Congratulations on completing your Practical Nursing program at United Career Institute (UCI)! Now that you have finished this important step in your career journey, it is time to begin the process of securing a job.
UCI understands that the interview and hiring process can be stressful, especially for new graduates who are entering the healthcare field for the first time. UCI has compiled a list of common interview questions, practical nursing interview questions, and potential answers to help you navigate interviews.
Keep reading this blog to learn how to answer both frequently asked personal questions and specific practical nursing interview questions, and to get suggestions on what to ask your interviewer.
Common Interview Questions
You’ve probably encountered many of these interview prompts while applying for other positions throughout your career. These six “icebreaker” style questions allow the interviewer to get to know you, discover your skills and experience, and learn about your goals. It is important to answer these questions truthfully, but with professionalism and clarity.
Can you tell me about yourself?
This question is often the first thing an interviewer will ask a candidate. This is an opening to share any important information that is relevant to the position, including your schooling, skills, and what drew you to the profession. Be sure to highlight personality traits that make you a good candidate, past jobs, clinical experience, and education. This is the time to make a good impression, so it is important to reflect on yourself and practice what you will say before the interview.
What is your greatest strength?
It is important to tailor your response to the position you are applying for. As a practical nurse applying for positions in the healthcare field, your strengths could include teamwork, bedside manner, calmness under pressure, or adaptability. Be prepared to provide an example of a time you put this skill to use in a work or clinical setting.
What is your greatest weakness?
This and the previous question often are asked in tandem. While asking about weaknesses can seem like a trick question, it is often used to determine your self-awareness and willingness to learn. When preparing for this question, think about a real weakness you have– whether it be time management, shyness, or something else– and create a tangible plan for improving it.
How do you deal with conflict in the workplace?
While working as a practical nurse, it is inevitable that you will find yourself in some form of conflict within the workplace. Employers want to know that you can handle these potential conflicts professionally and efficiently. Using the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help you describe a time of conflict during your education or previous job, and how you worked to resolve it.
What are your salary requirements?
Discussing compensation is increasingly less taboo in the workplace and interviews as salary transparency becomes more common. Be prepared for the interviewer to ask about your salary expectations by researching the average salary for similar positions in your area and having an idea range in mind rather than a specific number.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Employers ask this question to understand your long-term ambitions and level of commitment. Consider what you envision for your professional future, such as returning to school for a higher degree, obtaining additional certifications, or moving into a managerial position.
Practical Nursing Interview Questions
Throughout the interview, you may be asked questions specifically related to being a practical nurse. Below are 5 possible career-specific questions that you should prepare for.
Why did you become a licensed practical nurse (LPN)?
This is an opportunity to share a special story or significant moment that inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare. For example, you might share that you were impacted by a nurse at some point in your life, that you have a passion for caring for others in vulnerable moments, or that you have a particular interest in the nursing field. These are all excellent reasons to pursue this career.
During your clinical rotations, what did you enjoy most? And the least?
This question allows employers to get a sense of your strengths in a clinical environment and to see whether you fit well with the pace, workload, stress, and culture of the workplace. It is important to be honest about the things that you excelled in and the aspects that you did not enjoy so both you and the employer can determine if the position is a good fit for you.
How do you stay up to date with the latest medical developments?
As a licensed practical nurse* fresh out of school, you are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Despite this, the healthcare world is constantly changing. Having a plan to stay informed about new developments and continuing education shows employers that you are committed to lifelong learning and providing quality patient care.
How do you comfort a patient who is feeling uneasy?
Practical nurses often work with patients who are ill or in a state of discomfort. Employers want to be sure that a potential employee has the soft skills needed to provide both comfort and care to patients. When an employer asks this question, think of a time during a simulation or clinical rotation when you had to communicate compassion and empathy to the patient, and how you felt during that moment.
How would you handle a situation where you disagree with the RN’s recommendation?
An employer might ask this question to determine if you’re confident in speaking up and advocating for your patients within a healthcare setting. As an LPN, you serve as the primary link between the patient and the healthcare team, making conflict resolution skills essential for managing tense situations.
Questions to Ask The Interviewer
At the conclusion of an interview, most employers will ask if the candidate has questions. Here are 4 questions that can demonstrate your engagement and genuine interest in the opportunity.
- Aside from the technical skills required for this role, what additional soft skills do you value in an employee?
- What do you find most enjoyable about working here?
- What is the usual career progression for someone in this role?
- When might I expect to hear more about this position?
Success Is Within Reach at UCI!
We hope these practical nursing interview questions have given you a stronger idea of what to expect during your job search process. For students who are considering a new healthcare career, at United Career Institute, you’re more than just a number; you’re part of a support system dedicated to helping you succeed academically and onward. UCI students and alumni have access to continued career services^, such as resume help, interview coaching, cover letter assistance, job placement, and additional support.
Take the first step toward a career as a licensed practical nurse* by requesting information from UCI today!
*Passing the NCLEX-PN licensure exam is required to become a Practical Nurse.
^Career Management Services are subject to specific conditions and requirements and continued campus operations. Please see the campus catalog for complete details.
Certifying entities are independent and not affiliated with or connected to United Career Institute in any manner.