25 Nurse Extern Interview Questions and Answers

Registered nurses are in high demand in the United States, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting that the number of jobs in the field will grow by 16 percent through 2026. That’s why nurse externships are so important: They give students the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work as a nurse and to decide if nursing is the right career for them.

If you’re applying for a nurse externship, you’ll likely need to go through a job interview. To help you prepare, we’ve put together a list of nurse extern interview questions and answers. You’ll find questions and answers for both entry-level and experienced nurse externs.

1. Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?

When working as an extern, you may be required to work in a fast-paced environment. Employers ask this question to make sure that you are comfortable with the pace of their hospital and can keep up with the workload. In your answer, explain how you stay organized and prioritize tasks. Show them that you have what it takes to succeed in a high-pressure situation.

Example: “Absolutely! I thrive in fast-paced environments. During my clinical rotations, I was able to quickly learn and adapt to new situations while providing quality care for patients. I am comfortable working independently as well as collaboratively with other healthcare team members. My experience has taught me how to prioritize tasks and remain organized even when the environment is hectic. I understand that being a Nurse Extern requires flexibility and I am confident that I can handle any situation that may arise.”

2. What are some of the most important qualities for a nurse extern to have?

This question can help interviewers determine if you have the qualities they look for in a nurse extern. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of the skills and traits that are listed on your resume or application.

Example: “I believe that the most important qualities for a nurse extern to have are strong communication skills, an eagerness to learn, and excellent problem-solving abilities.

Communication is key in any healthcare setting. As a nurse extern, I understand the importance of being able to effectively communicate with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. I am confident in my ability to listen carefully and explain complex medical information in a way that is easy to understand.

In addition, I am excited to take on new challenges and expand my knowledge as a nurse extern. I am always looking for ways to improve my practice and stay up-to-date on the latest advances in healthcare. I am open to feedback from colleagues and strive to continuously develop my skillset.

Lastly, I possess strong problem-solving skills which allow me to think critically and make sound decisions quickly. In my current role, I have had to handle difficult situations with grace and poise. I am confident that I can bring this same level of professionalism to your team.”

3. How would you handle a situation where you disagree with a member of the nursing team?

As a nurse extern, you may work with other nurses and medical professionals. Employers ask this question to make sure you can collaborate well with others. Show them that you can respectfully disagree with someone while still maintaining a positive relationship. Explain how you would try to find common ground or compromise.

Example: “If I ever found myself in a situation where I disagreed with a member of the nursing team, my first step would be to communicate openly and respectfully. I believe that it is important to maintain professional relationships, so I would make sure to express my opinion in a way that does not come across as confrontational or disrespectful.

I also think it is important to listen to the other person’s point of view and understand why they feel the way they do. This will help me gain insight into their perspective and potentially reach a compromise. If we are still unable to agree on a solution, then I would suggest taking the issue up with a supervisor for further guidance. Ultimately, I strive to work together with my colleagues to find the best possible outcome for our patients.”

4. What is your experience with administering medications?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you have the skills and experience necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to list a few of the medications you’ve administered in previous roles and how often you did so.

Example: “I have extensive experience administering medications. During my clinical rotations, I was responsible for preparing and administering medications to patients in a variety of settings. This included oral, topical, and injectable medications. I am well-versed in the five rights of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, and right time.

In addition, I understand the importance of double-checking orders before administering any medication. I also take great care to ensure that the patient is aware of potential side effects or adverse reactions. Finally, I am familiar with documentation requirements related to medication administration and always make sure to document accurately and completely.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to help a patient and their family communicate effectively.

As a nurse, you may be responsible for helping patients and their families communicate with each other. This can include explaining medical procedures to family members or translating information from one language to another. Interviewers want to know that you have the communication skills necessary to help people understand complex medical information.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to help a patient and their family communicate effectively. The patient was an elderly man who had been admitted for surgery. His family was concerned about his care, but he was unable to express himself due to his age and condition. I took the time to sit down with the family and explain what would be happening during the procedure, as well as any potential risks or complications that could arise. I also answered any questions they had in order to ensure they felt comfortable and informed.

In addition, I provided emotional support to both the patient and the family throughout the process. I encouraged them to talk openly and honestly about their concerns, and I made sure to listen carefully to each of their perspectives. This allowed us to come up with a plan that addressed everyone’s needs and ensured the best possible outcome for the patient. Ultimately, my efforts helped to foster a better understanding between the patient and their family, which resulted in improved communication and a successful recovery.”

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

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills. They want to know how you would react in a challenging situation and whether you have the ability to diffuse it. In your answer, try to show that you can remain calm under pressure and use your communication skills to resolve the situation.

Example: “If a patient was hostile toward me, I would remain professional and courteous. I understand that patients may be frustrated or upset due to their health condition and it is important to show empathy and understanding. First, I would try to identify the root cause of the hostility and address it in a respectful manner. If necessary, I would involve other healthcare professionals such as doctors or nurses to help de-escalate the situation. I believe communication is key when dealing with difficult situations, so I would ensure that all parties involved are heard and respected. Finally, I would document the incident for future reference.”

7. What would you do if you were assigned a patient you had no experience with?

This question can help interviewers understand how you adapt to new situations and challenges. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you had to learn something quickly or develop skills in a short amount of time.

Example: “If I were assigned a patient that I had no experience with, the first thing I would do is take the time to get to know them. This includes asking questions about their medical history and current condition, as well as learning more about their personal preferences and lifestyle. Once I have an understanding of who they are, I can then use my knowledge of nursing practices to develop a plan for care tailored to their individual needs.

I am also comfortable reaching out to other healthcare professionals if needed. For example, if I was unsure of how to best manage a particular symptom or situation, I would consult with a physician or specialist in order to ensure that I am providing the highest quality of care possible. Finally, I would stay up-to-date on any new treatments or medications that may be beneficial to the patient.”

8. How well do you perform under pressure?

Externs often work in high-pressure situations, such as when a patient is experiencing an emergency. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle pressure well and perform your job effectively under these circumstances. In your answer, explain that you are able to stay calm and focused even when the situation becomes intense. Show them that you have experience working in stressful environments and how you use your skills to remain composed.

Example: “I am well-equipped to handle pressure in the workplace. I have a great deal of experience working in high-pressure environments, and I understand how important it is to remain calm and focused when faced with challenging situations. In my current role as a Nurse Extern, I have had to make quick decisions under tight deadlines and manage multiple tasks at once. I have also been able to stay organized and prioritize effectively while still maintaining excellent patient care.”

9. Do you have experience working with patients who have dementia or other cognitive impairments?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your experience working with patients who have special needs. They want to know if you can adapt to their unique needs and how you will support them in the workplace. In your answer, try to highlight any specific skills or techniques that helped you work with these types of patients.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with patients who have dementia or other cognitive impairments. During my clinical rotations in nursing school, I had the opportunity to work closely with a number of elderly patients who were living with dementia and other cognitive impairments. I was able to gain valuable insight into how to provide compassionate care for these individuals while also ensuring their safety and well-being. I understand that it can be challenging to communicate effectively with someone who has difficulty understanding what is being said, so I took extra time to ensure that all instructions were clear and concise. I also made sure to take cues from the patient’s body language and behavior to determine if they needed additional assistance or support.”

10. When is it appropriate to seek outside help for a patient?

As a nurse extern, you may be working with patients who have complex medical needs. Employers ask this question to make sure that you know when it’s appropriate to seek help from your supervisor or other members of the healthcare team. In your answer, explain what factors you consider before asking for assistance.

Example: “When caring for a patient, it is important to recognize when outside help may be necessary. As a Nurse Extern, I understand the importance of providing quality care and ensuring that my patients receive the best possible treatment. When faced with a situation where further assistance may be needed, I am comfortable seeking out additional resources. This could include consulting with other healthcare professionals, such as specialists or pharmacists, or referring a patient to an appropriate support system. It is also important to consider any cultural or religious beliefs that may impact the patient’s care plan. In these cases, I will work closely with the patient and their family to ensure that all needs are met. Ultimately, my goal is to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to each patient I encounter.”

11. We want to improve our communication with patients and their families. How would you go about doing that?

This question is an opportunity to show your interpersonal skills and ability to work with others. It also shows the interviewer how you can help improve their organization’s processes. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific example of how you helped improve communication in a previous role.

Example: “I believe that communication is the key to providing excellent patient care. As a Nurse Extern, I would strive to create an open and honest dialogue with patients and their families. This includes actively listening to their concerns and questions, as well as providing clear and concise information about diagnosis, treatment plans, and any other relevant topics.

In addition, I would make sure to provide resources for additional support or education if needed. For example, I could refer them to online resources, brochures, or even local support groups. By doing this, I can ensure that they have all of the necessary information to make informed decisions regarding their health.”

12. Describe your process for completing a thorough check of a patient.

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your ability to perform a thorough assessment of patients. Use examples from previous experiences that highlight your attention to detail and your ability to work quickly under pressure.

Example: “My process for completing a thorough check of a patient begins with gathering all the necessary information. I make sure to review their medical history, current medications, and any recent lab results. After that, I assess the patient’s vital signs such as temperature, pulse, respiration rate, and blood pressure. I also perform a physical examination to look for any abnormalities or changes in the patient’s condition. Finally, I take time to listen to the patient’s concerns and answer any questions they may have.

I understand how important it is to provide quality care to patients, so I always strive to be thorough when conducting my assessments. My attention to detail ensures that no aspect of the patient’s health is overlooked. I am confident that my experience and dedication to providing excellent patient care makes me an ideal candidate for this Nurse Extern position.”

13. What makes you stand out from other nurse externs?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you can contribute to their team. They want to know what makes you unique, so share a few of your best qualities that relate to the role. You might talk about your communication skills or ability to work under pressure.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me stand out from other nurse externs. I have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, as well as two years of experience working with patients in an acute care setting. My time in this role has given me the opportunity to develop strong clinical skills, including assessment and diagnosis, charting, medication administration, and patient education.

In addition, I am passionate about providing quality care and helping others. I strive to build relationships with my patients, creating a safe and comfortable environment for them while they are receiving treatment. I also take pride in staying up-to-date on the latest medical advances and protocols, so that I can provide the best possible care to each individual.”

14. Which nursing specialty interests you the most?

Interviewers may ask this question to determine if you have a specialty in mind. They want to make sure that the position aligns with your interests and career goals. When answering, be honest about what you are most passionate about. If you don’t know which specialty is right for you, consider talking about some of the ones you’re interested in learning more about.

Example: “I am most interested in the specialty of critical care nursing. I have always been drawn to this field because it is fast-paced and requires a high level of knowledge and skill. As an experienced Nurse Extern, I understand the importance of providing quality care to critically ill patients. I am passionate about helping those who are facing life-threatening illnesses or injuries, and I believe that my experience and dedication make me an ideal candidate for this position.

In addition to my interest in critical care nursing, I also have experience with other specialties such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health. This has allowed me to gain a broad understanding of patient care needs and how to best meet them. My ability to quickly assess situations and respond appropriately makes me well-suited for any nursing specialty.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing for a nurse extern to learn during their externship?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you have a strong understanding of what it takes to be a nurse. You can answer this question by explaining what you’ve learned during your externship and how those lessons will help you succeed as a registered nurse.

Example: “I believe the most important thing for a nurse extern to learn during their externship is how to provide quality patient care. As a nurse extern, I understand that it’s my responsibility to ensure that patients receive safe and effective care. To do this, I need to develop strong communication skills with both patients and other healthcare professionals. This includes being able to listen attentively to patient concerns and questions, as well as effectively communicating instructions and information to them.

In addition, I think it’s essential for a nurse extern to gain an understanding of the overall healthcare system. This means learning about different types of treatments, medications, and procedures so that I can make informed decisions when caring for patients. Finally, I believe it’s important for a nurse extern to become familiar with the policies and protocols of the facility they are working in. By doing so, I can ensure that I am providing the highest quality of care possible.”

16. How often do you think a nurse extern should update their skills and knowledge?

This question can help interviewers understand how you approach your career and the importance of continuing to learn. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific time when you improved your skills or knowledge in nursing.

Example: “As a nurse extern, I believe it is essential to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in nursing. This includes attending conferences and seminars, reading professional journals, and networking with other nurses. In addition, I think that taking continuing education courses is an important part of staying current in the field. It is also beneficial to participate in research projects or shadow experienced nurses to gain new skills and knowledge. Finally, I believe that engaging in self-reflection and reflection with colleagues can be helpful for understanding how to best apply my knowledge and skills in practice. All of these activities are necessary to ensure that I am providing safe and effective care to my patients.”

17. There is a nurse on staff who is giving you bad advice. How do you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work with others. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you had to handle a conflict or disagreement with another nurse.

Example: “When I am presented with a situation where someone is giving me bad advice, my first step is to assess the situation. I need to understand why they are providing this advice and if it could be beneficial in any way. If not, then I would politely explain why their advice may not be the best option for the current situation.

I also believe in open communication and collaboration. Therefore, I would take the time to discuss the issue further with the nurse and try to come up with an alternative solution that works better for everyone involved. This allows us to work together as a team and ensure we are providing the best care possible for our patients.”

18. What steps do you take to ensure patient safety?

This question can help interviewers understand your commitment to patient safety. It is important for nurses to follow protocols and procedures that ensure the well-being of their patients. When answering this question, you can list steps you take to keep patients safe. You can also mention any certifications or training you have received in regards to patient safety.

Example: “Patient safety is of the utmost importance to me as a Nurse Extern. I take several steps to ensure that my patients are safe and secure in their care.

The first step I take is to always follow hospital protocols, such as hand hygiene and infection control practices. This ensures that I am providing the best possible care for my patients and reducing the risk of any potential infections or illnesses.

I also make sure to stay up-to-date on all new developments in nursing practice. This allows me to provide the most current evidence-based care to my patients. In addition, I regularly review patient charts to ensure that all medications and treatments are being administered correctly and safely.

Lastly, I strive to create an open and honest relationship with my patients. This helps me better understand their needs and concerns, so I can address them quickly and effectively. By taking these steps, I am confident that I am providing the highest level of care and safety for my patients.”

19. How do you handle difficult conversations with doctors and other members of the medical team?

As a nurse extern, you may be required to have difficult conversations with doctors and other members of the medical team. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these types of situations professionally. In your answer, try to show that you are able to communicate respectfully while also standing up for yourself or others when needed.

Example: “I understand that difficult conversations with doctors and other members of the medical team can be challenging. However, I believe that effective communication is key to successful patient care. When faced with a difficult conversation, I take a step back and assess the situation objectively. I try to remain calm and professional while listening to all sides of the issue. I also make sure to ask questions in order to gain a better understanding of the situation. Once I have gathered enough information, I am able to formulate an informed opinion and provide constructive feedback. Ultimately, my goal is to reach a resolution that benefits everyone involved.”

20. Describe a time when you had to make an ethical decision in a clinical setting.

When an interviewer asks you a question like this, they want to know how you make decisions that affect the well-being of your patients. This is because ethical decision making is one of the most important skills for nurses to have. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation and explain what steps you took to reach a conclusion.

Example: “I had to make an ethical decision in a clinical setting when I was working as a Nurse Extern. During my shift, I noticed that one of the patients had not been given their medication on time. The patient’s condition was deteriorating and they were becoming increasingly agitated.

After consulting with the supervising nurse, we decided that it was best to administer the medication immediately rather than wait for the next scheduled dose. This was an ethical dilemma because it meant going against the doctor’s orders, but we felt that it was necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the patient. We discussed our decision with the doctor and explained why we thought it was the right course of action. Thankfully, the doctor agreed with us and the patient’s condition improved shortly after taking the medication.

This experience taught me the importance of making ethical decisions in a clinical setting. It also showed me how important it is to be able to think critically and weigh all options before making a decision. I believe these skills are essential for any Nurse Extern and I am confident that I can use them effectively in this role.”

21. Are you comfortable working alone or as part of a team?

Externs often work alone, but they also need to be able to communicate with their preceptors and other medical professionals. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle working independently as well as in a team setting. In your answer, explain that you are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively. Explain how you plan to balance these two responsibilities when the time comes.

Example: “I am comfortable working both alone and as part of a team. I understand the importance of collaboration in healthcare, so I am always willing to work with others when needed. At the same time, I have experience working independently on projects and tasks that require me to think critically and use my own judgment. I enjoy being able to take ownership of a project and see it through from start to finish. No matter what the situation is, I strive to be an effective communicator and collaborator who can contribute to the success of any team.”

22. What strategies do you use to stay organized while managing multiple patients?

As a nurse extern, you may be responsible for managing multiple patients at once. Employers ask this question to make sure you have strategies in place to stay organized and focused while working with many patients at the same time. In your answer, explain how you plan out your day and manage your time effectively. Share any organizational tools or apps that help you keep track of your tasks.

Example: “Staying organized while managing multiple patients is a key skill for any nurse extern. To ensure I am providing the best care possible, I use several strategies to stay organized. First, I create a daily plan that outlines my tasks and goals for each patient. This helps me prioritize which tasks need to be completed first and ensures that nothing gets overlooked. Second, I keep detailed notes on each patient’s progress so that I can easily refer back to them if needed. Finally, I make sure to communicate with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care. By collaborating with others, I can make sure all of their needs are being met in an efficient manner. These strategies help me stay organized and provide quality care to all of my patients.”

23. Do you have experience using electronic health records software?

Electronic health records software is a common tool used by nurses to document patient information. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience using the same type of system they use at their facility. Before your interview, research the types of electronic health record systems that are used in the area. If you don’t have any experience with these systems, consider taking an online course or enrolling in a training program offered by the hospital.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience using electronic health records software. During my time as a Nurse Extern at my previous job, I was trained on the system and used it daily to document patient information. I am comfortable navigating through the system and entering data quickly and accurately. I also understand the importance of maintaining accurate records in order to provide quality care for patients. I am confident that I can use this same software effectively in your facility.”

24. What would you do if you saw another healthcare professional 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 saw someone making a mistake and what steps you took to address the issue.

Example: “If I saw another healthcare professional making a mistake, the first thing I would do is assess the situation and determine if it was something that could be corrected quickly. If so, I would offer to help them fix the mistake or provide guidance on how to correct it. If the mistake had already been made and there were potential consequences, I would document what happened and report it to my supervisor in order to ensure patient safety. I understand the importance of following protocols and procedures, as well as reporting any mistakes that may have occurred. I also believe in having open communication with fellow healthcare professionals in order to prevent similar situations from happening again.”

25. How do you remain calm during challenging situations?

As a nurse, you may encounter challenging situations. Employers ask this question to learn about your ability to remain calm and focused during these moments. They want to know that you can handle stress well and keep your emotions in check when working with patients. In your answer, share an example of a time when you remained calm under pressure. Explain what steps you took to stay calm and how it helped you perform your job effectively.

Example: “I understand that working in a healthcare setting can be stressful and challenging at times. To remain calm during these situations, I rely on my strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities. When faced with a difficult situation, I take a few moments to assess the situation and think through potential solutions. This helps me stay focused and maintain a level head.

Additionally, I practice positive self-talk and use deep breathing techniques to help me stay calm. I also remind myself of why I chose this profession: to make a difference in people’s lives. Knowing that I am helping others keeps me motivated and energized even when things get tough. Finally, I recognize the importance of taking breaks throughout the day to recharge and refocus.”