be helpful to focus on a specific challenge you faced and describe what steps you took to overcome it.

Example: “As a Nurse Assistant, I have faced many challenges. One of the most difficult was learning to effectively communicate with patients and their families in order to provide the best care possible. To overcome this challenge, I took courses on communication skills and worked closely with my supervisors to ensure that I was providing the highest quality of care.

Another challenge I faced was managing multiple tasks at once. In order to overcome this, I developed an organized system for prioritizing tasks and ensuring that all tasks were completed in a timely manner. This allowed me to remain focused and efficient while still providing excellent patient care.”

19. Describe your experience with wound care. How do you ensure proper healing?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your experience with wound care and how you apply it in the workplace. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your knowledge of proper wound care, including how you identify wounds and treat them.

Example: “I have extensive experience with wound care and am confident in my ability to provide quality care. I have worked as a Nurse Assistant for the past three years, during which time I have become highly proficient in all aspects of wound care.

When it comes to ensuring proper healing, I take a holistic approach that involves assessing the patient’s overall health and environment. This includes evaluating their diet, activity level, and any medications they may be taking. I also assess the wound itself, making sure that it is properly cleaned and dressed. Finally, I monitor the wound closely over time to ensure that it is healing properly. If there are any signs of infection or delayed healing, I will take appropriate action to address the issue.”

20. Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult patient or family member.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenging situations. It’s important to show that you’re willing to work with all types of people and remain positive in the face of adversity.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to work with a difficult patient and their family. The patient was elderly, and they were experiencing some cognitive decline that made it difficult for them to communicate clearly. This caused frustration on both sides of the conversation as the patient’s family members tried to understand what the patient wanted or needed.

In this situation, I worked hard to remain calm and understanding. I took extra time to listen to the patient and their family, repeating back my understanding of the situation in order to ensure we were all on the same page. I also used empathy to show that I understood how challenging the situation must be for them.

Ultimately, I was able to build trust with the patient and their family, which allowed us to find solutions together. My ability to stay composed and compassionate helped create an environment where everyone felt heard and respected, resulting in a positive outcome for all involved.”

21. Do you have any experience working in long-term care facilities?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level and how you might fit in with their team. If you have previous experience working as a nurse assistant, describe what made it successful for you. If you don’t have any experience, consider describing the type of care facility you would like to work in.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working in long-term care facilities. I worked as a Nurse Assistant for two years at an assisted living facility where I provided direct patient care and support to elderly residents. During my time there, I gained valuable knowledge of the unique needs of this population and how best to provide them with compassionate care.

I am experienced in providing assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, and transferring patients. I also have experience administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and documenting patient information. My excellent communication skills allow me to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals and ensure that all patients receive the highest quality of care.”

22. Are you comfortable assisting patients with mobility issues?

This question can help interviewers determine if you have experience working with patients who need assistance. If you don’t have any experience, it’s important to show that you’re willing to learn and develop the skills needed for this role.

Example: “Yes, I am comfortable assisting patients with mobility issues. In my current role as a Nurse Assistant, I have had the opportunity to work with many different types of patients who require assistance with their mobility. I understand that this can be an uncomfortable situation for both the patient and myself, so I always take the time to explain what I’m doing and why it’s important. I also make sure to ask the patient if they are comfortable before proceeding.

I am confident in my ability to provide safe and effective care to those with mobility issues. I am familiar with various techniques such as transferring, ambulating, and positioning, and I know how to use appropriate equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers. I am also aware of the importance of monitoring the patient’s condition during these activities and making adjustments as needed.”

23. Describe your experience with end of life care.

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your experience with death and dying. It’s important that you have some experience in this area, but it’s also helpful if you can describe how you handled the situation.

Example: “I have extensive experience providing end of life care to patients and their families. During my time as a Nurse Assistant, I have had the opportunity to work with many individuals who were nearing the end of their lives. My role in these situations was to provide comfort and support for both the patient and their family members. This included helping them understand what to expect during this difficult time, providing emotional support, and helping them make decisions about medical treatments or other matters.

In addition, I also assisted with basic nursing care such as bathing, dressing, and feeding. I am comfortable dealing with sensitive topics and strive to ensure that all parties involved are treated with respect and dignity. I believe that it is important to be compassionate and understanding when working with those facing the end of their lives. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to help people through this difficult period in their lives.”

24. What would you do if you noticed a discrepancy between the charted information and the actual patient’s condition?

This question is a great way to assess your critical thinking skills and ability to follow protocols. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of how you would handle the situation in a positive manner.

Example: “If I noticed a discrepancy between the charted information and the actual patient’s condition, my first priority would be to ensure that the patient is safe. I would then take steps to correct any inaccuracies in the charting by speaking with the nurse or doctor responsible for the patient’s care. I would also document the discrepancies and make sure all relevant parties are aware of them. Finally, I would work with the healthcare team to develop an action plan to address the issue and prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.

My experience as a Nurse Assistant has taught me how important it is to pay attention to detail and act quickly when discrepancies arise. I have developed excellent communication skills which allow me to effectively communicate with other members of the healthcare team. My dedication to providing quality patient care makes me the perfect candidate for this position.”

25. How do you stay up to date on medical advancements and procedures?

As a nurse assistant, you need to be familiar with the latest medical advancements and procedures. Employers ask this question to make sure that you are committed to your career and want to learn more about how to provide quality care for their patients. Show them that you have an interest in learning new things by sharing some ways you stay up to date on medical news.

Example: “Staying up to date on medical advancements and procedures is essential for any Nurse Assistant. I make sure to stay informed by reading professional journals, attending conferences, and participating in continuing education courses. I also keep an eye out for new developments in the field of nursing by following industry news sources online. By staying abreast of the latest trends and techniques, I am able to provide my patients with the best possible care.

I have a passion for learning, so I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge base. For example, I recently completed a course on advanced patient assessment and documentation. This has enabled me to better understand the needs of my patients and develop more effective treatment plans.”