MockQuestions

Situational Nursing Mock Interview

To help you prepare for your nursing interview, here are 50 situational nursing interview questions and answer examples.

Situational Nursing was updated by on May 30th, 2023. Learn more here.

Question 3 of 50

How would you explain a complex task to someone using verbal instructions?

"I read once that most newspapers are written at a 5th grade level so that most people can understand the message. I think that today we are inundated with verbal messages and written messages, so what we choose to say should be prime real estate. That means no filler or fluff words for me, and to speak in a way that the patient or family can understand. Nurses are so used to throwing big words and acronyms around, and personally I am mindful not to do that. I break the information down into bite sized pieces and frequently check in with the person to see if they are understanding. I ask them to repeat back what I explained to them. I also watch them closely for non-verbal signs of confusion. I always feel so good when the patient is able to understand my instructions right away!"

Next Question

How to Answer: How would you explain a complex task to someone using verbal instructions?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Situational Nursing job interview.

  • 3. How would you explain a complex task to someone using verbal instructions?

      How to Answer

      Teaching patients in a way they can understand is an integral part of nursing. Healthcare is increasingly complex, so it makes sense that the instructions can be, as well. This question provides a chance to showcase your talent to take a complicated idea and explain it without losing the integrity of dumbing it down.

      Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021

      1st Answer Example

      "I read once that most newspapers are written at a 5th grade level so that most people can understand the message. I think that today we are inundated with verbal messages and written messages, so what we choose to say should be prime real estate. That means no filler or fluff words for me, and to speak in a way that the patient or family can understand. Nurses are so used to throwing big words and acronyms around, and personally I am mindful not to do that. I break the information down into bite sized pieces and frequently check in with the person to see if they are understanding. I ask them to repeat back what I explained to them. I also watch them closely for non-verbal signs of confusion. I always feel so good when the patient is able to understand my instructions right away!"

      Written by Dianne Barnard on March 9th, 2021

      2nd Answer Example

      "Because we can't know always know a patient's health literacy level, it's important to try to explain concepts about a patient's care in a way that anyone can understand. When I have to explain a complex task, such as how to check your own blood glucose, verbally only, I make sure to use simple terms and avoid healthcare jargon. I 'chunk' the main points so that I'm not explaining too many concepts at once. I speak slowly. And I ask the patient to repeat back the instructions to me, so I can check for understanding."

      Written by Kate Buckley on January 10th, 2023

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "See what their baseline is and then fill in knowledge gaps from there. Break it down into smaller or simpler steps and frequently check in with the person to see if they understood. If I can use props or visuals I do. Teach back method is very effective and asking how they learn best so you can help make it easier for them to retain the info."

      Cindy's Feedback

      Good start. This question is well suited to using an example that shows your approach in action. Can you think of a recent example to share?

    • Next Question

    About the Author

    Krista Wenz

    I began my career in emergency medical services (EMS) over 30 years ago, working as a Firefighter-Paramedic, EMS Captain, Mental Health Technician, ER Technician, EMT and Paramedic Adjunct Instructor, and EMS Educator. During my career, I had the privilege of serving on over one thousand interview panels to help various organizations choose the right candidate for the job.

    I have created curricula and training materials to prepare candidates for interviews and held mock interview courses for all types of healthcare professionals. My interview experience includes hiring emergency medical technicians, paramedics, firefighters, nurses, medical assistants, home health aides, and physician assistants.

    As a coach and contributor for MockQuestions, I am excited to help you navigate your upcoming nursing interview. While these situational questions assess your critical thinking and communication skills, interviewers also ask these questions to gain insight into your personality to determine if you will be a good fit with the company culture. Remember to be relaxed and be your authentic self. Best of luck in nailing your interview!

    Learn more about Krista Wenz