30 Nursing Aide Interview Questions & Answers
1. What is one of the most difficult things about being a nursing aide?
How to Answer
Working in the healthcare field means there are days that are exciting and fun, and there are days that are sometimes difficult or sad. Being able to identify things that are difficult to you and learning to adjust to those difficult times while still performing your job well is an important skill for a nursing aide to learn. The interviewer wants to know what you consider 'difficult' and how you cope with those times.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
1st Answer Example
"As with most jobs, I'm sure we all have things that we wish we could change or find a way to make better. For me, one of the most difficult things is having a patient who has no family or friends to visit them. As a nursing aide, I have a number of people to care for daily and time is often of the essence. When I have a patient who has no one to come by and check on him or spend time with him, I find myself wanting to spend extra time with that patient. It is difficult sometimes, because time does not always allow for that."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Experienced
"One of the most difficult things for me has been having a patient who had no family to visit him, knowing he was dying. It is a hard thing and it happens more often than people realize. If I have a situation like that, I always try to get my work done and spend as much time as possible with that patient."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
2. Why do you think you are a good nursing aide?
How to Answer
This is a chance for you to 'sell yourself' to the interviewer. Share what you think sets you apart from other nursing aides who may be applying. Remember, be positive. Make sure to mention some of your personal qualities, such as compassion, rather than only your hard skills.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"I am passionate about being a good nursing aide and doing all I can to make a difference in the lives of my patients. I am a hard worker and believe in teamwork. I believe I could be an asset to the team of nursing aides that you already have working here."
Written by Darby Faubion
1st Answer Example
"I am a very committed and dedicated to my job and helping those I am responsible for giving care to. I feel I will bring a great sense of passion for my patients to this job and look forward to being a part of such a great team of nursing aides."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Experienced
"Even after all these years I look forward to waking up each morning and getting to work and helping patients begin to heal and get better faster. I'm willing to work longer hours if needed, as well. Since I have no children or domestic responsibilities, I can come to work really early and leave late without any hassles."
Written by Darby Faubion
3. In addition to providing care to patients/residents, nursing aides often have to talk with stressed out, and sometimes demanding, family members. How do you approach offering support to family members?
How to Answer
Patients in a hospital or nursing home are often facing uncertain outcomes. Family and patient supporters are naturally concerned and often anxious. Communicating your compassion and knack for comforting others will show an interviewer how well-rounded you are as a nursing aide.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"I know what it's like to be the family member who is worried about a loved one requiring critical care. I remember when my father was very ill. He had some nurses and nursing aides who were very kind and approachable. He had a few that were not so kind. I always try to remember how I 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."
Written by Darby Faubion
1st Answer Example
"Caring for family members often requires as much patience as caring for our patients. They are naturally afraid of a possible difficult outcome with regard to their loved ones. I always try to speak kindly and offer time to answer questions and give family members an opportunity to talk about what concerns them. 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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Experienced
"Each family has a different dynamic. A skilled nursing aide tries to recognize the specific personalities of those for whom she is caring, as well as those of the loved ones. When time allows, I try to 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 usually has a positive effect on the patient."
Written by Darby Faubion
4. Being a nursing aide requires a great deal of attention to detail and often multi-tasking. What do you do to help keep yourself from becoming overwhelmed?
How to Answer
Nursing aides are often assigned several patients to care for in a day. The ability to multitask and ensure all details are checked and double-checked is important..
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"I have learned to recognize the things that may cause me to feel overwhelmed and try to address them before a situation gets out of hand. For example, I always like to check my daily assignments at the end of my shift and then again the next day before a new shift begins. This helps me to stay on task and prepare for events in a timely manner without leaving me feeling overwhelmed later on."
Written by Darby Faubion
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5. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you look for in a candidate, and do you think you possess those qualities?
How to Answer
There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"If I were hiring someone, I would look for someone who is passionate about the job and about patient care. I also feel that being approachable and willing to learn is very important."
Written by Darby Faubion
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6. Do you feel like you have good problem solving skills?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion
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7. What are some of the most difficult patients to work with as a nursing aide?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion
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8. What made you want to become a nursing aide?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion
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9. Has there ever been a time when you received negative feedback, and how did you handle it?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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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?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion
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11. Have you ever had an issue with a supervising nurse, and if so, how did you handle it?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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12. What are some things that you do to help promote balance in your life?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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13. How would you deal with an angry patient, and why?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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14. Tell me about a time you were trusted with confidential information.
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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15. In your opinion, what personality type is best suited for being a nursing aide?
How to Answer
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..
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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16. How long have you been a nurses aide?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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17. Nursing aides at our facility often work on rotation. Are you willing to work, nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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18. What are your primary interests outside of work?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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19. How do you handle stressful situations?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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20. Do you feel like you have strong relationship building skills?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"I do feel like I have good relationship building skills. I like people and enjoy getting to know them."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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21. What makes you feel motivated to do a good job?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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22. Tell me about one of your most memorable patients.
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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23. What would you describe as your biggest weakness?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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24. What are important characteristics for a nursing aide to possess?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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25. How would your coworkers describe you?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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26. Have you ever thought about furthering your career and becoming a nurse?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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27. Can you recall a time when you had a disagreement with a co-worker or boss? If so, how was it resolved?
How to Answer
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.'
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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28. Being a nurses aide often requires a great deal of physical exertion. Are you comfortable with physically demanding assignments?
How to Answer
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
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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29. Do you know what measures should be taken to help prevent a decubitus (pressure) ulcer?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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30. What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming a nursing assistant?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
Entry Level
"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."
Written by Darby Faubion on November 29th, 2018
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