25 Operating Room Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Operating room nurses are an integral part of the surgical team. They are responsible for preparing the patient for surgery, assisting the surgeon during the operation, and monitoring the patient’s condition after surgery. They also manage the surgical team’s supplies and equipment.

If you’re looking for a job as an operating room nurse, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some questions about your experience and skills. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a list of questions and answers that you can use to help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you comfortable working in an environment where there is a lot of noise and activity?

Operating rooms are busy places, and the interviewer wants to make sure you can handle that. They also want to know if you have any experience working in a high-pressure environment.

Example: “Absolutely. I have been working in an operating room setting for the past five years and am very comfortable with the noise and activity that comes along with it. In my current role, I’m responsible for ensuring a safe environment for patients and staff while providing quality care. I’m used to multitasking and staying focused on the task at hand despite any distractions or interruptions. My experience has also taught me how to effectively communicate with other healthcare professionals and ensure everyone is on the same page when it comes to patient care. I believe these skills will be invaluable in this new position.”

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

This question can help the interviewer determine if you possess the qualities they look for in an operating room nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few of these qualities and explain why they are important.

Example: “As an operating room nurse, I believe there are several important qualities that make a successful nurse. First and foremost is the ability to remain calm under pressure. Operating rooms can be chaotic environments with multiple people working together in a short amount of time. It’s essential for nurses to stay focused and organized while managing their own tasks and those of other team members.

In addition, excellent communication skills are key for success as an operating room nurse. Being able to effectively communicate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals is critical in order to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. Finally, having strong problem-solving skills is also important when it comes to providing quality care in the operating room. By being able to quickly identify issues and come up with solutions, nurses can help prevent complications and provide better patient care.”

3. How would you describe the relationship between an operating room nurse and a surgeon?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your understanding of the role of an operating room nurse and how it relates to other roles in a medical facility. Use your answer to highlight your ability to work with others, communicate effectively and collaborate on projects.

Example: “The relationship between an operating room nurse and a surgeon is one of mutual respect. As the operating room nurse, I understand that my primary role is to support the surgeon in providing safe and effective patient care. This includes anticipating the needs of the surgeon, maintaining a sterile environment, and ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies are readily available. At the same time, I recognize that the surgeon is ultimately responsible for making decisions regarding patient care. Therefore, it is important to maintain open communication with the surgeon throughout the procedure so that any changes or concerns can be addressed quickly and effectively. Ultimately, I strive to create a collaborative atmosphere where both parties feel comfortable working together to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.”

4. What is the most important thing for an operating room nurse to remember during a surgery?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what it takes to be a successful operating room nurse. It also gives them insight into how you prioritize your tasks and manage time effectively. When answering this question, consider which aspects of your job are most important to you and describe them in detail.

Example: “As an operating room nurse, the most important thing to remember during a surgery is to remain focused and organized. It’s essential to maintain a calm demeanor in order to ensure that the patient receives the best care possible. I understand the importance of staying on top of all tasks and keeping track of any changes or updates throughout the procedure. I also have experience with monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing assistance to the surgeon as needed. My attention to detail and ability to stay organized will help me provide excellent care for patients undergoing surgery.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with a patient or family member who was upset about a surgery outcome.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your communication skills and how you handle challenging situations. In your answer, try to show that you can remain calm under pressure and empathize with patients or their families when they’re upset.

Example: “I recently had a situation where a patient and their family were upset about the outcome of a surgery. The patient was having difficulty recovering from the procedure, which caused them to be in more pain than anticipated.

When I spoke with the patient and their family, I took the time to listen to their concerns and explain why the recovery process was taking longer than expected. I also provided resources for additional support and answered any questions they had. I empathized with their frustration and reassured them that we were doing everything possible to ensure the best outcome.

Ultimately, my communication skills helped to alleviate some of their stress and anxiety. I believe it’s important to remain calm and professional when dealing with difficult situations like this. My experience has taught me how to effectively handle these types of conversations while still providing compassionate care.”

6. If a patient needed to be anesthetized for a procedure, what type of anesthesia would you recommend?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of anesthesia and the procedures that require it. In your answer, try to show that you understand the different types of anesthesia and how they work. You can also use this opportunity to demonstrate your ability to make decisions in high-pressure situations.

Example: “When recommending anesthesia for a patient, I always take into consideration the type of procedure being performed and the individual needs of the patient. For example, if the procedure is minor or non-invasive, I might recommend local anesthesia with sedation to help reduce any discomfort. On the other hand, if the procedure requires more extensive work, such as major surgery, I would suggest general anesthesia so that the patient can be completely unconscious during the procedure.

I also consider the patient’s medical history when making an anesthesia recommendation. If the patient has any allergies or sensitivities to certain medications, I make sure to factor this in when selecting an appropriate form of anesthesia. In addition, I ensure that all necessary preoperative tests are completed prior to administering anesthesia. This helps me to identify any potential risks associated with the use of anesthesia and allows me to provide the safest possible care for my patients.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a surgical tool had been left inside a patient’s body after a procedure?

This question is designed to assess your critical thinking skills and how you would react in a challenging situation. It also tests your ability to communicate with the rest of the surgical team. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure the patient’s safety while notifying the medical staff about the mistake.

Example: “If I noticed a surgical tool had been left inside a patient’s body after a procedure, my first priority would be to ensure the safety and well-being of the patient. I would alert the surgeon immediately and take all necessary steps to remove the tool as quickly as possible. I would also document the incident in the patient’s medical record, ensuring that all details are accurately recorded. Finally, I would work with the team to review our procedures and protocols to identify any areas where we can improve our processes to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. My experience as an Operating Room Nurse has taught me the importance of taking quick action when unexpected events occur, while also looking for ways to continuously improve our practices.”

8. How well do you think you can follow a surgeon’s instructions while also monitoring the patient’s vitals and performing other tasks?

The interviewer wants to know how well you can multitask in the operating room. Showcase your ability to work under pressure and prioritize tasks by explaining how you would handle this situation.

Example: “I believe I am well-suited to following a surgeon’s instructions while also monitoring the patient’s vitals and performing other tasks. As an Operating Room Nurse, I have extensive experience in this area. I understand that it is important to be able to follow directions quickly and accurately while still paying attention to the patient’s needs.

I am comfortable multitasking and prioritizing tasks based on their importance. I can keep track of multiple conversations and requests at once and make sure that all instructions are followed properly. I am also familiar with the latest technology used in operating rooms, such as monitors for vital signs and surgical equipment. This allows me to provide quick and accurate feedback to the surgeon when needed.”

9. Do you have any experience preparing patients for surgery?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level and how you might fit into the role. If you have previous experience, describe what you did in detail. If you don’t have any experience, explain that you are ready to learn about this process.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience preparing patients for surgery. During my time as an Operating Room Nurse, I have been responsible for pre-operative assessments and patient education prior to their procedures. This includes assessing the patient’s medical history, physical condition, allergies, and any other relevant information that may affect the procedure. I also provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for the operation and what to expect during recovery. My goal is always to ensure that the patient feels comfortable and informed before they go into surgery. Furthermore, I am adept at providing emotional support to both the patient and their family members throughout this process.”

10. When should a surgeon stop a surgery?

This question can help interviewers understand your decision-making process and how you communicate with surgeons. You should answer this question by describing a situation in which you helped a surgeon decide when to stop a surgery.

Example: “A surgeon should stop a surgery when it is no longer safe to continue. This could be due to any number of factors, such as the patient’s health deteriorating or if the procedure has become too complex for the team to handle. As an Operating Room Nurse, I understand that safety must always come first and will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken before, during, and after the surgery.

I also have experience in recognizing signs of fatigue or stress among surgeons and other medical staff, which can lead to errors or complications. In these cases, I am prepared to take action and suggest that the surgery be stopped until everyone involved is rested and ready to proceed safely. Finally, I am familiar with emergency protocols and procedures in case of unexpected events, so I can help the team respond quickly and effectively.”

11. We want our operating room nurses to be able to work on their own. How would you handle a situation where you needed to administer anesthesia or prepare a patient for surgery without assistance?

This question is designed to assess your independence and ability to work without assistance. It also helps the interviewer determine if you have enough experience to be successful in this role. In your answer, explain how you would handle this situation and what steps you would take to ensure that you can complete all of your tasks independently.

Example: “I have a great deal of experience working independently in the operating room. I am confident that I can handle any situation without assistance. When it comes to administering anesthesia or preparing a patient for surgery, I always make sure to double-check my work and take extra care with each step. I understand the importance of accuracy and safety when it comes to these procedures.

In addition, I stay up-to-date on all new protocols and guidelines related to anesthesia and surgical preparation so that I can be prepared for anything. I also keep an open line of communication with other members of the team so that if I need help or advice, I know who to turn to. Finally, I am comfortable taking initiative and making decisions quickly and confidently.”

12. Describe your experience with different types of surgical procedures.

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience with specific procedures and how you’ve handled them in the past. You can use your answer to highlight any unique or challenging experiences you’ve had, as well as what steps you took to ensure a positive outcome.

Example: “I have extensive experience with a wide range of surgical procedures. I have worked in the operating room for over five years, and during that time I have been exposed to many different types of surgeries. For example, I am experienced in orthopedic surgery, general surgery, gynecological surgery, vascular surgery, and endoscopic procedures.

I understand the importance of being able to quickly adapt to changing situations in the OR, so I have taken it upon myself to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques used in each type of procedure. This has allowed me to remain confident in my ability to provide excellent patient care regardless of the complexity of the case.

In addition to my knowledge of the various types of surgeries, I also possess strong communication skills which are essential when working in an operating room setting. I am comfortable communicating with surgeons, other nurses, and patients alike. My goal is always to ensure everyone involved feels safe and secure throughout the entire process.”

13. What makes you a good fit for this surgery center?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. When answering, it’s important to highlight the skills and experiences that make you a good fit for the role. You should also mention any personal qualities or characteristics that may be beneficial in an operating room setting.

Example: “I believe I am a great fit for this surgery center because of my extensive experience as an Operating Room Nurse. I have been working in the OR for over 10 years and have acquired a deep understanding of the role and its responsibilities. During that time, I have developed excellent communication skills with both patients and colleagues, which is essential to providing quality care. My attention to detail and commitment to patient safety are also key attributes that make me well-suited for this position. In addition, I am highly organized and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy. Finally, I am passionate about helping others and strive to provide compassionate care to all patients.”

14. Which surgical procedures have you performed as an operating room nurse?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience and skill as an operating room nurse. It can also allow them to see if you have any specialized training or skills that may be beneficial for their facility. When answering this question, it can be helpful to list a few procedures you are comfortable with performing in addition to some you would like to learn more about.

Example: “As an operating room nurse, I have extensive experience in performing a variety of surgical procedures. My primary focus has been on general surgery and orthopedic surgeries. I am also familiar with endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures, as well as vascular and thoracic surgeries.

I have assisted surgeons in the performance of complex operations such as joint replacements, spinal fusions, hernia repairs, and abdominal wall reconstructions. I have also performed pre-operative assessments, including patient history taking, vital signs monitoring, and physical exams. In addition, I have provided post-operative care to ensure that patients are recovering properly.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of your job as an operating room nurse?

This question can help interviewers understand what you value most in your work. It also helps them see if you have a good understanding of the role and responsibilities of an operating room nurse. When answering this question, it can be helpful to focus on one or two aspects that are important to you personally.

Example: “As an operating room nurse, I believe the most important aspect of my job is providing a safe and comfortable environment for patients undergoing surgery. This means ensuring that all necessary equipment is available and functioning properly, as well as making sure that the patient’s vital signs are monitored closely during the procedure. It also involves communicating effectively with the surgical team to ensure that everyone is aware of any changes in the patient’s condition or needs. Finally, it is essential to provide emotional support to the patient and their family before, during, and after the procedure.

I am confident that I possess the skills and experience needed to be successful in this role. My years of experience have provided me with the knowledge and expertise required to create a safe and effective operating room environment. In addition, I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which helps me to stay on top of all the necessary tasks. Finally, I have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, allowing me to form strong relationships with both patients and colleagues.”

16. How often have you performed emergency procedures as an operating room nurse?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level and how you might perform in an emergency situation. If you have not performed any emergency procedures, you can explain what you would do if one occurred while working.

Example: “As an operating room nurse, I have had the opportunity to perform emergency procedures on a regular basis. In my current role, I am responsible for assessing patients and determining if they require immediate medical attention or can wait until after surgery. I have been trained in advanced life support techniques such as intubation, chest tube insertion, and airway management. I also have experience with rapid sequence induction and cricothyroidotomy.

I understand the importance of being prepared for any situation that may arise during surgery, so I stay up-to-date on the latest protocols and guidelines. I take part in continuing education courses to ensure I’m knowledgeable about the most recent advances in patient care. My commitment to staying informed and proactive has allowed me to successfully manage many emergency situations in the operating room.”

17. There is a risk of infection when performing certain surgeries. How would you reassure a patient and their family about infection risks before performing a surgery?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your communication skills and ability to reassure patients. In your answer, demonstrate that you can communicate effectively with patients and their families about infection risks and how you plan to prevent them from occurring.

Example: “I understand the importance of providing reassurance to patients and their families before a surgery. As an Operating Room Nurse, I have extensive experience in helping to reduce the risk of infection during surgeries.

Before any procedure, I would explain the steps that are taken to minimize the risk of infection. This includes following strict sterilization protocols for all instruments used, as well as wearing protective clothing such as gloves and masks. I would also discuss the use of antibiotics if necessary.

In addition, I would provide education about signs and symptoms of infection after surgery so that they can be monitored closely. Finally, I would encourage them to ask questions throughout the process so that they feel informed and comfortable with the procedure.”

18. What would you do if a patient’s vitals were not stable during a procedure?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your critical thinking skills and ability to problem solve. In your answer, demonstrate that you can use your analytical abilities to determine the cause of a patient’s vitals not being stable and take action to resolve the issue.

Example: “If a patient’s vitals were not stable during a procedure, my first priority would be to assess the situation and determine the cause. I would then take appropriate action to stabilize the patient’s condition. This could include administering medications or fluids, adjusting the anesthesia levels, or providing additional oxygen if needed. I would also communicate with the surgeon and other members of the medical team to ensure that everyone is aware of the situation and working together to provide the best possible care for the patient. Finally, I would document all interventions and changes in the patient’s condition so that the patient’s health can be monitored over time.

My experience as an Operating Room Nurse has taught me how to quickly recognize signs of instability and respond appropriately. My ability to stay calm under pressure while providing excellent patient care makes me the ideal candidate for this position.”

19. How do you stay current on the latest surgical techniques and procedures?

The interviewer may ask this question to understand how you keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date. They want to know that you are committed to learning new things, especially in a field like surgery where the latest techniques can make a big difference in patient outcomes.

Example: “Staying current on the latest surgical techniques and procedures is essential for any operating room nurse. I make it a priority to stay up-to-date with the most recent developments in the field. To do this, I attend conferences and seminars related to my specialty whenever possible. I also read relevant journals and articles to ensure that I am well informed of the newest advancements in the industry.

I also take advantage of online resources such as webinars, podcasts, and videos to learn more about new technologies and techniques. This helps me stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices in the field. Finally, I actively seek out opportunities to shadow experienced surgeons and observe their techniques firsthand. This allows me to gain valuable insight into how different surgeries are performed and what strategies can be used to maximize patient safety and outcomes.”

20. Are there any safety protocols or standards that you feel should be implemented in an operating room?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of safety protocols and standards in the operating room. This is because it’s important for nurses to follow these protocols and standards to ensure their patients’ safety. In your answer, try to mention any specific protocols or standards that you feel are important. You can also explain why you think they’re important.

Example: “Yes, there are several safety protocols and standards that I feel should be implemented in an operating room. First and foremost, all staff members should receive proper training on the use of equipment and how to properly handle hazardous materials. This ensures that everyone is aware of the risks associated with their job and can take appropriate precautions when necessary.

In addition, it’s important for the operating room to have a clear set of policies and procedures that outline what is expected of each team member. These should include guidelines for hand hygiene, infection control, and waste management. By having these policies in place, everyone will know exactly what is expected of them and how to stay safe while working in the operating room.

Lastly, I believe that regular safety audits should be conducted to ensure that all safety protocols are being followed. This will help identify any potential issues or areas where improvements need to be made. By taking these steps, we can create a safe and secure environment for our patients and staff.”

21. Describe your experience with sterilization and disinfection of medical instruments.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of sterilization and disinfection processes. This is because operating room nurses must ensure that all medical instruments are properly cleaned and disinfected before use in a patient’s surgery. In your answer, describe the steps you take to clean and disinfect medical instruments and how you ensure they’re ready for use during a procedure.

Example: “I have extensive experience with sterilization and disinfection of medical instruments. As an Operating Room Nurse, I understand the importance of ensuring that all equipment is properly cleaned and sanitized before use. During my time in the OR, I have been responsible for preparing and cleaning surgical instruments prior to surgery. This includes inspecting each instrument for any damage or wear, as well as thoroughly washing and disinfecting them. In addition, I am familiar with autoclaving, which is a process used to sterilize instruments through high-pressure steam. I also have experience with chemical sterilization methods such as ethylene oxide gas, hydrogen peroxide vapor, and formaldehyde solutions. Finally, I am knowledgeable about proper storage techniques for sterile and non-sterile items.”

22. What is the most challenging part of being an operating room nurse?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you handle challenges. They want to know that you can overcome obstacles and continue to be a successful employee. In your answer, try to focus on the positive aspects of being an operating room nurse and what makes it rewarding for you.

Example: “The most challenging part of being an operating room nurse is managing the high-pressure environment. Operating rooms are often fast-paced and require nurses to think quickly on their feet. As an experienced OR nurse, I have developed the ability to stay calm under pressure while making sure that all necessary steps are taken for a successful surgery.

I also understand the importance of communication in the OR. It’s essential to ensure everyone involved in the procedure is on the same page and understands what needs to be done. I am confident in my ability to effectively communicate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other members of the surgical team to ensure that everything runs smoothly.”

23. Tell me about a time when you had to make a quick decision while performing a surgery.

This question can help interviewers understand how you make decisions in high-pressure situations. It can also show them that you have experience working in an operating room and performing surgeries.

Example: “I remember a time when I was performing a surgery and had to make a quick decision. The patient was undergoing an appendectomy, and during the procedure we discovered that the appendix had ruptured. This posed a significant risk of infection for the patient, so I knew I had to act quickly.

I consulted with my team and discussed our options. We decided that the best course of action would be to perform a laparoscopic lavage, which is a procedure that flushes out the infected area. After discussing this option with the patient’s family, they agreed to proceed.

The surgery went smoothly and the patient made a full recovery. In situations like these, it’s important to remain calm and think clearly in order to make the best decisions for the patient. As an Operating Room Nurse, I take pride in being able to make quick decisions under pressure while also ensuring the safety of the patient.”

24. Do you have any experience working with children, elderly patients, or other special cases who require extra care?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with special cases and how you handled them. Use your answer to highlight any unique patients you’ve worked with in the past, such as children or elderly people, and explain what steps you took to ensure their safety and comfort while they were in the operating room.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with children, elderly patients, and other special cases who require extra care. During my time as an Operating Room Nurse, I have had the opportunity to work with a variety of different patient populations. For example, I have worked closely with pediatric surgeons on complex procedures for young patients. I am also familiar with the unique needs of elderly patients and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities that may require additional attention during surgery.

I understand the importance of providing compassionate and individualized care to all patients, regardless of their age or medical condition. I take great pride in being able to provide comfort and reassurance to these individuals before, during, and after their surgical procedure. My ability to remain calm and focused under pressure has allowed me to successfully manage any challenging situations that arise.”

25. In what ways have you contributed to improving quality and efficiency in the operating room?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your ability to improve processes and procedures in a healthcare setting. Use examples from your experience that highlight your critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and teamwork capabilities.

Example: “I have been an operating room nurse for the past five years and I am passionate about providing quality care to my patients. During that time, I have implemented several initiatives to improve quality and efficiency in the OR.

For example, I developed a pre-operative checklist system to ensure all necessary supplies were available before surgery began. This allowed us to reduce delays due to missing items and improved patient safety by ensuring we had everything needed on hand.

In addition, I worked with other nurses to develop a standardized process for cleaning and sterilizing surgical instruments. This streamlined our workflow and reduced the risk of infection. Finally, I created a tracking system to monitor the number of surgeries completed each day, which helped us identify areas where we could increase efficiency.”