Sample Interview Questions for Nursing

Students are encouraged to book an advising appointment for a mock interview to prepare for interviews, but you can also use these questions for self-study. You can book your advising appointment on campusBRIDGE.

You can also partner with a friend, and they can ask you a sample question while you answer to practice interviewing.

  1. Tell me about a time you provided direct patient care.
  2. Tell me about a time you adapted to a new environment.
  3. Describe a situation where you handled constructive criticism.
  4. Give an example of coping with an emotionally difficult situation.
  5. Tell me about a time you managed stress while providing care.
  6. Describe a challenge you faced during clinical placements.
  7. Describe a situation where you followed clinical protocols closely.
  8. Tell me about a time you identified a patient safety concern.
  9. Give an example of how you prioritized patient needs.
  10. Tell me about a time you made a mistake and what you did next.
  11. Tell me about a time you communicated with a patient who was upset.
  12. Describe a situation where you explained care to a patient or family.
  13. Give an example of showing empathy in practice.
  14. Give an example of communicating with a multidisciplinary team.
  15. Tell me about a time you had to ask for clarification.
  16. Describe a situation where clear communication improved care.
  17. Tell me about a time you managed multiple tasks.
  18. Describe a situation where priorities changed quickly.
  19. Give an example of working under time pressure.
  20. Tell me about a time you handled a busy shift.
  21. Describe how you organize your work.
  22. Tell me about a time you worked with multiple stakeholders to reach consensus.
  23. Describe a situation where stakeholder priorities conflicted.
  24. Describe a time you evaluated a public health or healthcare program.
  25. Tell me about a time you provided clinical advice to inform a decision.
  26. Tell me about a time you investigated a safety or risk issue.
  27. Describe a situation where you worked with health information systems.
  28. Give an example of supporting quality or safety standards.
  29. Tell me about a time you worked on emergency preparedness.
  30. Tell me about a time you provided culturally respectful care.


Updated January 2026 with the assistance of ChatGPT