Nursing Aide Interview
Questions

6. Do you feel like you have good problem solving skills? An interviewer is aware of the importance of a nursing aide who has strong problem solving skills. Each shift brings unexpected challenges and issues. Show your understanding and strength as a problem- solver. Here is an answer example: "Problem-solving is one of my strengths. I always try to think outside of my personal emotions and address a problem directly so that I can move forward with my job." Here is an entry level answer example: "I do feel like I have good problem solving skills. I like to think outside of the box and try to find the best way to resolve a problem. I also try to stay aware of the fact that, although my job requires skill, I am not expected to know everything. If I reach a place in care that I feel like I need to call a supervisor to assist, I always set my pride aside and ask for help." Here is an experienced answer example: "I believe good problem solving skills is essential for a nursing aide.. This is one skill that I feel is important to build upon daily. I always try to look at a situation and prioritize what needs to be done so that any small issues can be quickly resolved. I also feel that incorporating good teamwork and communication is important in problem solving. It's always easier when there is more than one person working to resolve a situation."7. What are some of the most difficult patients to work with as a nursing aide? Being a nursing aide means that you are caring for people, often at their worst. Diseases and disabling conditions often make people seem to have a change in their personality and outlook on life. The interviewer doesn't just want to know that a particular patient is difficult, but how do you approach giving effective care to that patient. Here is an answer example: "Some of the most difficult patients to work with are often those who have the middle or latter stages of Alzheimer's disease. It's not that I don't know how to care for them. The difficulty comes with seeing the changes that occur in these patients. Many of them have no memory of people they knew and loved. They lose their ability to care for themselves at all. It is a very disheartening condition to see someone affected by." Here is an entry level answer example: "Some days are easier than others, no matter what type of patient I am caring for. I think one of the most difficult to work with are those who have suffered some kind of injury or illness that has left them paralyzed or unable to speak. It is difficult because it is obvious that these patients want to do for themselves, but some part of their body doesn't allow them to. I try to be encouraging and offer assistance as needed."8. What made you want to become a nursing aide? Your choice of profession tells alot about you. Interviewers often ask what made you choose a specific profession. It's their way of getting to know you and seeing how passionate you come across regarding your choice. Here is an answer example: "I love working with people. At one time I considered going to nursing school, but I just wasn't sure if that was the right choice for me. I visited some different healthcare facilities and realized how active the nursing aides were in their patient's daily lives. I just felt like this would be a great fit for me." Here is an entry level answer example: "I loved the idea of getting to care for people by giving them the one on one care that a nursing aide provides. Being able to help them prepare for their day and assisting them with activities that they can no longer do alone is a great feeling." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have always enjoyed working closely with people and assisting people. There is much more to being an nursing aide than many people realize. When I became involved and saw how much those I care for looked forward to seeing me each day and what it meant to them to have someone to be involved in their lives, I knew I had made the right decision."9. Has there ever been a time when you received negative feedback, and how did you handle it? Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. The important thing to remember when answering this question is don't talk negatively about the person who gave you the feedback. Rather state what was said and how you grew from the event. Here is an answer example: "When I first became an activities aide, a mother of one of the children reported to the director that she thought I was not as attentive to her child as I should be. When my supervisor talked with me about the complaint, I was able to give an account of my day and what activities I conducted that included the child in question. We were able to create a plan of activities for the parent to review and agree to. Our effort to resolve the issue showed the mother that we were willing to work with her and we never had any other issues." Here is an experienced answer example: "I am sure that anyone who works directly with others for any amount of time will learn that receiving negative feedback is not always a truly 'negative' thing. People respond to situations differently. I recall I once received a negative rating on one of my evaluations. It was a disheartening experience because I really pride myself on doing good work. I scheduled a time to sit and talk with my supervisor and understand his point of view with regard to the negative rating and made a plan of action to improve on the issue."10. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months that may cause you to have to relocate or leave this job? Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company? Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated. Here is an answer example: "I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our jobs and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family." Here is an entry level answer example: "My hope is to find a position that will allow me to work long term. I do not anticipate any significant changes that would affect that." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have no plans of relocating and all of my family live close by. I have traveled before and have come to a place in my life where I want to find a stationary position and grow with a company. Being an nursing aide gives me the chance to give my time to others and gives me a feeling of fulfillment."11. Have you ever had an issue with a supervising nurse, and if so, how did you handle it? Nursing aides report to a nurse who is the team leader, or floor supervisor. It is important to remember when answering this question, do not speak negatively about a supervisor. You can refer (cautiously) to a situation that may have occurred, but use it as a way to speak of how an issue was positively resolved. Here is an answer example: "I have never had an issue with a supervisor that was something that we couldn't resolve together. I always try to put myself in the other person's shoes, so to speak. We never really know what kind of day someone is having and I try to remember that a stressful day, whether it has to do with work or something outside of work, can make us all react in different ways. Knowing that, if I feel there is tension between myself and anyone within my work team, I always approach that person with a kind word and ask if there is anything I can do to make the day better." Here is an entry level answer example: "I can only recall one time when there could have been an issue between myself and a supervisor. It was a misunderstanding about a patient's care, but when we talked about it and I showed her my assignment list and my documentation of the work I had done, she realized that everything had been taken care of and the issue was resolved."12. What are some things that you do to help promote balance in your life? No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus which can result in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for you. Maybe you have a favorite pastime or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person. Here is an answer example: "One of my favorite pastimes is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release any feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers." Here is an entry level answer example: "I really enjoy working out at the gym and, I also take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day."13. How would you deal with an angry patient, and why? Knowing how you will handle a difficult situation will tell the interviewer if you have the the right attitude for this job. Being a clinical lab technician means you have to deal with people from very different backgrounds and with varying personalities. Give the interviewer an example of how you would handle an angry patient. Here is an answer example: "I believe acting calmly and speaking rationally is a great way to calm someone who is angry and I try to be the voice of reason without making someone feel that I am belittling them." Here is an entry level answer example: "I think it is important to try and find out what has made the patient mad. If it is something such as not being called as quickly as he had expected, a simple explanation regarding what caused the delay may help calm him." Here is an experienced answer example: "There are a couple of different approaches and safety is, of course, the most important thing to consider. If I were to try and provide care to someone who is angry, he could become combative which could result in injury to him, to me, or to both of us. I feel the best approach is to ask what has made the patient upset and try to resolve the underlying cause, if at all possible."14. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information. Working as an nursing aide, you are trusted with sensitive information each day. Don't fall into this trap and answer this question with a story containing confidential information, people will view your answer negatively and view you as not being trustworthy. If you choose to tell about a situation be sure to be vague and not use names or too many details. Here is an answer example: "I'm trusted with confidential information every day. I make a point to leave my work at work and not discuss patients outside of the facility. By not discussing confidential information about the patients I'm ensuring that I'm not breaking any rules and giving information to those that are not on a need to know basis." Here is an entry level answer example: "I am expected to keep all information confidential every day, so there is not just one instance that I can refer to. I believe in practicing within legal and ethical bounds and keeping patient's confidence is one way I do that." Here is an experienced answer example: "Every day I work is an example of me being trusted with confidential information. HIPAA regulations were set in place with good reason and I appreciate the idea behind them. I strive to stay well within the bounds of legality with regard to patient privacy."15. In your opinion, what personality type is best suited for being a nursing aide? Each person you meet has his own personality. Certain jobs require specific characteristics of those who are performing the job. The interviewer really wants to know what you would consider a valuable characteristic or trait of someone who is a nursing aide.. Here is an answer example: "Being a nursing aide seems to be a world of its own sometimes. We take care of some of the patients who can't take care of themselves.. I believe that someone who works in this specialty needs to be very compassionate and know how to exercise patience." Here is an entry level answer example: "I believe healthcare providers, as a whole, should have a caring and compassionate personality. We see people at their worst. They are sick and often afraid. It is up to us to be patient and kind as we are working and caring for others." Here is an experienced answer example: "I truly believe that a nursing aide can have a great impact on a patient's recovery. It is more than giving baths or fixing hair and makeup. Having a strong work ethic and professional attitude is important. However, having an approachable, caring attitude helps patients feel more at ease which reduces the stresses that come along with being in a dependent state."16. How long have you been a nurses aide? Length of experience will help an interviewer determine what strengths you may have and what area your skills may be most well utilized. Rather than just giving a specific amount of time, also share what your primary responsibilities were during that time. Here is an answer example: "I have been a nursing aide for X years. The majority of my experience as a nursing aide has been working in long-term care facilities. I do have some experience working as a home health nursing aide, as well." Here is an entry level answer example: "I just recently became certified as a nursing assistant. I love caring for others and am really looking forward to the experience of being a nursing aide." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have been a nursing aide for X years. I initially began my medical career as a medical secretary. While I did enjoy that work, I really wanted to find something that allowed me to have a more hands-on role with patients. I really enjoy being able to be actively involved with the care of others."17. Nursing aides at our facility often work on rotation. Are you willing to work, nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed? Being flexible with the schedule you are willing to work is always a plus. However, many people work more than one job or have a one parent home which requires them to have a flexible schedule. Others simply prefer to work one shift rather than another. Being upfront with the interviewer about what schedule suits your preference could help prevent conflict later on. It is easier to plan a schedule you can agree on than it is to fix problems that arise due to fear of being rejected. Be honest and direct. Here is an answer example: "I am not married and have no children at this time. So, I am pretty flexible with my schedule. If I had a choice, I would prefer the late shift, as I am a bit of a night owl. However, I am excited about the opportunity to become a part of this team and am willing to work where I'm needed." Here is an entry level answer example: "While I am not unopposed to working overtime or extended schedules such as holidays, I would like to have the opportunity to spend time with small children, as well." Here is an experienced answer example: "Yes, I am prepared to work that type of schedule. My family and I always plan special events around my work schedule. Also, part of us giving back has always been that I like to offer to work some extra time for those who have small children or other responsibilities."18. What are your primary interests outside of work? No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus which can result in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for you. Maybe you have a favorite pastime or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person. Here is an answer example: "One of my favorite pastimes is writing. After a busy day at work, I like to journal or write articles for a blog that I author. Both of these forms of writing allow me to release any feelings of frustration I may experience, especially after a stressful day or a difficult situation at work. The writings in my journal are private and my way of 'letting it all out.' The blog articles, on the other hand, are my way of using creative writing to share stories with my followers." Here is an entry level answer example: "I really enjoy working out at the gym and, I also take a kickboxing class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day." Here is an experienced answer example: "Although I love my work, I am definitely not married to it. I have children and grandchildren that I enjoy spending time with. I also like to travel when time is generous."19. How do you handle stressful situations? Stress management will be essential for you to be able to handle tight deadlines, long hours and demanding patients. Before answering this question, think of some tools that have helped you manage your stress. What will you do when you can't take a break when you need it? How will you stay calm when dealing with those challenging personalities? Share any helpful techniques that you use every day to remain clear-headed in some of the most stressful scenarios. Here is an answer example: "I've learned not to take words or actions of stressed patients personally. Even when I'm feeling rushed or overwhelmed by a deadline and being pulled in too many directions, I can ground myself knowing that I'm providing the best customer service and caring for my patients the best way that I can." Here is an entry level answer example: "When I am under pressure on the job, I try to focus on the job at hand. I like to make lists and prioritize activities that I need to accomplish." Here is an experienced answer example: "I think we all experience stress on different levels and from various triggers. For me, being self-aware has played a big role in my personal stress management. If I have things that I know need to be done on a specific day, I try to create a list and prioritize the order in which those things should be done. Learning to stay focused is a big stress reliever in and of itself."20. Do you feel like you have strong relationship building skills? Building strong relationships is essential for success of any business. The healthcare industry is no exception. Share why you think you have good relationship building skills. Here is an answer example: "I have often been complimented on my relationship building skills. I like to get to know people and ask them questions about themselves; I find it's a great and simple way to start building rapport with others. I consider myself to be a strong relationship builder and take pride in my 'people skills'." Here is an entry level answer example: "I do feel like I have good relationship building skills. I like people and enjoy getting to know them." Here is an experienced answer example: "I believe I have strong relationship building skills. I value the opinions of others and try to show respect to them. I find that having a caring attitude and a willingness to learn about others helps build relationships."21. What makes you feel motivated to do a good job? This question is practically begging you to highlight your positive attributes. So don't give a vague, generic response - it tells them very little about you. Instead, try and use this question as an opportunity to give the interviewer some insight into your character, and use examples where possible. Here is an answer example: "I've always been motivated by the challenge of a tough situation. In my last role, I came across a particular patient who refused to participate in any activities. I was told he was 'always gruff and impossible.' I talked with him and was able to find something we had in common, which calmed him down. After the patient saw me make an effort to better understand his situation, he became much more agreeable to my aide. I love facing and overcoming challenges on such a personal level." Here is an entry level answer example: "The feeling of knowing that I have the chance to improve the quality of life for someone really motivates me. There is just something about knowing that I can have a small part in the life of someone who is trusting me to care for them." Here is an experienced answer example: "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. Being able to encourage patients who may otherwise be alone, to get involved with activities and see their happiness when doing so makes my job as an activities aide all worthwhile."22. Tell me about one of your most memorable patients. As a nursing aide, you will have the opportunity to take care of many patients. There will most likely be at least a few who touch your life in a special way. The interviewer wants to know what makes a patient unforgettable to you. Here is an answer example: "I remember the first patient I was ever assigned to when I became a nursing aide. It was my first day to work on the hospital floor with my own patients. One of my patients was an elderly man who was very frail. I had to give him a bed bath and shave his face. The bath was fine, but I was so afraid to shave a man's face. He was calm and so sweet. He talked me through every step. To some people, they may not seem like a big deal, but to me, it meant the world." Here is an entry level answer example: "One of my favorite patients ever was an elderly lady that lived in a long-term care facility where I worked previously. Every morning she wanted her hair rolled and makeup done. It didn't matter if there was an activity or outing scheduled, or if she was just going to be 'home.' She said her mother always told her to look her best no matter what and that is what she did." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have so many patients that come to mind when you ask that question. One of the residents that lived in a nursing home where I used to work was a very special man. He had been a doctor before sickness and age made him have to retire and then move to the nursing home. He was very depressed when I first met him. He wouldn't come out of his room for any activities, wouldn't get dressed in anything but pajamas. I spent every extra moment I had with him, talking, telling stories. After a long time, he finally began to come out of his shell and tell me stories of when he was younger. He began to get dressed and even began to come to the dining room for meals if I would walk with him. I will never forget him."23. What would you describe as your biggest weakness? This is probably one of the most dreaded questions 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 key characteristic needed to perform your job. Here is an answer example: "I think one of my biggest weaknesses is that I can get sidetracked easily. I recognize that in myself and have made a conscious effort to plan my day as much as possible and to stay on target." Here is an entry level answer example: "One of my weaknesses is that I often get nervous around people I don't know. I know we all do that to a certain degree, but for me, it has become something that I am aware of. I now try to attend social activities where I know there are going to be opportunities to meet new people so that I can overcome social anxiety." Here is an experienced answer example: "My biggest weakness has got to be that I take on too many projects at once. While being involved and participating in various things is fun and can be good for a person, 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."24. What are important characteristics for a nursing aide to possess? Interviewers often ask questions like this for a couple of reasons. Chances are, whatever characteristics you would consider valuable in another person are characteristics that you possess. Your answer will give the interviewer an idea of what to expect from you. Here is an answer example: "I believe a nursing aide should be outgoing and love people. This is a great job, but it requires a lot of hands-on activity with patients. Being comfortable getting to know people is essential for this job." Here is an entry level answer example: "A nursing aide should definitely be flexible and easy to get along with. Working with people and coordinating daily care requires attention to detail and flexibility." Here is an experienced answer example: "I feel that a nurses aide should be focus driven, but also flexible. He/she should also be a great communicator, as we provide care and assist with activities of daily living for those who can't always do for themselves. A genuine love for people and a giving spirit are important."25. How would your coworkers describe you? Questions such as this one are asked with the aim of getting you to discuss some of your qualities, perhaps hidden that you wouldn't have mentioned if you weren't asked. Remember to share positives, but not sound conceited. Here is an answer example: "My colleagues will tell you that I am a team player and that I am someone they feel comfortable coming to when they need an extra hand or someone to talk to." Here is an entry level answer example: "I believe those that have worked with me would say that I am approachable and that I am willing to work hard to make teamwork effective." Here is an experienced answer example: "I feel confident that my coworkers would speak well of me. I am hardworking and passionate, not only for my patients, but an advocate for fellow employees, as well. I always try to show appreciation."26. Have you ever thought about furthering your career and becoming a nurse? Many times an interviewer will ask about your education aspirations to get a feel of whether or not you plan on staying within the healthcare arena. Additionally, some employers offer opportunities for employees to continue their educations while still working, often with tuition assistance in exchange for contract work. Here is an answer example: "There have been times when I considered nursing school, but at this point in my life, I really don't know if that is something I want to pursue. One thing I like about healthcare is the fact that, if I do ever desire to continue my education, I can continue to care for people." Here is an entry level answer example: "I actually enrolled in college with a non-healthcare related major. After a few semesters, though, I really felt like I wanted to pursue something that would allow me to care for people and be actively involved with helping them achieve better health. Becoming a nursing aide has been a great opportunity. I really don't have any plans, at this time, to get an additional degree." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have been a nursing aide for several years. While I feel I could attend nursing school and do very well, I am not sure that I want to change the type of care that I give. I believe nursing aides are an important part of the nursing care team. We are often the eyes and ears of the nurses because we spend a great deal of hands-on time with our patients. We never really know what the future holds, but for now, I don't foresee doing anything other than being a nursing aide."27. Can you recall a time when you had a disagreement with a co-worker or boss? If so, how was it resolved? Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.' Here is an answer example: "I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers, but really like to think of myself as more of a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved." Here is an entry level answer example: "I am a pretty easy-going person and do my best to avoid conflict. Like anyone else, I am sure there have been times that a co-worker and I have had a difference of opinion, but there has never been an instance that the disagreement was something that would have interfered with my work." Here is an experienced answer example: "I think the most common disagreement between myself and others have involved our personal feelings about how healthcare should be carried out. However, I have learned, as have most of the people that I have worked with, that while our opinions are important, plans of care are designated by strict guidelines and with the input of everyone on the care team as well as the patient. Learning to respect those guidelines and patient wishes usually resolve issues that arise."28. Being a nurses aide often requires a great deal of physical exertion. Are you comfortable with physically demanding assignments? The nursing profession can be physically demanding. Standing and walking for long stretches, assisting in lifting patients and staying awake for odd hours and long periods of time are some of the physical demands of the job. For the position that you are interviewing for, make sure to research what the physical demands are for the job and point out how you are able to handle those tasks. It can also be beneficial to discuss your self-care methods because being a nurse often requires being in great Here is an answer example: "Through my nursing aide career, I have spent many long hours on my feet and working shifts at non-traditional times. To be able to do this with ease, I have worked hard to be in the best physical shape that I can be by jogging on a regular basis, eating healthy and getting ample amounts of sleep each and every night." Here is an entry level answer example: "I understand that while working as a nursing aide I will be asked to do some pretty extreme physical activity. Lifting patients and standing for long hours at a time comes easily to me as I've participated in sports and strength training. Being in great shape and eating healthy is a lifestyle choice that I have made and it will definitely help me as I move forward in my career." Here is an experienced answer example: "I have always handled the physical requirements of the job with ease. Before lift systems were standard in inpatient rooms, we physically lifted patients into and out of their beds when needed. The long hours and standing for long periods of time come easily to me as well. I realized early in my career that I needed to care for myself and my physical well-being outside of work and I continue to do this to this day."29. Do you know what measures should be taken to help prevent a decubitus (pressure) ulcer? A decubitus ulcer is a sore that occurs on the skin that is the result of pressure of bony prominences upon the skin, such as heels of the feet, shoulder blades, and elbows. Nursing assistants are taught the importance of preventive measures when it comes to skin care. The interviewer wants to know that you have a clear understanding. Here is an answer example: "Decubitus ulcers can be prevented in most cases. One of the easiest ways to help prevent their development is by turning and repositioning patients at least every two hours." Here is an entry level answer example: "One of the first things I learned when I was taking nursing aide classes was the importance of protecting skin integrity. Making sure a patient's skin is clean and dry and that he/she is changed after any episode of incontinence is very important." Here is an experienced answer example: "There are several ways to help prevent the development of decubitus ulcers. Proper hydration, turning and repositioning every two hours, keeping bed linens clean, dry, and wrinkle-free are some ways. Also, for incontinent patients, making sure that they are clean and dry as soon as an incontinence episode occurs will help protect the skin."30. What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a nursing assistant? Sharing your experience or advice is a privilege. When an interviewer asks a question like this, he is trying to determine if you enjoy your work and what kind of impact you may have on people who are new to this field. Remember to be positive. Here is an answer example: "I would tell someone who is considering becoming a nursing assistant that it is one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. There is just something about being able to help people who are unable to care for themselves." Here is an entry level answer example: "If someone were asking me about becoming a nursing aide, I would tell them it is one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had. I never really understood how involved nursing aides are in direct patient care. Being able to spend time with patients and get to care for them, often when they are at their most vulnerable is a great experience." Here is an experienced answer example: "I love being a nursing aide. If someone were to tell me that they are considering becoming a nursing aide, I would be supportive of their choices. There are many careers that offer different opportunities, but being a nursing aide gives me the chance to get to know patients and care for them while assisting nurses and other healthcare personnel. It is a great career."