Have you ever received negative feedback from a supervisor? If so, how did you handle it?

"I am sure that the longer I work in the healthcare industry, the better I will learn that receiving negative feedback is not always a 'negative' thing. I once received a negative rating on one of my evaluations while earning my LPN certification. It was a disheartening experience because I pride myself on doing good work. I scheduled a time to sit and talk with my supervisor and understand his point of view concerning the negative rating and made a plan of action to improve on the issue."

Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. Discuss a time when you received criticism or feedback and discuss what you did to pivot. When you answer, avoid speaking negatively about the person who gave you the feedback or seeming as though you are tough to manage.

"I remember when I first began my career as an LPN, I thought I had to do everything for everyone. I ended up taking on too many tasks and falling behind with my assignments. One of my supervisors told me that a patient had complained because I seemed too rushed. I was so embarrassed because I didn't want anyone to feel like I couldn't do my job or that I didn't care about them. I apologized to the supervisor and my patient and explained that I had taken on some extra assignments, but that I didn't mean to make her feel neglected. When I apologized, the patient agreed to let me continue caring for her. I learned from that experience that it's ok to want to give more, but that I should not stretch myself too thin and risk compromising the best patient care."

"I once received negative feedback when I was working the ER. My patient's mother was distraught that her child did not receive treatment as quickly as she thought was necessary. She complained to my supervisor that I was not doing my job. After talking with the supervisor, I asked if I could spend some extra time with the patient and his mother so that she could experience the good care that we give. Fear and uncertainty are often reasons that people will lash out on their nursing staff. Sometimes a gentle word and a touch of extra attention are all that one needs to help relieve a stressful situation and diffuse conflict."

How do you plan to continually grow as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

"I will never stop learning and believe that, especially in the healthcare industry, one must stay up to date on new trends and discoveries. I plan to continually grow as an LPN by taking monthly courses on a variety of related topics. If there are any courses you recommend, I would be happy to hear your recommendations."

You have a certification or degree; however, it doesn't mean that you stop learning. Discuss your plans to take professional courses, obtain new certifications, or focus on professional growth. You may also want to mention a class or volunteer position to highlight your commitment to continual development.

"I am so happy to have completed my LPN certification; however, I am not done. I recently enrolled in a weekend course through the American Heart Association that will allow me to teach CPR classes at the local middle school on my days off."

"I grow as a Licensed Practical Nurse by reading medical journals every day. I am also interested in taking additional coursework related to pediatric oncology. Education is important to me, and I will never stop learning."

How do you feel when a physician criticizes your work?

"I am newer to my career as an LPN, and with that information, sometimes comes additional critiques from physicians. I take every critique as a learning opportunity. I am thankful for any feedback that helps me to become a better healthcare provider."

Be authentic when answering this question, but do avoid sounding cynical or begrudged. If you choose to give an example, be sure it allows you to demonstrate your ability to handle criticism with style. Do not use specific names, as the healthcare industry is tight-knit!

"It is never easy to be criticized or to receive unfavorable feedback. However, I believe that I can learn from each experience and constructively move forward. For example, a physician recently mentioned to me that my notes in the database were not as detailed as she would prefer. I had to take a minute and breathe because I spent extra time on those notes and felt frustrated by the feedback. However, I knew this physician could be tough to please, so I asked her to show me exactly how she preferred the notes in the system so that next time, as a team, we could be more efficient."

"My reaction depends on how the criticism is delivered. If given in the sense of constructive feedback, I am thankful for the learning opportunity. If the feedback comes to me as rude or unforgiving, that can be tough to swallow. I am always prepared to defend my work as an LPN because I know it's good, but I would never be unprofessional to save face."

As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what is one of your weaknesses and what action steps are you taking to improve?

"I know you may not think this about someone who has chosen a career as an LPN, but one of my weaknesses is that I can get nervous around people I don't know. I know many introverts feel this to a certain degree. To overcome this weakness, I attend social activities where I know there are going to be opportunities to meet new people so that I can practice being in situations where I need to strike up a conversation with people I may not know."

This question is probably one of the most dreaded queries in a job interview. Answering this question requires self-evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a fundamental characteristic needed to perform your job as an LPN.

"I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get lost in providing too many unnecessary details in my documentation. I recognize this in myself and am sure to assess, before I do my charting, if the detail is critical to include. Since implementing this thinking, my speed of work has increased quite significantly."

"My biggest weakness has to be that I take on too many projects at once. While being involved and participating in various work projects is fun and challenges me as an LPN, I tend to take on several things and then leave some projects unfinished. I have begun to limit myself to only taking on a few projects at a time so that I can devote the necessary time to staying on task."

If you were the LPN in a clinic and your 15 yr old patient asked you to withhold the results of a positive urine drug screen from her parents, how would you respond?

"According to my recent LPN education, while many minor consent laws contain explicit provisions regarding the disclosure of information to parents, some do not allow disclosure without the minor's permission. Others, still, leave the decision about disclosure to the physician's discretion. With all of that in mind, I believe that every LPN should be aware of their state's laws regarding privacy and also know the guidelines set in place within their facility. When in doubt, it will be important that I gain clarification from my charge nurse or attending physician."

Recent polls of adolescent patients (under the age of 18) have shown a tendency not to seek medical care or treatment if that care cannot be independent of a parent or guardian. Among those patients polled, many of them stated that there were specific topics that they do not want their parents to know about. These topics include sexual activity, presence or treatment of STDs, and alcohol or drug abuse. Many polled said that they would prefer to have no treatment at all if notification of their parents was required. As an LPN, some of your patients will be younger than the legal age of consent for treatment. Knowing the law and how it affects what information you can or cannot provide is crucial. The interviewer wants to see that you are not only familiar with the laws in your region, but that you can explain legal issues to your patients in a way that they understand.

"I have had patients in the past who did not want their parents to know certain test results. While I understand some situations may cause an underage patient to feel reservation about disclosing information, I would explain that, because of their age, I cannot keep the information regarding their test results from the parents or guardians."

"Many states have laws allowing minors to give their own consent for certain kinds of health care, such as contraception, pregnancy-related issues, STDs, substance abuse, and mental health care. Most states also have laws that allow minors to consent for care if emancipated, mature, living apart from their parents, or older than 16 years of age. Many of these laws have been in place for several decades. There is wide acceptance in this state that if an adolescent is allowed to give consent for healthcare, the information concerning that care is considered confidential. For this reason, I would respect the underage patients' wishes. If there were a gray area, I would consult my supervisor for clarification."

If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?

"If I suspected any drug abuse by a co-worker, I would direct any suspicion to my supervisor right away. Working while under the influence of any drug, illegal or not, could impair a nurse's ability to provide proper care. I am obligated, in the interest of protecting my patients, to report any concerns to my supervisor so that they can assess the situation, and take appropriate action."

Working in healthcare is stressful, and even healthcare professionals are not exempt from developing addiction issues and unhealthy coping mechanisms. Statistics show that there has been an increase of healthcare providers who abuse prescription drugs or illegal substances. Unfortunately, this trend creates more strain on the healthcare providers who do not abuse drugs. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying signs of drug abuse and that you will make professional decisions to ensure the safety of your patients and the healthcare team.

"It is impossible to give proper care to others if we are working in an impaired state. If I suspected that a co-worker was abusing drugs, I would ask to speak to my supervisor privately and disclose my concerns."

"First, I would ask my coworker if they were feeling well. There are illnesses, such as diabetes, that can mimic intoxication if not properly managed. Talking to my coworker will give me an idea of what may be going on. This initial assessment is important because I must report accurate information to my supervisor. While the symptoms may be a true health issue that is mimicking drug or alcohol use, I have to report suspicions to my supervisor so that they can get to the source of the issue."

What is something that you think people may not know or understand about LPNs that you would like for them to know?

"While completing my LPN certification, even some of my fellow students misinterpreted the depth of what a Licensed Nurse Practitioner can do. To combat this, I will take pride in my work and learn everything that I can, ensuring that I will fully support my healthcare team without hesitation."

Many people know what nurses do, but unless they are members of the nursing industry, they may not understand the differences in the roles of LPNs and RNs. One thing that is important to remember when answering this is to make your answer positive. If you miss using the proper wording, you could appear to devalue the LPN role in comparison to the RN role. The interviewer wants to know that you can appreciate the value of your position as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

"I think that people who are not nurses or are not familiar with the nursing industry hear 'LPN' and often feel that we don't have critical nursing skills like RNs. The truth is, LPNs provide a great deal of hands-on care to patients, and that care requires learning essential skills of nursing. I see many LPNs sell themselves short because they haven't sought a higher degree, and we must uphold that we are a valuable part of a multi-dimensional care team."

"I believe that many people underestimate the role that an LPN can fill in the life of a patient. We are a necessary part of a team of people who have the common goal of wellness and recovery. I think the focus should be more on the fact that we all work together and can provide effective care when we have respect toward one another, no matter what title one holds."

What would you do if a patient complained to you about one of your coworker's conduct toward him/her?

"It is important that the patient feel listened to and that their feelings are validated. I would be sure never to provoke the situation by taking sides. I would ask many discovery questions and document everything to a tee. Then, I would take my understanding of the situation to my immediate supervisor for action and ultimate resolution."

This question aims to test your knowledge of internal procedures used within healthcare establishments. While the exact protocol may vary depending on where you're applying, there are general rules that should be followed by all healthcare providers, no matter which facility you work within. It is essential to explain that all complaints must be handled thoughtfully and directed to the appropriate authority. Emphasize that patient concerns should never go ignored.

"It is unfortunate that situations of misconduct ever occur. However, when they do, patient safety and concerns should always be acknowledged. If a patient presented a complaint to me, I would notify my immediate supervisor and give them whatever information I have so that they can investigate the validity of any allegations and act accordingly."

"I've never had a patient complain to me about one of my coworkers. If faced with this situation, I would assure the patient that I would talk to my supervisor so that they can immediately address the situation. I believe it is essential to let a patient know that any concerns will be resolved but to not 'choose sides,' as this can make the situation worse. I believe that leaving the responsibility of investigating the complaint with my supervisor is the most appropriate action to take."

Has there ever been a time when you felt at risk on the job? If so, how did you handle the situation?

"Being new to my nursing career, I have not experienced a lot of risk on the job. However, while earning my education, we did learn about case studies where nurses were injured, threatened, put at risk by airborne disease, and more. I am confident in the education that I received and will be very diligent when it comes to protecting myself and my coworkers from unnecessary exposure to risky situations."

Healthcare providers work with risks daily. This risk includes exposure to illness, injury from lifting heavy patients or equipment, or injury by a patient who is angry or aggressive. For LPNs who work with patients suffering from addictions, this risk is increased, especially during the detox period when patients are agitated and feel more 'on edge.' The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of handling a stressful, potentially threatening situation. Remember to spotlight your professionalism and training as a healthcare professional.

"There have been a few times that I have felt threatened as an LPN in an addiction center. Unfortunately, drugs make people act completely out of character. I have learned when I feel threatened to remain calm and talk with a level tone. Screaming and shouting does nothing but make a situation worse. If a patient acts aggressive or threatening, I ask them to calm down so that we both are safe and so that I can help. Usually, once we establish boundaries, most patients will calm down. However, as a precaution, I still make sure that a supervisor is aware of the behavior. We can't take care of our patients if we are being threatened or injured."

"I fully understand that risk can be high for LPNs and other healthcare providers. To prevent harm to myself and my team, I remain aware of my surroundings at all times. If I do feel like there is a risk of injury or harm, I will notify my team leader so that we can work together to make sure patients and staff are all safe."

If the Registered Nurse on your unit told you that they had prepared a Rocephin injection, but now has an emergency to attend to and asked you to administer the dose, how would you respond?

"If the RN asked me to administer an injection that I didn't prepare, I would tell them that, although I don't feel comfortable administering, I would be happy to assist in any other way."

One of the first rules of medication administration is that you should not administer any medication that you did not prepare yourself. Unfortunately, many new or inexperienced nurses are sometimes left feeling that if someone in a supervisory position requests this, they should comply. The interviewer wants to know that you are willing to protect the patient, yourself, and do what is right, even if it means declining a supervisor's request for you to perform a job.

"I understand that emergencies arise, but I learned early in nursing school to never administer any medication that I did not prepare myself. If the RN asked me to administer an injection that they had prepared, I would tell them that I can't use the prepared medication. I would offer to either draw up a new injection myself and give it, or to assist with the other emergency so that they could administer the injection and then tend to the emergency afterward."

"I am all for being a team player, and would gently suggest to the RN that they complete the task at hand, while I help with the emergency that has come up. I would never administer an injection that I did not prepare. Although the right answer would be to say no to the RN, I can always do so in a respectful manner."

Nursing can be very demanding at times. How do you prioritize when multiple patients seem to demand your attention at once?

"During my internship in an urgent care clinic, we had a hectic day where many patients were coming in due to widespread flu. In working with my preceptor, I learned how to communicate with patients effectively. His calmness in handling the situation was inspiring. Also, personally, during my final year of coursework in college, I was taking 18 credits each semester. During these semesters, I had to learn to prioritize my classwork by due dates and order of importance. By utilizing checklists and working through each thing one at a time, I learned invaluable skills that I will bring into my career as an LPN."

Working in any medical unit or clinic comes with times where the task load is crazy. During these times, nurses are often the glue that holds everything together, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Talk about how you prioritize multiple patients or tasks, putting a spotlight on your problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.

"During busy times, I remember that the needs of the patient come first. My triage skills come into use to prioritize the order in which I provide patient care. It's critical to exercise good communication between myself, the physicians, and my patients. Once I have established a good line of communication, I remember to stay calm and handle patients with quality care and empathy one at a time."

"One day, I was working a shift as an LPN in the emergency room. There were already several patients in the ER; then, we had a couple of other trauma cases come in, which were a high priority. When this happened, we had to work as a team to communicate with current patients who were waiting that an emergency had occurred and their wait times may be affected. In the end, being able to prioritize the patients and my duties were crucial in helping the day run smoothly."

As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what motivates you to do a good job?

"I am motivated by knowing that I have the chance to improve someone's quality of life. There is something special knowing that I can deliver an impact on the life of someone who is trusting me to care for them."

The hiring authority is asking you to highlight your most positive attributes. Avoid giving a vague, generic response, which tells the interviewer very little about you. Instead, use this question as an opportunity to provide the interviewer with insight into your character, using real-life examples where possible.

"The challenge of a tough patient has always motivated me to do my best. In my last role, I came across a particular patient who refused a handful of nurses before me. I was able to find common ground, which helped him to trust me from the very beginning. After the patient saw me make an effort to understand his situation, he became much more agreeable to the care I was offering. I love facing and overcoming challenges on such a personal level."

"I can think of several things that motivate me to do a good job. First, and most importantly, is knowing that patients and their family's trust me to care for them. I am driven by giving my very best and making a positive impact on someone. I find motivation in the fact that, as an LPN, my learning opportunities never come to an end. There is always a challenge to face, a skill to learn, or a new technology to discover."

Do you find it easy to gain the trust of others? As an LPN, what are some things you do to earn the trust of others?

"Patients and their families should always feel they can trust their healthcare professionals. As an LPN, I will be direct and honest since I know that everyone appreciates transparency and authenticity. I want people to feel they can be honest with me, and that I will be honest in return. This honesty is crucial in building a trusting relationship."

Having a career in healthcare requires you to establish trust between yourself, your patients, their family members, and even your coworkers. The interviewer wants to know that you have an understanding of the importance of establishing trust and how you approach building this trust.

"Not everyone trusts easily. I believe it is better to under-promise and over-deliver. What I mean is, I would rather go above and beyond what has been asked of me rather than to tell a patient or coworker that I am going to do something and not follow through with it. Personal accountability is crucial in building trust with others."

"I find that the more years I work as an LPN, the easier it is to build trust-filled relationships with my patients, their families, and my co-workers. I show that I am trustworthy by displaying up to date knowledge, total kindness, and giving undivided attention."

In addition to providing care to ill patients, and LPN must attend to stressed-out family members. How do you approach offering support to family members?

"I know what it's like to be the family member who is worried about a loved one requiring care. I remember when my father was very ill. He had some nurses who were very kind and approachable. He had a few that were not so kind. As an LPN, I will remember how it felt when I was the one in need of support and to treat those family members with the same kind of respect and kindness that I wanted."

It is natural for family members to be afraid and experience anxiety when a loved one is under medical care. Communicating your compassion and knack for comforting others will show the interviewer how well-rounded you are as a nursing professional. Describe your approach to overall care and compassion.

"Caring for family members often requires as much diligence as caring for our patients. They are naturally afraid of an unfavorable outcome concerning their loved ones. I always speak kindly and offer time to answer questions and allow family members to talk about their concerns. While every day does not offer as much free time as others, a few minutes can often make a big difference to a concerned family member."

"Each family has a different dynamic. As a skilled LPN, I try to recognize the specific personalities and unique needs of my patients and their loved ones. When time allows, I briefly visit with the family members of my patients so that they know who is caring for their loved one and begin to build rapport with them. Having a good relationship between care providers and family members has a positive effect on the patient and often improves their recovery time."

Have you ever witnessed a coworker put a patient in jeopardy? If so, how did you handle the situation?

"I have never been in a situation that required me to report a coworker. I hope I never experience a situation like that; however, I would react appropriately and report the situation to the proper authority right away. Rest assured, I will do everything in my ability to ensure top patient care."

If you have ever faced a situation that resulted in the potential firing of a co-worker, you know how terrible it can be. A situation where you have to make a judgment call can be stressful; however, nurses are bound by law to protect patients and co-workers by reporting anything unlawful, inappropriate, or dangerous. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of identifying and reporting a non-compliant situation if needed.

"I experienced a time that I had to report a co-worker to my supervisor. One of my peers had a diabetic patient who had insulin orders per a sliding scale. The nurse gave insulin to the patient without checking his blood sugar level first. She saw me witness the event and asked me not to tell anyone. However, I knew that the patients' safety was the responsibility of everyone. For that reason, I did notify the supervisor without hesitation and knew I was right to do so."

"When I worked at a long-term care facility, one of my co-workers was using a lift to transfer a patient. He did not have the belt fastened correctly, and the patient slipped onto the floor. My co-worker could have prevented this accident with a touch of extra care. I had to write an incident report and turn the situation over to a supervisor. Although stressful, I did not hesitate to take the proper action. The safety and health of our patients should always come first."

What made you choose a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

"I wanted to be a nurse from the time I was a little girl. I loved pretending to care for others when they were sick, emulating the care that I saw from the nurses when I would need to go to the doctor or the hospital. As I grew older and began exploring career opportunities, nursing seemed to fit my desire to take care of others and help doctors to do their job easier."

Questions like this are usually one of the first that an interviewer will ask. This question is an attempt to get to know you and to see how passionate you are about your career choice. One important thing to remember is, although income may have been one reason for choosing this career, avoid making money your primary focus in your answer. If you must mention salary, do not appear to have chosen this field only because of the income. Nursing is a field of caring for others, and that is what the interviewer wants to hear.

"I always knew I wanted a career where I could care for others. When it became time for me to make some serious decisions about a long-time career, I felt like the nursing field was a great choice. I can care for others as an LPN, which is the main thing I was looking for in a career. Also, there are so many opportunities to learn and grow in the field of healthcare."

"The only career field I ever considered was nursing. I chose to go the LPN route because I wanted to work in more of a 'hands-on' role with my patients. Although, since I became an LPN, I have thought about continuing my education and becoming an RN, this role seems to be the perfect fit for me. I love what I do!"

During a shift change, the nurse you are replacing tells you to expect the narcotics count to be off because it was off when they began their shift. How would you handle this situation?

"Any time the count of medications does not match the record book, I would report the incident to my supervisor. While errors do occur, unfortunately, there could be other reasons for inaccurate counts. It is my responsibility to notify a supervisor. This approach puts the situation in the hands of someone with more experience and authority while protecting me from any liability related to missing medications."

State and federal guidelines mandate accurate record-keeping of medications. No matter where you work as a Licensed Practical Nurse, part of the daily routine includes narcotics counts at the beginning and end of each shift. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of accurate record-keeping and that you will handle any discrepancies within the legal guidelines.

"If I were taking over a shift and the nurse who worked before me told me about a discrepancy between the narcotics count book and the actual medications on hand, I would first ask them if we can do another count to verify the discrepancy. If the count did reflect that medications were missing, I would immediately report this to my supervisor. This situation is not about getting someone into trouble, but about being accountable for the safety and well being of our patients, myself, and the other healthcare providers. Medication errors can occur, but it is my responsibility to make sure I notify the appropriate authority to determine where the error occurred and to make sure it doesn't happen again."

"This situation happened to me a couple of years ago. I reacted by doing a re-count with the nurse who mentioned the discrepancy. There were, in fact, narcotics missing. Calmly, we went together to report the issue to our charge nurse. I believe in situations like this; I must follow regulations and guidelines while maintaining a united front with my fellow nursing team."

Give me an example of one of the most difficult things you've faced as an LPN, and how you handled it.

"During my LPN internship, a patient after he came to the emergency room, thinking he may have pneumonia. Stage IV lung cancer ended up being his diagnosis. It was a very stressful time for the patient and his family. I quickly learned that being a compassionate ear is a fundamental characteristic for any nurse to possess. I spent as much time with him and his family as I could without neglecting my other patients. It was a very sobering experience for me as a new nurse to realize just how quickly a person's life can change with one diagnosis."

Licensed Practical Nurses are responsible for the majority of the 'hands-on' nursing care provided to patients. While RNs provide care, the 'hands-on' nursing care that does not require an RN goes to the LPN when possible. Knowing this, the interviewer is aware that many challenging situations may fall in the hands of the LPN. Be sure to share a personal experience and example, but remember only to use information that will not risk compromising the integrity of a patient's right to privacy. Be sure to deliver your answer using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

"I recently had an elderly patient with no family or friends to visit and offer emotional support. Seeing this patient so sick and struggling was hard. Adding the fact that they didn't have anyone to visit or offer emotional support made the situation much harder. This factor is one reason that many patients seem to lose hope and stop fighting for recovery. To combat this, I prioritized my time and duties so that I could spend any extra time with this patient. Being able to offer support and show compassion to them was a great feeling, and my patient greatly appreciated the effort."

"I began my LPN career in pediatrics, specifically within oncology. I will never forget my first patient, who was preparing for the start of chemotherapy. The emotional strength the child showed while I completed their assessments was incredible. Although scared, this patient remained positive as I monitored them during treatment. I coped by being highly positive and encouraging the child and their parents throughout four chemotherapy treatments. I learned that mindset has so much to do with fighting illness and approaching recovery."

What is your favorite aspect about being a Licensed Practical Nurse?

"As a recently graduated LPN, I know that I will love seeing my patients continually improve with the help of my care and knowledge. During my internship, I observed many patients at their worst. When the care they received from their nurse began to have a positive effect, I saw the shift in them and found it incredible. When I can put my knowledge to better the health and life of someone else, that will be very satisfying."

It is common for candidates to fret over open-ended questions like this. Where do you begin, and where do you end? With all of the career choices out there, the interviewer is interested in what truly makes you love your job. For this reason, it's essential to provide an honest and heartfelt response. You can share a personal experience or story that made you choose a career in nursing.

"There are several things I love about being an LPN. I am a caring person, and as a nurse, I get to meet different people with various needs all the time. Whether it's patients, their family members, or new team members, I like to get to know others and find ways that I can help. I aim to leave a positive impression on everyone I meet, and being a healthcare provider; I feel blessed to fulfill this mission every day."

"I love everything about being an LPN. While some days may be harder than others, depending on my patient's status or diagnosis, I still find something positive in each day. Being a part of someone's life by providing critical care to them is a very satisfying feeling. I couldn't imagine myself in any other career."

Have you ever considered going back to school to further your LPN certificate into a degree?

"I have always wanted to be a nurse. I chose to become an LPN first so that I could get the experience of direct patient care and to perfect my skills. I have considered, after about five years, that I may go to school part-time and work toward my RN degree. However, that is not something that I have decided on for sure."

One of the great things about working in the nursing field is that there are few limits to the number of specialties you can explore. Also, obtaining a higher degree in a healthcare specialty allows many nurses to pursue their dreams of higher education without sacrificing their love for their chosen field. The interviewer may ask this for more than one reason. Some employers offer incentives for employees who qualify to go back to school. Other employers like to know what your educational goals are. This way, they can place you in a position of mutual benefit, allowing you to pursue your most meaningful career goals. It is important to remember that there is no right or wrong answer to this question. If you desire to remain an LPN and gain knowledge related to being a Licensed Practical Nurse, that is more than okay!

"At different times, I have considered furthering my education in the nursing field. However, right now, I am content with where I am in my career. I enjoy the hands-on care that I can give to my patients as an LPN. While there may come a time when I decide to go back to school, I don't foresee that in the immediate future."

"I never considered going back to school to get a higher degree. Many of the people I went to nursing school with did go back and obtain their RN degrees. For me, though, I enjoy the role of being a caregiver to my patients without having to work on the administrative end. It takes all of us to make a good team, and I am happy with the choice I made to become an LPN."

Give me an example of a workplace challenge you encountered, and how you handled it.

"During my internship, I noticed a couple of LPN interns who were unreliable with their documentation. This lack of documentation meant that the nurses who followed them in rotation were often confused or left with bits and pieces of information. We overcame this communication issue by expressing the concerns and impact with our charge nurse. Once the charge nurse was aware of concerns, she was able to help address policy and procedures ensuring proper documentation at all times."

As a Licensed Practical Nurse, you will face various workplace challenges that test your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Tell the interviewer about a situation you faced and how you handled it. Burnout, co-worker issues, communication problems, or not feeling respected in your role may be a few issues you could bring up. Think of your example and be sure to deliver it using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

"A workplace challenge I faced was when we did not have enough nurses on staff to cover for call-ins. Because we were short on nurses, it made it difficult to get by if someone was out sick. I spoke to my clinic director about the situation and suggested we bring on some PRN nurses. Now, double shifts aren't necessary. We contact our float nurses, and they can cover."

"There is often a new challenge each day, including shortages of staff, supplies, and available hospital beds. Over the years as an LPN, I've learned to work around these challenges and be highly resourceful. I never allow the financial challenges in healthcare to impact the quality of my work."

Being a Licensed Practical Nurse can be very stressful. What are some ways you manage stress on the job?

"During my nursing internship in an emergency department, I was sure to take the time to examine how I felt after a shift. I understand as an LPN that I must address my emotions right away and never let them bubble up. I like to write, so I plan to use journaling as an outlet for any feelings that need resolving after an emotionally charged shift."

As you likely know, providing care to sick individuals can be very stressful. Each shift presents what could be a life or death situation. The hiring official needs to know that you can handle stress. Moreover, how you deal with stressful situations speaks volumes. In an LPN interview, be prepared to provide examples of how stress impacts you.

"As a Licensed Practical Nurse, I realize my delivery of care is crucial for positive patient outcomes. This thought can be stressful, but I always try to compartmentalize my stress and channel it healthily. I have a strong support network among my coworkers. Outside of work, I utilize a gym membership and use exercise to help relieve some of the stresses of the day."

"Any job can be stressful at times; however, as LPNs, we handle some of the most delicate patient care situations. If I work an especially stressful case, I know that it is ok to reach out to co-workers within the unit and ask for help when needed."

If a patient were to tell you that they do not agree with a doctor's orders or diagnosis, how would you respond?

"If a patient were to tell me that they disagree with a doctor's order or prognosis, I would ask what their concerns are and bring that information to my supervisor's attention. While the issue may be a lack of understanding by my patient, it is always best to have someone in authority be able to address concerns, especially if the physician has to revisit the patients' files."

With a potentially controversial situation like this, it is okay to have an opinion. However, it is always best to keep your delivery professional and as neutral as possible. Feeding into a patient's feelings of negativity could cause a bigger problem in the end. Remember, as an LPN; you should always listen to a patient's concerns and then direct your thoughts to the appropriate person in a supervisory position. This type of question gives the interviewer a chance to see how you may handle conflict in the workplace.

"Many times patients say that they don't agree with a doctor's orders because they do not understand the order. If a patient were to tell me that they had a concern, I would ask what the concern is to make sure I approached the situation from a place of full understanding. If I can explain an order or procedure to a patient in a way that they can more easily understand it, I will. If I feel like the patient's concern is legitimate, I would speak to my supervisor and address the issue formally."

"I would respond by asking discovery questions and digging deeper into the patients' concerns. Complete communication is the key to delivering empathetic care. As an experienced LPN, I know there is a critical connection between a patients' understanding and the speed or likelihood of their recovery. When every party is on board with a patient care plan, including the patient and the doctor, we increase the chance that the person will recover."

If you were responsible for hiring, what qualities would you look for in a nursing candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?

"If I were hiring another LPN, I would look for someone passionate about the job and delivering high-quality patient care. I also feel that being approachable and willing to learn new skills is very important. These are qualities that I possess, and I am eager to set a great example of enthusiastic growth and exceptional patient care."

First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are essential to perform the job of a licensed practical nurse. Second, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see specific characteristics in your co-workers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well.

"First and foremost, I would look for honesty and integrity in any nursing candidate. I believe that honesty and integrity are critical to ensuring top-notch patient care. I have found that being honest with patients creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities are also essential when building rapport with other care workers."

"We all possess different qualities, and that is what makes a great team. If I were responsible for interviewing and hiring new nurses, I would look for someone who has a genuine interest in the job and a desire to grow and learn. These qualities have helped me to deliver my best over my years as an LPN. Disease and treatment are topics that are always shifting. An eagerness to learn helps to build a better team and benefits our patients immensely."

Have you ever had a patient be combative toward you? If so, how did you handle the situation?

"As a new LPN, I have not had a patient become combative toward me yet. I want to think that, when faced with a situation like that, I will remain calm and try to get to the source of the aggression. Many times people act out in fear. If I can be calm and find out what is going on, I can help my patient overcome that fear and be more at ease, not only with me but with their entire care team."

Unfortunately, there are times when a patient may be more challenging to care for than others. As a licensed practical nurse, you understand that aggressive or abusive patient behavior likely stems from a medical problem, a mental health problem, an emotional issue, or a combination of all these factors. The interviewer wants to know that, when faced with this type of situation, you will be able to maintain your composure and handle the incident as a professional licensed practical nurse. If possible, tell a brief story of a time when you faced this situation. Be sure to use the STAR method when giving your example (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

"During my nursing night shift a couple of years ago, I came across a confused patient with Alzheimer's disease who I found to be wandering. This older man was using a cane, and he seemed to be lost. I kindly approached him and offered to get him back to his room. As I turned to head in the direction of his room, he hit me in the back with his cane. I ran down the hall and called for help. It took several nurses to calm him down. This situation changed how I approached patients who suffer from confusion or memory loss. I also am sure never to put my back to patients under any circumstance."

"I think any LPN who has worked extensively in this profession will tell you that, at one time or another, they have had a patient who was not very cooperative. I had a patient throw his food tray at me once. While I was not happy about having oatmeal all over my scrubs, I took a minute and talked to the patient to find out what was going on. I found out that the patient had reported an allergy to oatmeal and had asked the nurse the day before to make sure that dietary knew of the allergy. When he received his breakfast tray, he became upset and threw it at the first person he saw. I cleaned the mess, ordered him a new tray, and noted his chart of the allergy."

Do you have experience working with peers from diverse backgrounds?

"The largest diverse group I worked with was during my clinical rotation at a university medical center. I met people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It gave me an eye-opening experience of how many wonderful people there are in the healthcare field!"

In an industry as large as healthcare, diversity among peers is inevitable. It is crucial to learn how to work with a diverse group of people. Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, it is an essential factor in providing adequate care. The interviewer wants to know that you are open to meeting and learning about new people and becoming an integral part of their diverse team. Be positive and enthusiastic in your response.

"The diversity of specialty areas is something I love about the healthcare field. I like the idea of being in a career that challenges me to learn and grow. We all have something unique that we can contribute to a team, and I like to embrace the diversity among the healthcare professionals that I work with."

"Yes, I have worked with people from diverse backgrounds. One of the great things about the healthcare industry is that we have people from all backgrounds and walks of life who come together with the common interest in caring for others. I try to take advantage of opportunities to meet people and learn about them as much as possible."

What is your greatest hesitation when it comes to your work as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

"I think it's normal to have hesitations on one level or another. For me, I fear that I may miss something when I am caring for a patient. Nurses are the eyes and ears of doctors. I always want to go home at the end of my day, knowing that I gave everything I could to improve the life and health of someone else."

We all have factors that make us second guess our wor from time to time. Recognizing those fears is the first step in overcoming them. This question is an opportunity for the interviewer to get to know you on a personal level. Being willing to talk openly and vulnerably showcases the fact that you are self-aware, which is an incredible quality to have as a healthcare professional.

"My greatest fear about being a nurse is that I am not learning and growing fast enough to save more people. I know that we can't save everyone, but as an LPN, I want to give everything that I can to those who trust me with their life."

"Honestly, not a day goes by that something doesn't cross my mind, and I wonder if I could have done more or taken a different approach to the type of care I have provided for a patient. Of course, I give all I have and am very dedicated to my patients. I suppose part of what keeps me going, as an LPN, is knowing that I make a difference in the lives of others every single day."

If you discovered that a coworker was violating patient privacy by discussing information outside of the care team, how would you respond?

"I am well aware of the policy around the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, as well as other privacy acts in place within the United States. If I saw a coworker violating a patients' privacy, I would notify my team leader or supervising nurse right away. The law demands that we protect our patient's private information, and our patients expect us to honor that."

In most areas of the world, there are laws in place protecting patient privacy. In the USA, we often refer to HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which has been in place since 1996. Anyone who works in the healthcare industry is required to understand and follow the regulations in place by HIPAA. Failure to do so can result in loss of employment and possible criminal charges. The interviewer wants to see that you know your role in protecting a patient's privacy and that you will make wise decisions if you feel a patient's confidentiality was compromised.

"I believe that we all should strive to protect our patient's confidentiality and follow HIPAA to the tee. If I were to discover that a coworker violated my patient's right to privacy, I would report it to my immediate supervisor. The consequences of unlawfully sharing protected information can impact all of us, and we should all do our part in trying to prevent these events from ever occurring."

"Unfortunately, breaches of patient confidentiality happens more easily than we think. If I were to discover that a coworker compromised a patient's right to privacy, I would report the incident to my supervisor. The effects of breaches in confidentiality are more far-reaching than many people realize. It is up to us, as healthcare providers, to protect our patient's right to privacy at all times."

Are you willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?

"While I am not opposed to working overtime or extended schedules such as holidays, I would like to have the opportunity to spend time with my two small children, as well. I am certainly willing to offer flexibility and be a team player within my team of nurses and co-workers."

Being flexible with your time is always a plus for any hiring authority. However, many people have personal situations that require them to have a do-able schedule. Some LPNs prefer to work one regular shift, knowing what to expect daily. Be upfront with the interviewer regarding the hours that suit your preference. This honest approach will help prevent scheduling conflicts down the road.

"I am reasonably flexible with my schedule, at this time. If I had a choice, I would prefer the late shift, as I am a night owl. However, I am excited to be a part of this team and am willing to work any hours needed."

"Yes, I am prepared to work a wide range of hours or a rotational nursing schedule. My family and I always plan family events and get-togethers around my work schedule. I like to offer flexibility, allowing family time for my colleagues who have small children or other responsibilities."

As an experienced LPN, what would you say to someone who is just now beginning a career in the nursing field?

"If you feel like you want to specialize in one area and then change your mind, go with it. The great thing about being an LPN is that the opportunities are flexible, and it's easy to explore a wide range of healthcare settings. We all have that special calling in our life. We have to listen to our desires and follow our hearts."

The old saying 'Hindsight is 20/20' is something many people say is true. This question allows you to show how you have grown in the field of healthcare and what kind of wisdom you may pass on to someone who is coming into this career after you. Let your enthusiasm for your work as an LPN shine!

"I would say, be open to changes and unexpected discoveries. I started nursing school by thinking I may want to work primarily in the pediatrics field. However, I have had opportunities to work in many different specialty areas such as nursing homes and even advising on public health education and awareness programs."

"I encourage anyone beginning a career in nursing to remember to care for themselves as much as they do their patients. It is easy to get caught up in day-to-day work and forget that while we are making a living, we need to make a life."

Licensed Practical Nurse Interview Questions

Go Back

1. Have you ever received negative feedback from a supervisor? If so, how did you handle it?
2. How do you plan to continually grow as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
3. How do you feel when a physician criticizes your work?
4. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what is one of your weaknesses and what action steps are you taking to improve?
5. If you were the LPN in a clinic and your 15 yr old patient asked you to withhold the results of a positive urine drug screen from her parents, how would you respond?
6. If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?
7. What is something that you think people may not know or understand about LPNs that you would like for them to know?
8. What would you do if a patient complained to you about one of your coworker's conduct toward him/her?
9. Has there ever been a time when you felt at risk on the job? If so, how did you handle the situation?
10. If the Registered Nurse on your unit told you that they had prepared a Rocephin injection, but now has an emergency to attend to and asked you to administer the dose, how would you respond?
11. Nursing can be very demanding at times. How do you prioritize when multiple patients seem to demand your attention at once?
12. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what motivates you to do a good job?
13. Do you find it easy to gain the trust of others? As an LPN, what are some things you do to earn the trust of others?
14. In addition to providing care to ill patients, and LPN must attend to stressed-out family members. How do you approach offering support to family members?
15. Have you ever witnessed a coworker put a patient in jeopardy? If so, how did you handle the situation?
16. What made you choose a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
17. During a shift change, the nurse you are replacing tells you to expect the narcotics count to be off because it was off when they began their shift. How would you handle this situation?
18. Give me an example of one of the most difficult things you've faced as an LPN, and how you handled it.
19. What is your favorite aspect about being a Licensed Practical Nurse?
20. Have you ever considered going back to school to further your LPN certificate into a degree?
21. Give me an example of a workplace challenge you encountered, and how you handled it.
22. Being a Licensed Practical Nurse can be very stressful. What are some ways you manage stress on the job?
23. If a patient were to tell you that they do not agree with a doctor's orders or diagnosis, how would you respond?
24. If you were responsible for hiring, what qualities would you look for in a nursing candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?
25. Have you ever had a patient be combative toward you? If so, how did you handle the situation?
26. Do you have experience working with peers from diverse backgrounds?
27. What is your greatest hesitation when it comes to your work as a Licensed Practical Nurse?
28. If you discovered that a coworker was violating patient privacy by discussing information outside of the care team, how would you respond?
29. Are you willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?
30. As an experienced LPN, what would you say to someone who is just now beginning a career in the nursing field?

Licensed Practical Nurse Interview Questions

1. Have you ever received negative feedback from a supervisor? If so, how did you handle it?

2. How do you plan to continually grow as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

3. How do you feel when a physician criticizes your work?

4. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what is one of your weaknesses and what action steps are you taking to improve?

5. If you were the LPN in a clinic and your 15 yr old patient asked you to withhold the results of a positive urine drug screen from her parents, how would you respond?

6. If you suspected that one of your co-workers was abusing drugs, how would you handle the situation?

7. What is something that you think people may not know or understand about LPNs that you would like for them to know?

8. What would you do if a patient complained to you about one of your coworker's conduct toward him/her?

9. Has there ever been a time when you felt at risk on the job? If so, how did you handle the situation?

10. If the Registered Nurse on your unit told you that they had prepared a Rocephin injection, but now has an emergency to attend to and asked you to administer the dose, how would you respond?

11. Nursing can be very demanding at times. How do you prioritize when multiple patients seem to demand your attention at once?

12. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, what motivates you to do a good job?

13. Do you find it easy to gain the trust of others? As an LPN, what are some things you do to earn the trust of others?

14. In addition to providing care to ill patients, and LPN must attend to stressed-out family members. How do you approach offering support to family members?

15. Have you ever witnessed a coworker put a patient in jeopardy? If so, how did you handle the situation?

16. What made you choose a career as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

17. During a shift change, the nurse you are replacing tells you to expect the narcotics count to be off because it was off when they began their shift. How would you handle this situation?

18. Give me an example of one of the most difficult things you've faced as an LPN, and how you handled it.

19. What is your favorite aspect about being a Licensed Practical Nurse?

20. Have you ever considered going back to school to further your LPN certificate into a degree?

21. Give me an example of a workplace challenge you encountered, and how you handled it.

22. Being a Licensed Practical Nurse can be very stressful. What are some ways you manage stress on the job?

23. If a patient were to tell you that they do not agree with a doctor's orders or diagnosis, how would you respond?

24. If you were responsible for hiring, what qualities would you look for in a nursing candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?

25. Have you ever had a patient be combative toward you? If so, how did you handle the situation?

26. Do you have experience working with peers from diverse backgrounds?

27. What is your greatest hesitation when it comes to your work as a Licensed Practical Nurse?

28. If you discovered that a coworker was violating patient privacy by discussing information outside of the care team, how would you respond?

29. Are you willing to work nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?

30. As an experienced LPN, what would you say to someone who is just now beginning a career in the nursing field?