25 PICU Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

The pediatric intensive care unit, or PICU, is a hospital unit that cares for children with life-threatening medical conditions. PICU nurses provide care for these children and their families.

If you’re a registered nurse who’s interested in working in a PICU, you may be wondering what the interview process is like. What questions will you be asked? What should you wear?

In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of the PICU nurse interview process, including what to expect and how to prepare. We’ll also share some sample PICU nurse interview questions and answers.

1. Are you certified in pediatric nursing?

Certification is an important part of the nursing industry. Employers ask this question to make sure you are certified in pediatric nursing and understand the importance of certification. If you are not certified, explain what steps you plan on taking to become certified.

Example: “Yes, I am certified in pediatric nursing. I have been a PICU Nurse for the past five years and have obtained my certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). During this time, I have gained extensive knowledge of pediatric care and have developed strong clinical skills to provide quality patient care.

I also have experience working with a variety of medical equipment used in the PICU setting such as ventilators, monitors, and infusion pumps. My expertise includes performing assessments, administering medications, providing emotional support to families, and managing complex cases. In addition, I am knowledgeable about infection control protocols and safety regulations.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a PICU nurse to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they apply to working as a PICU nurse.

Example: “The most important skills for a PICU nurse to have are excellent communication, critical thinking and problem solving abilities. As a PICU nurse, I understand the importance of being able to effectively communicate with both patients and their families in order to provide the best care possible. Having strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills is also essential as it allows me to quickly assess patient needs and develop appropriate plans of care. Furthermore, I am well-versed in pediatric assessment techniques, medication administration, and emergency procedures. Finally, my experience has taught me the value of collaboration and teamwork when providing quality care to critically ill children.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a child’s parents refuse to allow a procedure to be performed?

In some cases, parents may disagree with a medical professional’s recommendation for their child. Interviewers want to know how you would handle this situation in a way that is respectful of the family and ensures the safety of the patient. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure the procedure was performed while also maintaining good relationships with the family.

Example: “When a child’s parents refuse to allow a procedure to be performed, it is important to remain calm and professional. I would first explain the medical necessity of the procedure and why it needs to be done. If they still do not agree, I would then offer alternative options that may help address their concerns while still allowing for the necessary care. I would also ensure that all communication with the family is respectful and empathetic. Finally, if the situation cannot be resolved, I would involve my supervisor or other members of the healthcare team as needed.”

4. What is the most challenging aspect of caring for a child in the PICU?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to handle challenging situations. In your answer, describe a specific situation that was difficult but how you overcame it and what you learned from the experience.

Example: “The most challenging aspect of caring for a child in the PICU is managing their emotional needs. It can be difficult to understand and respond appropriately to the emotions that children may be feeling when they are in an unfamiliar environment, away from family and friends. As a PICU Nurse, it is my responsibility to provide comfort and reassurance to these children while also providing them with the best medical care possible. I have experience in helping children cope with their feelings by creating a safe and supportive atmosphere where they feel heard and understood. I am also skilled at communicating effectively with parents and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to administer a difficult or painful medication to a child.

This question can help the interviewer understand how you handle challenging situations and how you comfort children during these times. Use examples from your experience that show how you helped a child through this process and how you used your communication skills to make them feel comfortable.

Example: “I have had to administer difficult or painful medications to children in the past. One example that stands out is when I was caring for a young patient who needed an intramuscular injection of medication. The child was very scared and anxious, so it was important for me to be patient and understanding.

I took my time to explain what was happening and why the injection was necessary. I also provided comfort measures such as distraction techniques and positive reinforcement. After the injection was complete, I monitored the child closely and provided reassurance until they were feeling better.”

6. If a child was experiencing respiratory distress, what steps would you take to prepare the child for intubation?

This question is an opportunity to demonstrate your critical thinking skills and ability to prioritize tasks in a time-sensitive environment. Use examples from your experience that highlight your ability to make quick decisions while prioritizing the needs of patients.

Example: “When a child is experiencing respiratory distress, the first step I would take is to assess the patient’s airway and breathing. This includes assessing their oxygen saturation levels, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Once this assessment has been completed, I would prepare the necessary equipment for intubation. This includes obtaining an endotracheal tube, laryngoscope, suction catheter, and any other supplies needed.

Next, I would ensure that the patient is properly positioned in order to facilitate intubation. This may include positioning them on their back with their head slightly elevated. After the patient is properly positioned, I would administer sedatives or analgesics as needed to reduce anxiety and pain associated with intubation. Finally, I would perform the intubation procedure according to established protocols and monitor the patient closely during the process.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that a child’s medical records listed a different dosage for a certain medication than what the parent told you?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your critical thinking skills and ability to make decisions. In your answer, it’s important to show that you can use your judgment to determine which information is most accurate and act accordingly.

Example: “If I noticed that a child’s medical records listed a different dosage for a certain medication than what the parent told me, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of the patient. I would double-check the prescription with both the parent and the doctor to make sure we are all on the same page. If there is a discrepancy between the two sources, I would take extra steps to verify the correct dosage before administering it. This could include consulting other members of the healthcare team or researching the drug in question. Ultimately, I want to make sure the patient receives the best possible care and that any potential risks are minimized.”

8. How well do you perform your duties when you’re under pressure from a high volume of patients?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to handle stress and maintain composure in a high-pressure situation. Your answer should demonstrate that you can work well under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively and communicate clearly with other team members when necessary.

Example: “I thrive under pressure and I’m confident in my ability to handle a high volume of patients. As an experienced PICU Nurse, I understand the importance of staying organized and prioritizing tasks when managing multiple patients. I am able to quickly assess each patient’s needs and develop a plan of care that is tailored to their individual situation. My strong communication skills allow me to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals in order to provide the best possible care for our patients. I also have experience working with families to ensure they are informed and involved in their child’s care. Finally, I always strive to stay up-to-date on the latest evidence-based practices so that I can provide the highest quality of care for every patient.”

9. Do you have experience caring for a child with a complex medical condition?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with children who are experiencing a medical crisis. Your answer should highlight your ability to work as part of a team and provide compassionate care for patients in need.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience caring for children with complex medical conditions. In my current role as a PICU Nurse, I am responsible for providing comprehensive care to critically ill pediatric patients. This includes assessing the patient’s condition and developing an individualized plan of care that meets their needs. I also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.

I have had the privilege of working with many children who have complex medical conditions such as congenital heart defects, neurological disorders, and respiratory illnesses. My experience has taught me how to effectively communicate with families and provide compassionate support during difficult times. I understand the importance of creating a safe environment where both the child and family feel comfortable and supported.”

10. When caring for a child with a communicable disease, what precautions do you take to prevent spreading it to other patients?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of infection control procedures. Use your answer to highlight your ability to follow protocols and ensure the safety of patients in the PICU.

Example: “When caring for a child with a communicable disease, I take several precautions to prevent the spread of the illness. First and foremost, I always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, gowns, masks, and face shields when entering the patient’s room or providing direct care. I also ensure that all surfaces in the patient’s room are disinfected regularly and that any linens used by the patient are disposed of properly.

In addition, I make sure to practice proper hand hygiene before and after every contact with the patient and their environment. This includes washing my hands thoroughly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based sanitizer. Finally, I limit visitors to the patient’s room and educate them on the importance of following these same safety protocols. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can help protect other patients from contracting the communicable disease.”

11. We want to improve our infection control procedures. How would you go about implementing new protocols to reduce the spread of germs?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your ability to work as part of a team and implement change. In your answer, demonstrate that you can collaborate with other healthcare professionals and use evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes.

Example: “I understand the importance of reducing the spread of germs in a PICU setting and I am confident that I can help your team achieve this goal. My approach to implementing new protocols would involve first assessing the current infection control procedures and identifying any areas for improvement. After conducting an assessment, I would then develop a plan to address any identified gaps and create more effective protocols. This plan should include steps such as educating staff on proper hand hygiene techniques, establishing policies regarding the use of personal protective equipment, and creating a system for tracking infections. Finally, I would ensure that all staff members are aware of the new protocols and provide ongoing training and support to ensure they are followed. With my experience and knowledge in infection control, I am confident that I could successfully implement new protocols to reduce the spread of germs in your PICU.”

12. Describe your process for documenting a child’s medical history and care in a clear and concise manner.

The interviewer will likely want to know how you organize and document information about a child’s medical history, treatments and care. This is an important skill for PICU nurses because they often work with children who have complex medical histories that require detailed documentation.

Example: “When documenting a child’s medical history and care, I like to start by gathering all of the necessary information. This includes any pertinent medical records, lab results, imaging studies, and other relevant data. Once I have this information in hand, I organize it into an easily readable format that is both clear and concise.

I then document the patient’s current condition, including their vital signs, physical exam findings, and any changes since admission. I also make sure to include any interventions or treatments that were administered during the course of care. Finally, I document the patient’s response to treatment, as well as any follow-up instructions given at discharge.”

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

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and why you are the best person for the job. When answering, make sure to highlight your skills and abilities that match what they’re looking for in a candidate. You can also use this opportunity to show how passionate you are about working with children.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my extensive experience and knowledge in pediatric intensive care nursing. I have been a PICU nurse for over five years, providing direct patient care to critically ill children. During that time, I have gained an understanding of the unique needs of each child and their families, as well as the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for them.

In addition to my clinical skills, I also possess excellent communication and organizational abilities. I am able to effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient outcomes. My ability to multitask and prioritize tasks is essential when working in a fast-paced environment such as the PICU. Finally, I have a strong commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date on the latest advances in pediatric care.”

14. Which pediatric medical conditions have you had the most experience caring for?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience in a specific area. It can also show them how you prioritize tasks and manage your time. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention one or two conditions that are most relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I have had the most experience caring for critically ill pediatric patients in the PICU setting. I am well-versed in managing a variety of medical conditions, including respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, and congenital heart defects. I have also cared for children with complex neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus.

In addition to my clinical experience, I have extensive knowledge of evidence-based practice guidelines and protocols related to pediatric critical care. I am comfortable using advanced technology and equipment to monitor and treat these conditions, and I understand the importance of providing family-centered care. My ability to collaborate effectively with other healthcare professionals has enabled me to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to all my patients.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of a PICU nurse’s job?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what it means to be a PICU nurse. It also gives you the chance to talk about your own personal values and how they relate to this role. When answering, think about what you find most rewarding about working in a pediatric intensive care unit.

Example: “The most important aspect of a PICU nurse’s job is providing compassionate and comprehensive care to critically ill children. As a PICU nurse, I understand the importance of taking an individualized approach to each patient’s needs. This includes being knowledgeable about their medical history, understanding their current condition, and having the ability to anticipate potential problems. It also involves creating an environment that fosters trust between the patient and healthcare team.

I believe communication is key in this role. Being able to effectively communicate with patients and families, as well as other members of the healthcare team, is essential in order to provide quality care. I am confident in my ability to build strong relationships with patients and families while advocating for their best interests.”

16. How often have you given a child a shot?

This question can help the interviewer determine how comfortable you are with giving shots. It’s important to be honest about your experience level and explain what steps you take to make sure the child is as comfortable as possible during this procedure.

Example: “I have given shots to children in the PICU setting on a regular basis. I am very comfortable and confident when it comes to administering injections, as I understand the importance of providing safe and effective care for my patients. I always take the time to explain the procedure to both the child and their family members, so that they are aware of what is happening and can feel at ease with the process. I also make sure to follow all safety protocols and guidelines when giving injections, such as using sterile technique and proper disposal methods.”

17. There is a disagreement between a parent and a doctor about the best course of treatment for a child’s condition. How do you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer assess your conflict resolution skills and ability to work with parents. It is important to show that you are able to communicate effectively with patients and their families, as well as other medical professionals.

Example: “When it comes to disagreements between parents and doctors, I believe that the most important thing is to ensure that both parties are heard. As a PICU Nurse, I understand how difficult it can be for families when their child is facing a medical condition, so I always strive to create an environment of understanding and respect.

My approach to handling these types of situations would involve listening carefully to both sides, gathering all relevant information, and then working with the family and doctor to come up with a mutually agreed upon solution. I also make sure to keep open communication channels throughout the process to ensure everyone’s concerns are addressed. Ultimately, my goal is to provide the best possible care for the patient while respecting the wishes of the family.”

18. Tell me about a time when you had to counsel a family during an emotionally difficult situation.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle difficult situations and your ability to empathize with patients and their families. Use examples from your experience where you helped a family cope with an illness or loss, and highlight your communication skills and empathy in your response.

Example: “I recently had to counsel a family during an emotionally difficult situation. The patient was a young child who had been admitted to the PICU with a serious medical condition. As the nurse, I was responsible for providing support and guidance to the family throughout their stay.

One of my primary tasks was to provide emotional support to the family as they were going through this difficult time. I made sure to be available to answer any questions or concerns that they had, while also offering words of encouragement when needed. I also provided resources to help them cope with the stress of the situation, such as counseling services and support groups.”

19. How do you ensure that the patient’s medical needs are met while also respecting their privacy?

Privacy is an important consideration in the healthcare industry. Employers want to ensure that you can respect a patient’s privacy while also ensuring their medical needs are met. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide specific examples of how you have done so in the past.

Example: “I understand the importance of respecting patient privacy while also ensuring that their medical needs are met. As a PICU Nurse, I prioritize both of these aspects in my practice. To ensure that the patient’s medical needs are met, I always stay up to date on current evidence-based practices and guidelines. I strive to provide the highest quality care for each individual patient by utilizing best practices and staying informed about new developments in the field.

To respect the patient’s privacy, I make sure to keep all information confidential and only share it with those who need to know. I also take extra steps to protect the patient’s dignity and autonomy by actively involving them in their treatment plan and making sure they have access to all relevant information. Finally, I work hard to create an environment where patients feel comfortable and respected so that they can trust me and our team to meet their medical needs.”

20. Describe how you stay up-to-date on new treatments and technologies in the PICU setting.

Interviewers want to know that you are committed to your professional development and growth. They also want to see if you have the time management skills necessary to keep up with new developments in your field.

Example: “Staying up-to-date on new treatments and technologies in the PICU setting is something I take very seriously. As a PICU Nurse, it’s important to be knowledgeable about the latest advancements in care so that I can provide the best possible care for my patients. To stay informed, I attend conferences and seminars related to pediatric intensive care nursing. I also read professional journals and articles to learn more about current trends and practices. In addition, I’m always open to learning from colleagues who have experience with different techniques or technologies. Finally, I make sure to keep an eye out for any new developments in the field of pediatric intensive care nursing by following relevant organizations on social media. By taking these steps, I am able to stay up-to-date on the latest treatments and technologies in the PICU setting.”

21. In what ways have you collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide care for children in the PICU?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you work with others. Give examples of times when you worked well with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians or child life specialists, to provide the best care for children in the PICU.

Example: “I have had the opportunity to collaborate with a variety of healthcare professionals while providing care for children in the PICU. I believe that collaboration is key when it comes to providing quality, comprehensive care for our patients.

For example, I often work closely with pediatricians and other specialists to ensure that each patient receives the best possible care. This includes coordinating medication management, ordering tests, developing treatment plans, and monitoring progress. In addition, I also collaborate with social workers, dietitians, physical therapists, and other members of the interdisciplinary team to provide holistic care for our patients.”

22. What strategies do you use to maintain a calm, supportive environment for the child and their family?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to maintain a positive environment for patients and their families. Use examples from past experiences where you helped calm anxious parents or siblings of the child in the PICU.

Example: “I understand how important it is to maintain a calm, supportive environment for the child and their family while they are in the PICU. To achieve this, I use several strategies. First, I make sure that I am always approachable and available to answer any questions or concerns that may arise. I also take time to explain medical procedures and treatments to families so that they feel informed and comfortable with the care their child is receiving.

In addition, I strive to create an atmosphere of trust between myself and the patient’s family by listening to their needs and being respectful of their wishes. Finally, I ensure that I provide emotional support to both the child and their family throughout their stay in the PICU. This includes offering words of encouragement, providing reassurance, and helping them cope with difficult situations. By using these strategies, I am confident that I can help create a calm, supportive environment for the child and their family.”

23. How would you handle a challenging ethical dilemma involving a child’s treatment?

Ethical dilemmas are a common part of working in healthcare. Interviewers ask this question to assess your ability to make difficult decisions and ensure that you always put the patient’s best interests first. In your answer, explain how you would evaluate all available information and come to a fair conclusion.

Example: “When faced with an ethical dilemma involving a child’s treatment, I always take the time to consider all of the available options. I believe that it is important to weigh both the risks and benefits of each option before making a decision. In order to do this effectively, I consult with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians and social workers, to gain their perspectives on the situation. I also make sure to involve the patient’s family in the decision-making process whenever possible. Finally, I strive to ensure that my decisions are based on evidence-based practice guidelines and best practices. This helps me to ensure that I am providing the highest quality care for the patient while still respecting their autonomy and rights.”

24. Explain your approach to developing strong relationships with families of PICU patients.

Strong relationships with families are an important part of being a PICU nurse. The interviewer will want to know how you plan to build strong connections with the patients’ families and ensure they feel supported throughout their child’s hospitalization. Use examples from your experience in which you’ve helped families navigate through difficult situations or provided emotional support during challenging times.

Example: “I believe that developing strong relationships with families of PICU patients is essential for providing the best care possible. I strive to create an environment where families feel comfortable and respected, as well as informed about their child’s condition and treatment plan. To do this, I make sure to listen carefully to family members and answer any questions they may have in a clear and compassionate manner. I also take the time to explain medical terminology and procedures so that families can understand what is happening with their child.

In addition, I prioritize open communication between myself and the patient’s family. I ensure that families are kept up-to-date on their child’s progress and provide them with resources and support when needed. Finally, I make sure to be available to families both during and after their child’s stay in the PICU. By building trust and understanding, I am able to develop strong relationships with families and help them through difficult times.”

25. Have you ever been involved in a research project related to pediatric care?

This question can help interviewers learn more about your background and experience. If you have been involved in a research project, explain what it was about and how it helped improve pediatric care.

Example: “Yes, I have been involved in a research project related to pediatric care. Last year, I was part of a team that conducted a study on the effects of different pain management techniques for children admitted to the PICU. We looked at various methods such as medication, distraction therapy, and music therapy. Through our research, we were able to identify which method was most effective in reducing pain levels in children. This experience has given me an even greater appreciation for the importance of providing quality care to pediatric patients. It also gave me valuable insight into how to effectively manage their pain while still ensuring they receive the best possible care. With my knowledge and experience, I am confident that I can be a great asset to your PICU team.”