25 Surgical Nurse Interview Questions and Answers

Surgical nurses are an integral part of the surgical team. They work with surgeons and anesthesiologists to prepare patients for surgery, assist during surgery, and care for patients post-operatively. They also manage the surgical environment and equipment.

If you’re a surgical nurse, you know that the job involves a great deal of responsibility. You also know that you need to be able to answer a range of surgical nurse interview questions.

In this guide, you’ll find several surgical nurse interview questions and answers, including questions about your experience as a nurse and your experience in the operating room. You’ll also find questions about your ability to work as part of a team and manage the surgical environment.

1. Are you comfortable working with patients who are in pain?

This question can help interviewers determine how you react to patients who are in pain and whether you have the ability to comfort them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation where you helped a patient feel more comfortable during their recovery process.

Example: “Absolutely. As a Surgical Nurse, I am used to working with patients who are in pain and understand the importance of providing them with compassionate care. I have experience administering medications to manage their discomfort and helping them through any difficult procedures they may be undergoing. I also take the time to explain what is happening during each step of the procedure so that my patients feel comfortable and informed. My goal is always to ensure that my patients receive the best possible care and leave feeling better than when they arrived.”

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

This question can help the interviewer determine if you possess the necessary skills and abilities to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your most important qualities and how they benefit you as a surgical nurse.

Example: “As a surgical nurse, I believe the most important qualities are compassion, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills. Compassion is essential in order to provide quality care for patients who may be anxious or scared about their procedure. Attention to detail is also key as it ensures that all procedures are performed correctly and safely. Finally, strong communication skills allow me to effectively communicate with my team members and other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety and comfort.

I have been working as a surgical nurse for several years now and am confident that I possess these qualities. My experience has allowed me to develop an understanding of the importance of providing compassionate and attentive care to each individual patient. In addition, I have developed strong communication skills which enable me to collaborate with my colleagues and other healthcare professionals.”

3. How would you describe the relationship between a surgeon and a surgical nurse?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your understanding of the role of a surgical nurse and how you interact with surgeons. Use examples from past experiences to describe what makes for a good relationship between surgeons and nurses, and highlight any skills or traits that help you develop positive relationships.

Example: “The relationship between a surgeon and a surgical nurse is one of the most important relationships in the operating room. As a Surgical Nurse, I understand that it is my responsibility to provide support for the surgeon during all stages of the operation. This includes pre-operative preparation, intra-operative assistance, and post-operative care.

I believe that the best way to ensure successful outcomes is to create an environment of trust and respect between the surgeon and the nursing staff. It is essential that we work together as a team to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. We must communicate effectively with each other, so that the surgeon can focus on their job while relying on us to handle any tasks outside of their scope.”

4. What is the most challenging part of being a surgical nurse?

This question can help interviewers understand what you find challenging and how you overcome challenges. It also helps them determine if your skills match the job requirements. When answering this question, think about a time when you faced a challenge as a surgical nurse and how you overcame it.

Example: “The most challenging part of being a surgical nurse is managing the complexity and intensity of the operating room environment. As a surgical nurse, I am responsible for providing direct patient care while also ensuring that all necessary equipment and supplies are available and functioning properly. This requires me to be organized and detail-oriented in order to anticipate any potential issues before they arise.

Additionally, it is important to remain calm under pressure and have excellent communication skills when working with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical staff. It is essential to understand each team member’s role and responsibilities so that we can work together efficiently and effectively. Finally, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in surgical techniques and protocols in order to provide the best possible care for our patients.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to provide patient education about a surgical procedure.

Patient education is an important part of the nursing profession, and employers want to know that you can effectively communicate with patients. When answering this question, try to provide a specific example from your previous experience.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to provide patient education about a surgical procedure. The patient was scheduled for an appendectomy and I wanted to ensure that they were fully informed of what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.

To start, I provided them with an overview of the procedure, including how long it would take, what type of anesthesia would be used, and any potential risks or side effects. I also discussed the recovery process and what activities should be avoided in order to reduce the risk of complications. Finally, I answered any questions the patient had and made sure they felt comfortable with their understanding of the procedure.”

6. If a patient experienced a complication during or after a surgery, how would you handle it?

When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of a time you handled a complication during or after a surgery. This can show the interviewer that you have experience with handling these situations and how you would respond in the future.

Example: “If a patient experienced a complication during or after a surgery, I would first assess the situation and determine the severity of the complication. If it is minor, I would take appropriate steps to address the issue and provide comfort to the patient. If the complication is more serious, I would immediately notify the surgeon and other medical staff involved in the procedure so that they could take action. I would also ensure that the patient receives the necessary care and treatment to reduce any further risk of harm. Finally, I would document all details of the incident for future reference.

My experience as a Surgical Nurse has taught me how to remain calm under pressure and handle difficult situations with professionalism and compassion. I understand the importance of communication and collaboration between healthcare professionals when dealing with complications, and I am confident that I can be an asset to your team.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a surgeon performing a procedure incorrectly?

This question can help interviewers understand how you would handle a challenging situation. It’s important to show that you’re willing to speak up and take action when necessary, but also that you respect authority figures. In your answer, try to explain what steps you would take to address the issue while still maintaining a positive relationship with the surgeon.

Example: “If I noticed a surgeon performing a procedure incorrectly, my first priority would be to ensure the patient’s safety. I would speak up and politely explain why the procedure is being done wrong and offer an alternative approach that follows best practices. I would also take steps to document what happened in case it needs to be reported or reviewed later.

I understand the importance of working as part of a team and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide the best care possible for our patients. I have excellent communication skills and am confident in my ability to respectfully express my concerns without compromising the integrity of the surgical team. My goal is always to work together to find the best solution for the patient.”

8. How well do you handle stress? Can you work under pressure?

Stress is a common problem for many nurses. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have strategies for managing stress and pressure in the workplace. In your answer, share how you handle stressful situations and what steps you take to reduce your own stress levels.

Example: “I have a great track record of handling stress and working under pressure. In my current role as a Surgical Nurse, I am often faced with high-pressure situations that require quick decision making. I take pride in being able to remain calm and composed while managing the situation at hand. I understand that it is important to stay focused on the task at hand and not get overwhelmed by the situation.

I also make sure to keep up with my own self-care so that I can be in the best mental state possible when dealing with stressful situations. This includes getting enough rest, eating healthy meals, and taking breaks throughout the day. By doing this, I am better equipped to handle any challenges that come my way.”

9. Do you have any questions for me about the position?

This is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in the position. It’s also a chance for you to learn more about what it would be like to work at this facility. When asking questions, try to focus on things that will help you decide if this job is right for you or not.

Example: “Yes, I do have a few questions. First, what type of surgical procedures are performed in this facility? Secondly, how many nurses are on staff and what is the team dynamic like? Lastly, what kind of support systems are in place to ensure that all patients receive quality care?

I believe my experience as an expert Surgical Nurse makes me the perfect candidate for this position. I am highly knowledgeable in pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative nursing care. I also have extensive experience in providing patient education, developing treatment plans, and managing complex cases. My commitment to excellence and dedication to providing compassionate care make me an ideal fit for this role.”

10. When performing pre-operative assessments, what are some of the things you check for?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to see how well you know the procedures and protocols of your facility. Be sure to mention any specific details that are unique to your hospital or medical center, such as special equipment used during surgery or other important factors.

Example: “When performing pre-operative assessments, I always make sure to check the patient’s vital signs and medical history. This includes taking their temperature, pulse rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels. I also review any existing medical conditions or medications they may be taking that could affect the surgery. In addition, I assess the patient’s physical condition by checking for any signs of infection, skin integrity, and range of motion. Finally, I ask questions about the patient’s lifestyle habits such as diet, exercise, smoking, and alcohol consumption. All of these factors are important in determining if a patient is ready for surgery.

I have extensive experience in this area and am confident in my ability to accurately assess patients before surgery. My attention to detail and commitment to providing quality care makes me an ideal candidate for this position.”

11. We want our surgical nurses to be able to work as a team with other medical professionals. How would you handle conflict within a team setting?

Working as a team is an important part of being a surgical nurse. Employers ask this question to make sure you can work well with others and resolve conflict in the workplace. In your answer, show that you are willing to compromise and communicate effectively with your colleagues.

Example: “I understand the importance of working as a team with other medical professionals in order to provide the best care for patients. I have experience managing conflict within teams, and believe that communication is key. When faced with a disagreement or misunderstanding, I always strive to be open and honest while listening to all perspectives. I also recognize the need to remain professional and respectful when addressing any issues.

In addition, I am comfortable taking initiative and leading conversations when needed. This includes facilitating discussions between team members to ensure everyone’s opinions are heard and respected. My goal is to create an environment where team members can work together collaboratively without fear of judgement or criticism. Ultimately, I believe that by fostering an atmosphere of respect and understanding, we can resolve conflicts quickly and efficiently.”

12. Describe your process for preparing a patient for a surgery.

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your bedside manner and interpersonal skills. This is a behavioral interview question, so they want to see how you apply your soft skills in the workplace.

Example: “My process for preparing a patient for surgery begins with providing the patient with detailed information about the procedure. I explain what they can expect before, during, and after the surgery so that they feel comfortable and informed. I also ensure that all of their questions are answered in order to provide them with peace of mind.

Next, I review the patient’s medical history and any relevant lab results or imaging studies. This helps me understand the patient’s overall health status and determine if there are any potential risks associated with the procedure.

I then assess the patient’s vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate. This allows me to monitor the patient’s condition throughout the pre-operative period and identify any changes that may need to be addressed prior to the surgery.

Lastly, I make sure that the patient is properly positioned on the operating table and that all necessary equipment is readily available. I also double check that the surgical team has all the necessary supplies and instruments needed for the procedure.”

13. What makes you stand out from other surgical nurses?

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 job description.

Example: “I believe my experience and knowledge make me stand out from other surgical nurses. I have been a Surgical Nurse for the past five years, and during that time I have gained extensive hands-on experience in all aspects of preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care. I am also well versed in the latest technology and equipment used in surgery, as well as the most up-to-date techniques and protocols.

In addition to my technical skills, I am an excellent communicator and team player. I understand the importance of working collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. I am also highly organized and detail oriented, which allows me to provide efficient and effective patient care.”

14. Which surgical procedures have you performed as a nurse?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience in a surgical setting. It also helps them understand which procedures you are comfortable with and which ones you may need more training on. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to list some of the most common procedures you have performed as well as some that you would like to learn how to perform.

Example: “As a Surgical Nurse, I have performed a variety of surgical procedures. My experience includes pre-operative assessments, assisting with the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, providing post-operative care, and monitoring vital signs during surgery. I am also experienced in wound management, dressing changes, and suture removal. In addition to these duties, I have assisted surgeons in performing laparoscopic and open surgeries such as appendectomies, cholecystectomies, hernia repairs, and hysterectomies. I am comfortable working independently or as part of a team and can quickly adapt to new situations. With my knowledge and expertise, I am confident that I will be an asset to your organization.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of post-operative care?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of the post-operative process and how you prioritize tasks. Your answer should include a specific example from your experience as a surgical nurse that shows your ability to plan ahead and organize your time effectively.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of post-operative care is ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and individualized care. This includes providing emotional support, monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and educating patients on proper wound care. It also involves communicating with other healthcare professionals to ensure that all aspects of the patient’s recovery are addressed.

As a Surgical Nurse, I understand the importance of providing quality post-operative care. I have extensive experience in assessing patient needs and developing appropriate plans of care. I am knowledgeable about the latest evidence-based practices and strive to provide the best possible outcomes for my patients. My goal is to help them achieve optimal health and wellness as quickly and safely as possible.”

16. How often do you perform wound checks?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level and how you perform wound checks. You can answer this question by describing the frequency of performing wound checks in your previous role, or if you have not performed them before, you can describe what a wound check is.

Example: “As a Surgical Nurse, I understand the importance of wound checks and take them very seriously. I perform wound checks on all my patients at least twice daily. During each check, I assess the patient’s wounds for signs of infection, healing progress, and any other changes that may have occurred since the last check. I also document my findings in the patient’s medical record to ensure accuracy and continuity of care.

In addition, I am well-versed in the latest best practices when it comes to wound care. I regularly review evidence-based guidelines to stay up-to-date with the most effective treatments and protocols. This ensures that my patients receive the highest quality of care possible.”

17. There is a shortage of surgeons in this area. How would you convince a surgeon to perform a surgery they don’t usually do?

This question is a great way to test your ability to persuade and negotiate. It also shows the interviewer that you are aware of the current needs in the medical community. Your answer should show that you have an understanding of the local healthcare system, as well as how it works with other systems.

Example: “As a Surgical Nurse, I understand the importance of having a skilled surgeon to perform complex surgeries. With the shortage of surgeons in this area, it is important to be able to convince them to take on new procedures that they may not usually do.

My approach would be to provide the surgeon with all the necessary information about the procedure and its benefits. This includes research studies, patient outcomes, and any other relevant data. By presenting the facts in an organized manner, I can help the surgeon make an informed decision.

I also believe in building relationships with surgeons so that they feel comfortable trusting me with their decisions. I strive to create an environment where surgeons feel supported and respected. Through open communication and collaboration, I am confident that I can successfully persuade a surgeon to take on a surgery they don’t usually do.”

18. How do you stay up to date on the most recent surgical techniques and technologies?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are committed to continuing your education and training. They want to know that you have a passion for learning new things, which can help you provide the best care possible for their patients. In your answer, share how you stay up to date on advancements in surgical procedures and technologies. You can also mention any certifications or educational programs you’ve completed recently.

Example: “As a Surgical Nurse, I understand the importance of staying up to date on the most recent surgical techniques and technologies. To ensure that I am always current with the latest advancements in my field, I make sure to attend conferences and seminars related to surgery whenever possible. I also read relevant medical journals and publications regularly, as well as follow industry-related blogs and websites. Finally, I stay connected with other professionals in the field by networking at events and joining professional organizations. By doing all of these things, I am able to remain knowledgeable about the newest developments in the field of surgery.”

19. What is your experience with sterile technique?

Sterile technique is a skill that surgical nurses must have. It involves the use of sterile tools and equipment in order to prevent infection during surgery. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are familiar with this important skill. In your answer, try to describe how you perform sterile techniques correctly. You can also mention any training or certification you have regarding sterile technique.

Example: “I have extensive experience with sterile technique. I have worked as a surgical nurse for the past five years, and during that time I have been responsible for following strict protocols to ensure patient safety and successful outcomes.

I am well-versed in the principles of asepsis and infection control, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and cleaning and disinfecting instruments and surfaces. I understand the importance of maintaining a clean and organized work environment and take great care to ensure that all materials are properly sterilized before use.

In addition, I am familiar with the different types of sterilization methods and can quickly assess which method is best suited for each situation. I also stay up-to-date on new techniques and technologies related to sterile technique so that I can provide the highest quality of care to my patients.”

20. Explain how you would handle a situation where a patient’s family member was not satisfied with the care they were receiving.

As a surgical nurse, you will often be the first point of contact for patients and their families. This question allows an interviewer to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to resolve conflict. In your answer, try to highlight your communication and problem-solving skills.

Example: “If a patient’s family member was not satisfied with the care they were receiving, I would first take the time to listen and understand their concerns. It is important to be empathetic and show that you are taking their concerns seriously. After listening, I would explain what steps have been taken to ensure the best possible care for the patient. I would also provide any additional resources or information that may help alleviate their worries. Finally, I would offer to stay in contact with them throughout the course of treatment so they can feel reassured that their loved one is receiving the highest quality of care.”

21. Do you have any experience working in an operating room environment?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience level and how you’ve performed in an operating room setting. If you have previous experience working as a surgical nurse, share what your responsibilities were and how you contributed to the success of the team. If you don’t have any prior experience, you can discuss your interest in operating rooms and why you’re qualified for the role.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working in an operating room environment. For the past five years, I have been a Surgical Nurse at ABC Hospital where I was responsible for prepping and assisting surgeons during operations. During my time there, I developed strong skills in patient care, surgical instrumentation, and post-operative recovery.

I am also well-versed in the latest technologies used in modern operating rooms. I have completed several courses on advanced medical equipment and procedures, such as robotic surgery, endoscopy, and laparoscopic surgeries. My knowledge of these technologies has enabled me to provide excellent patient care while ensuring safety and accuracy during operations.”

22. Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision as a nurse.

This question can help interviewers learn more about your decision-making skills and how you use them in the workplace. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision that affected other people or helped others.

Example: “When I was working as a surgical nurse, there were times when patients would come into the hospital with serious injuries. In these situations, we often had to decide which surgeries needed to happen first so that the patient could get the best care possible. While making these decisions is never easy, I always tried to prioritize surgeries based on what would benefit the patient most.”

Example: “As a Surgical Nurse, I have had to make difficult decisions on a regular basis. One of the most challenging decisions I’ve had to make was during an emergency surgery. The patient was suffering from severe internal bleeding and needed immediate attention. After consulting with the surgeon, we decided that the best course of action would be to perform a laparotomy.

This decision was incredibly difficult because it involved taking a risk in order to save the patient’s life. Weighing the risks versus the potential benefits was a challenge, but ultimately I felt confident that this was the right choice for the patient. Fortunately, the procedure was successful and the patient made a full recovery. This experience taught me the importance of making careful decisions in high-pressure situations.”

23. Tell me about a time when you successfully implemented a new protocol or procedure.

This question can help the interviewer determine your ability to adapt and learn new things. It also shows them how you might fit into their organization, as they may have specific protocols or procedures that you would need to follow.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to successfully implement a new protocol or procedure in my current role as a Surgical Nurse. The hospital I work for was looking to improve patient safety and reduce surgical site infections, so they developed a new protocol that required nurses to perform pre-operative skin preparation with an antiseptic solution prior to surgery.

To ensure successful implementation of this new protocol, I worked closely with the other members of the operating room team to educate them on the importance of following the new guidelines. I also created a checklist for each nurse to use during their shift to ensure that all patients received the proper skin preparation before surgery. Finally, I monitored compliance by conducting spot checks throughout the day and providing feedback to any staff who were not following the protocol correctly.

The result of our efforts was a significant decrease in surgical site infections within the first month of implementing the new protocol. This success has been attributed to the hard work of the entire team, but I am proud to have played a key role in making sure that the new protocol was properly implemented and followed.”

24. How do you keep track of patient records and medical histories?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your organizational skills and ability to work with large amounts of information. Your answer should demonstrate that you have a system for organizing patient records, medical histories and other important documents.

Example: “I believe that keeping accurate and up-to-date patient records is essential for providing the best possible care. I use a variety of methods to ensure that all patient records are kept current and organized.

When it comes to medical histories, I make sure to ask patients detailed questions about their past illnesses or treatments during each visit. I record this information in the patient’s chart so that I can easily refer back to it when needed. Additionally, I always review any previous medical records from other providers before beginning treatment. This helps me gain an understanding of the patient’s overall health and allows me to provide more tailored care.”

25. Are there any types of surgeries that you feel uncomfortable performing?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience with all types of surgeries. It can also show them that you are honest about your skills and abilities. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention a type of surgery that you feel uncomfortable performing but would be willing to learn how to perform.

Example: “I am comfortable working on any patient in any situation, however, I do not have much experience with pediatric surgeries. If given the opportunity, I would love to gain more experience with these types of procedures so that I could become more familiar with them.”

Example: “No, I am comfortable performing all types of surgeries. As a Surgical Nurse, it is my responsibility to ensure that the patient receives the best care possible and that I am able to provide them with the necessary support throughout their procedure. I have experience in both minor and major surgical procedures, ranging from laparoscopic surgery to open heart surgery. I understand the importance of staying up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies used in surgery, so I make sure to attend continuing education courses whenever available. My commitment to providing quality care ensures that I can perform any type of surgery safely and effectively.”