18 Nursing Soft Skills Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Nursing Soft Skills interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Compassion
1. Why is compassionate caring necessary in nursing?
How to Answer
As the saying goes, people may not remember what you say, but they always remember how you made them feel. A nurse can graduate at the top of their class and have outstanding technical skills, but without compassion, they are not as effective as they could be.
Nurses must be competent and provide compassionate care across all healthcare settings; however, competency does not guarantee compassion, and the interviewer is looking for evidence that you possess both. Discuss why you believe compassionate care is a critical approach and provide details on how you deliver compassionate care in nursing.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Compassionate care combines trust, dignity, respect and more with the patient, their families, and the expanded healthcare team. For me, compassion and empathy are intertwined and feel like the foundational base for a trusting patient/nurse relationship. When I bond with my patient compassionately and professionally, communication is more open, creating a better understanding of their needs. The more I understand, the better care I deliver."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Compassion
2. How do you demonstrate compassionate care in nursing?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know precisely how you demonstrate compassion in your daily work. When you respond, rather than simply list the 6 C's of compassionate care, show the interviewer that you have a personal philosophy that you implement on the job. Share your philosophy and discuss how you incorporate compassionate care principles into the daily care of patients.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe in respectful communication, professional boundaries, and ensuring my patients feel safe in my care. I take the time to understand my patients' medical reports, and then I ask the patient what I can do or improve on to ensure they are getting the best care. A significant component to delivering compassionate care is also to be culturally aware."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Compassion
3. What does compassionate care mean to you?
How to Answer
Showing empathy to those suffering and supporting them with dignity and respect is integral in nursing care. Compassion is the process of advocating for a patient's well-being while trying to find solutions to their suffering. Interviewers are looking for evidence of your compassion in your response. They also want to see that your approach to compassionate care aligns with that of the facility.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Compassionate care is synonymous with my nursing practice. I want to deliver exceptional physical care and extraordinary emotional care at the same time. My philosophy is that we cannot separate the mind from the body, and outcomes are better when we have high regard for both. I want the patient to believe that they have dignity and deserve respect no matter what is unfolding. Compassionate care combines medical and emotional care that allows the patient to feel safe and valued while receiving extraordinary medical attention. Should I be chosen for this nursing position, I will show compassionate care by acting as a courageous advocate for my patient."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Conflict Resolution
4. How do you handle it when an interpersonal conflict arises in your unit?
How to Answer
Nursing is a challenging enough career, and nobody wants a loose cannon or an icy individual on their unit. When co-workers exhibit unhealthy emotional responses to conflict, that energy creates lasting damage. It can make others feel uncomfortable, take sides, or gossip, plummeting team morale.
The interviewer wants to know that you can handle interpersonal conflict without exploding or imploding. Show that you are a nurse with emotional intelligence, and you can experience conflict at work without the situation impacting your job performance.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Of course, I would like to say that I react to interpersonal conflict wonderfully and effectively 100% of the time, but that's not realistic. I actively work to live my life on a pretty even keel emotionally. That is, I don't veer too widely off-center with my emotions. This approach allows me to handle let-downs, conflict, and other problems with balance instead of reeling wildly and being reactionary. I have learned to address interpersonal conflicts right away so they do not fester and become inflated. For instance, I might ask the person. 'Hey, I feel a strain between us, and I'd like to talk it over. Is now a good time?' I use 'I' statements and own my feelings. I don't go down the 'you make me feel' route because that sounds accusatory. I think about the outcome I'd like to achieve and remain focused on that. I believe that open conversations are important, and they are the foundation to building a healthy team."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Conflict Resolution
5. How do you deal with differences of opinion when working among a team of healthcare providers?
How to Answer
As a nurse, much of your job requires coming to a consensus with your team of healthcare professionals on a patient care approach and then enthusiastically carrying out that plan. Some team members who do not support the final decision may grumble and be reluctant. They may even be verbal about the outcome in a very public way. This behavior can destroy morale and undermine the function of a team.
Interviewers seek nursing candidates who can confidently present and advocate for their best ideas. They also seek nurses who can be accepting and supportive when other people's ideas are chosen. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of supporting team-based decisions, even if you have a difference of opinion. Consider a time when your team was divided and could not come to a consensus.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"A high-functioning healthcare team will have diverse opinions and ideas. This diversity in opinion can make it tough to ensure that everyone agrees on the same approach at all times. I also understand it takes a lot of time and effort to build a cohesive team. For instance, thinking back to the rock tumbler I had as a child. It took a lot of loud noise and stones bumping up against each other to create beautiful gemstones. Just because five people are in the same room doesn't mean they are a team. When I am facing a difference of opinion, I take the time to understand how my team members are thinking and how they have reached their preferred decision. If I can see that the consensus leans toward the best outcome for the team, unit, facility, and most of all, the patient, I will set my idea aside and enthusiastically contribute to the team."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Conflict Resolution
6. How do you handle communicating with an upset patient?
How to Answer
As a nurse, it takes a lot of emotional intelligence, empathy, and people skills to negotiate your way through a situation involving an upset patient. Although this is a common situation to experience as a healthcare professional, it does not mean accepting abusive behaviors. The interviewer is looking for evidence that you can handle conflict-based situations without overreacting or causing the problem to worsen. Show that you understand the importance of responding to an upset patient quickly, authentically, and in a facility-centered way.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Nursing is hard work, and I believe that all healthcare professionals deserve respectful communication. If I felt verbally abused or disrespected, I would remove myself from the situation and bring the issue to my immediate supervisor. A patient will lash out in most instances due to pain, grief, confusion, or other strong emotions. I understand that and do not take it personally. I don't think it's constructive to ignore situations like this and go about the day. This approach could invalidate a patient or a patients' family and make them more isolated. If I were at fault for a situation that caused a patient to feel angry, I would earnestly and honestly apologize and ask what I can do to resolve their concerns."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Critical Thinking
7. Talk about a problem you faced at work and how you applied critical thinking to address the situation.
How to Answer
Critical thinking is the ability to solve problems and make the best decisions based on your expertise. Nursing requires you to constantly showcase your critical thinking skills since you face unique situations every day. At the same time, you must make decisions and take actions consistent with regulations in your region.
Since the interviewer asks you to tell them about a time when you faced a problem, it's essential to use a real-life example when you respond. Show the interviewer that you are a strong critical thinker and that your approach to problem-solving aligns with their facility's values.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"A few months ago, I smelled alcohol on a co-worker's breath during the morning report. The laws around practicing healthcare while intoxicated are clear - it's illegal. Aside from the legalities, the nurse could have caused harm to others or herself. I also knew that I needed to protect our facility from potential mistakes or malpractice. Although it was awkward, I pulled my co-worker aside, and I spoke frankly to her. I mentioned that she smelled like alcohol, and I was concerned for both her and our patients. She told me she had been out at a bachelorette party late the night before then came in for her morning shift. She agreed to go to our nursing manager, admit the situation, and then go home. Ultimately, my approach encouraged the best outcome for everyone. Since she went home, my co-worker didn't lose her license, and there was no risk of potential harm due to impairment. As a nurse, I encounter daily problems to solve. My role is a practice-based discipline of higher-level thinking to ensure that I deliver safe care to all patients."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Critical Thinking
8. Please walk us through your decision-making process.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can assess a situation, weigh your options, decide on a course of action, and implement a solution confidently. As a nurse, when you need to make an important decision, it's essential that you critically think through the scenario and the outcome. You certainly do not make decisions based on a 'gut instinct,' and you do not delay important decisions because you need to do extensive research. You also know that, although you may need the right people to weigh in before you make a decision, asking a multitude of team members for their opinion is not a resourceful approach. Walk the interviewer through your decision-making process and show them that your approach is a good fit for their work environment.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"A career in nursing has been great to me in many ways. It has given me a job that I love and has provided me with an exceptional framework for decision-making. When facing an important decision, I sort out my emotions first because high emotions tend to hinder intelligent decisions. Then, I look at the subjective information and the objective information. I assess the situation, develop a plan, implement it, and then evaluate the outcome. If my decision did not achieve the desired result, I re-evaluate and repeat the process until I achieve the best outcome."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Critical Thinking
9. Describe a time when you had to make a decision where there was no perfect outcome.
How to Answer
Decisions don't always result in a perfect outcome. As a nurse, you know that making choices around health means that sometimes you're choosing between two unpleasant outcomes. However, a decision still needs to be made. The interviewer wants to know how you triage situations to arrive at the best conclusion. Showcase your critical thinking skills while providing a story-based example of when you faced a related scenario.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"When faced with minimal positive outcomes, I try to make decisions based on which will cause the least amount of damage. For instance, during COVID, my unit shut down, and the hospital wanted to pull the GI nurses to the COVID units. It was the beginning of COVID, and no vaccinations were available. Also, the hospital was not providing alternate assignments to the nursing staff. I am the primary caregiver for my elderly parents, who wear oxygen. I loved working at my job in GI and had been there for ten years, and I needed the income to take care of my parents. I faced a difficult situation with no actual ideal outcome. I went to HR, but everyone was clamoring for better assignments. The option of quitting was terrifying, but the prospect of bringing COVID home to my parents was even more frightening. I ended up resigning from my position after a two-week notice. Looking back at the decision, I am glad that I did what it took to protect my parents. They remained healthy through COVID, and I quickly secured new employment."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Empathy
10. How do you handle it when a workplace situation makes you feel angry or frustrated?
How to Answer
Feelings of anger or frustration are bound to occur when working in a healthcare environment where situations can become hectic or high-pressure. Yet, not everyone has the skill set to handle those feelings well. As a skilled nurse, what differentiates you is the emotional intelligence you possess, allowing you to react to feelings of anger appropriately.
Everyone feels angry from time to time. When you respond, be honest and show that you are an authentic person rather than stating that you never feel angry. The interviewer is looking for evidence that can deal with conflict in a healthy way. If you have experienced a relatable situation, consider telling a brief story highlighting your ability to react to feelings of anger or frustration appropriately.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I continually work on building my EQ, including my ability to handle feelings of frustration or anger in an emotionally intelligent way. I used to work with a physician who would say, 'when emotions run high, intelligence runs low.' When facing a situation where emotions run high, I try to sort out my feelings and stay focused on finding a solution. Using this approach, I avoid taking a situation personally and work towards an outcome that benefits everyone. Reacting poorly or having an outburst is not an option because the team and the patients suffer, and the outcome is never positive. I choose to react in a manner that benefits everyone and reflects well on my team and me."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Empathy
11. How do you approach delivering sensitive or discouraging news?
How to Answer
Nursing is front-line, demanding work, and you often deal with families and patients in crisis. Typically, it is not the nurse's responsibility to deliver sensitive or discouraging news about lab work or a diagnosis, for instance. However, you may face situations like telling someone their loved one was unexpectedly taken to surgery.
Talk to the interviewer about your approach to delivering news that may be sensitive or discouraging. Show that you are professional and empathetic when communicating sensitive information to others. If you have experienced a situation like this, consider including a story that showcases your approach.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"Delivering sensitive or discouraging news is part of my responsibility as a nurse, and I must do this in a way that is professional yet shows empathy toward the person receiving the news. First, I make certain that it's my news to tell and that I have the authority and responsibility to deliver the information. If it's my information to deliver, I do not avoid that responsibility. I center myself and think of the situation from the other person's perspective. When possible, I make certain that I schedule time so I do not have to leave abruptly after delivering the news. I stay in their space and be silent but present if needed. The presence of someone else can be very comforting to a person feeling anxious or upset after receiving sensitive news."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Empathy
12. How do you respond when a patient asks for your help with a delicate situation?
How to Answer
Helping a patient with a delicate or sensitive situation requires good problem-solving skills paired with empathy. As a nurse, it is easy to react to most patient's clinical problems; however, with this question, the interviewer wants insight into how you approach problem-solving when an empathetic approach is required.
Express that you would offer genuine help rather than give generic comfort to a patient who truly needs you. Show that you can handle potentially uncomfortable situations with poise and professionalism. If you have experienced a similar scenario, consider telling a brief story that highlights your ability to be empathetic when needed.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I love the saying, 'healing begins when people feel heard.' Whether or not I can help to solve the issue, I am always willing to listen. Sometimes people just need to be heard. If a patient comes to me with a problem that may be sensitive, I will give them my full attention. I work to understand what is concerning them. If it's appropriate, I will offer suggestions on how to address the situation. I use the SOAPIER approach (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Planning, Implementing, Evaluating, Reassessing) for nearly every problem. I know this approach is often used in healthcare, and for good reason as it works for just about every problem, even situations where I need to extend empathy while also helping to problem-solve."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Initiative
13. What do you know about our facility and team culture?
How to Answer
If you didn't do your homework on the facility before your interview, it would become evident with a question like this! This question deserves a specific response tailored to each organization with which you are interviewing. Before the meeting, take some time to look at the facility or system you are applying to work in. Know their mission statement, who they serve, if they are public or private, and more. You can discover helpful information on Healthgrades.com.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I took time to research Organization ABC before our meeting today, and found some exciting information. I especially appreciate your organization's commitment to having at least 80% BSN or better by 2025. The nursing leadership is also impressive, and I've read several of Dr. Doctor's articles on WebMD. Also, I have been following the organization's social media accounts since I graduated from nursing school and have noticed a strong correlation between patient care and commitment to the community. On the lighter side, I see that your teams participate in a marathon every year, raising funds for charity. This initiative is one I would love to participate in as well."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Initiative
14. If hired to join our nursing team, what will you accomplish in the first 30 days?
How to Answer
Just like you must prepare information about the hiring company, you must attend your interview prepared to discuss what you will achieve if hired. Your first 30 days goals should align with the mission of the organization and your accountabilities in this nursing role.
Include personal and professional goals at work such as getting to know your peers, possibly joining a work-based social group to meet people, take advantage of Continuing Education Units (CEU) or even enroll in a course. Show the interviewer that you are prepared to invest in their organization, your new team, and in yourself.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am interested in exploring everything that this organization has to offer. In my first 30 days, I expect to attend hospital-wide orientation and then a unit orientation. I would be eager to meet my new co-workers on my unit, and I would love to get involved in a hospital project such as a focus group or club. Aside from these team-building activities, I would make a strong impression on my new team by absorbing their advice and observing how my co-workers collaborate smoothly during a shift. Continued education is important to me, so I would speak with HR about the best approach to gaining CEU's. I also heard this facility has a great medical library, and I cannot wait to explore it!"
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Initiative
15. How do you approach taking responsibility for your mistakes?
How to Answer
Everyone makes mistakes, and the focus of your response is not to show perfection. The interviewer wants to know how you handle it when you have made an error.
Mistakes can be embarrassing; however, there are healthy ways to admit you've done something wrong and repair the situation. Show the interviewer that you deal with mistakes in a way that leads to a resolution vs. ignoring the error or making it worse.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I discover that I've made a mistake, I sort my emotions, and then I go about fixing the situation. This action includes admitting my mistake to the people who need to know and asking for feedback to make it right. I will assess who my error has impacted and if I need to apologize to anyone. It's important that when I make an error, I repair the situation thoroughly, regardless of whether this may bruise my ego or make me feel vulnerable."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Work Ethic
16. What does having a strong work ethic mean to you?
How to Answer
Work ethic is 'the principle that hard work is intrinsically virtuous or worthy of reward.' When you value the concept of having a solid work ethic, you are showing that you place value in delivering high-quality work.
Having a solid work ethic is essential in any job and extremely important in healthcare. People's lives depend on your dedication as a nurse to going above and beyond for the best possible outcome. The interviewer wants to see that you have a strong inner compass that guides you to deliver work considered 'virtuous' and 'worthy of reward.' Provide evidence that you are committed to doing a terrific job every day.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"To me, having a strong work ethic means taking a task and doing it incredibly well, no matter the circumstances. I have been a nurse for ten years, and every day I deliver work that makes me feel proud. I value my ability to make a difference in the lives of my patients, and I strive to honor my profession by doing my best every day."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Work Ethic
17. What is your approach to teamwork?
How to Answer
Working on a team is not the most suitable environment for everyone; however, as a nurse, you must collaborate with your healthcare team at all times. The interviewer wants to know that you value teamwork and how you operate in a team setting. Talk about how you support your team and describe how you communicate with others, ensuring your team moves as one cohesive group.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"One of the foundational principles to successful healthcare is teamwork. I need to be a strong team member to other nurses, various healthcare disciplines, patients, and families. My approach to teamwork includes supporting my leadership team and trusting them to make the best decisions possible. I follow the groups' decisions unless they fail to align with my morals or healthcare philosophy. I do not take any conflict personally, and I always view a crisis as an opportunity to rise. Sometimes, nursing brings a chaotic work environment with opinions and viewpoints coming from many directions. As an avid team player, I make it my business to know the scope of my practice and practice within those boundaries when things are busy on the floor."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Work Ethic
18. Describe how your work ethic extends to your everyday life.
How to Answer
Many psychologists and writers have expressed, 'the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior.' This adage can also go for how closely a person's actions align inside and outside of work.
The interviewer is looking for patterns in your behavior and actions. For instance, if you are always late in your personal life, it is unlikely you are always on time for work. Talk about your work ethic and discuss how your ethics are in alignment personally and professionally.
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021
Answer Example
"I lead my personal and professional life based on my values of integrity and responsibility. My work ethic extends to my everyday life in each action and decision, no matter how large or small. I display this by being on time for all of my commitments inside and outside of the workplace. I complete tasks, no matter how unpleasant, because they need to get done. I also do what I say that I will do, being a person of my word. I am a caregiver even outside of my nursing career. I help others, give what I can, and take only what I need."
Written by Cecilia Good on September 14th, 2021