Helpppp! What question should I ask at the end of my interview??

RN403, BSN, RN · Oct 12, 2014

I would not ask about benefits or the pay at this point. That is a discussion that you will have later on with Human Resources when an offer for employment is extended. I would ask about the nurse to patient ratio, ask what the most common conditions are that you will see on that floor, ask about continuing education courses, how long your orientation period will be, and etc.

There are many threads on this topic that you might find of assistance. Good luck at the interview!

Columnist · Oct 12, 2014

Moved to Nursing Interview Help for more response.

kiszi, RN · Oct 12, 2014

I had an interview recently where I wanted to ask something meaningful at the end, but couldn't think of a question that hadn't already been answered. So I asked a "clarifying" question about schedules or some such, "So the schedule is blah blah, right?". At least they knew I was paying attention!

I also like "what is your orientation process like?"

I have to agree with not bringing up pay or benefits.

UnaNayeli · Oct 12, 2014

I've always found it to my advantage not to try "outsmarting" interviewers. If they've read your resume, they know your background/ experience.

i simply ask, "Can you tell me what to expect next in the hiring process? Can I call (e-mail?) you next Friday to follow up on our interview," or some variant on that thought. I have always received positive, professional responses to such inquiries.

Good luck in growing your career!

GraceRN1913 · Oct 12, 2014

Thanks so much for your advice!!!

GraceRN1913 · Oct 12, 2014

Awesome! Thanks for the input!!

GraceRN1913 · Oct 12, 2014

Ok, that's great advice, thanks so much!

cowboy up · Oct 17, 2014

Asking about nurse to patient ratios is a good starting point and I would definitely ask how long your orientation period would be. I have worked in facilities where I was given a cart on day one with no orientation at all. Just follow your instincts and you'll be fine

Clovery · Oct 17, 2014

If the interview is with the unit manager I like to ask about the current goals and initiatives for the unit, like what was discussed at the last staff meeting. Then you can learn if they're trying to improve infection control, pain management, skin assessments upon admission, etc. Be prepared with a comment like "I know how important it is to be very thorough and document any abnormalities in skin integrity so the facility isn't responsible for them." Or "I'm very proactive with pain management - I work with my patients and discuss when they need pain medication most like before a dressing change or physical therapy."

Nienna Celebrindal · Oct 20, 2014

I did a group interview with 3 people and they all told me that they loved this question (I asked several): "Lets pretend you hire me and its a year later at my annual review, you tell me I've done a fantastic job. What did I do for you to say that?"

The unit manager told me she liked that question because she felt that I knew it was the big picture at stake, not just getting a job.