RN: Job Interview

[ablnrp]

Finally, after 3 months of applying to different facilities and all different types of positions I have an interview. I'm just curious of some often asked questions for RN positions. It's a critical care position, although I don't think that part will matter for the interview process. I want to be as prepared as possible. I've never had a medical job so I don't know what sort of questions it entails.

Thank you

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Click on the link below to read about 23 common interview questions:

http://www.wisebread.com/how-to-answer-23-of-the-most-common-interview-questions

Although the interview questions in the website link are not specific to nursing, I have been asked many of these same questions while being interviewed for nursing positions. Expect to be asked why you should be hired, how have you handled difficult situations, how have you dealt with an unhappy customer, and so forth.

[LoveMyBugs, BSN, CNA, RN]

Not only prepare for questions that they are asking you, you should have a list of questions for them. Research allnurses there are quite a few threads on preparing for interviews.

http://www.ultimatenurse.com/questions-to-ask-in-your-job-interview/54/

Understand the orientation and continuing education process offered.

How long will my orientation last?

Will I be offered additional time if I feel I need it?

Will my orientation be provided on the shift I will be working?

Will I have a preceptor or mentor?

Is there an internship program for new grads?

How often do you offer in-services and other education opportunities?

What are your expectations for new hires during the first six months?

Are nurse educators available on all shifts?

Ask about the working conditions.

What is the typical nurse-to-patient ratio on this unit? Is there a maximum?

What are the days/hours available? How long are the shifts?

What is the policy for weekend and holiday rotation?

Is there flexibility to the schedule? Can nurses trade days off with each other?

Who does the scheduling?

Is there mandatory overtime? How often?

Is there an on-call responsibility? If so, explain the requirements and conditions.

How many nurses work on this unit? On each shift?

How long have most of the nurses worked on this unit? (Turn over rate?)

How long has this position been vacant? Why did the previous person leave?

Then ask about the management and administration.

How do you motivate your employees?

What do you do to boost morale?

What is your management style?

How much autonomy do your nurses feel they have?

How do you demonstrate that you value your nursing staff?

How often are performance evaluations done and what is the process?

How much input does the staff have about patient care and other issues on the unit?

How do you handle conflict between staff members?

Are there any challenges that this unit or facility is facing or anticipates in the next year?

Would you support a nurse looking to transfer for career growth or hold him/her back due to your own staffing issues?

How do you ensure safe working conditions for your staff?

What are the career growth opportunities?

Why would I want to work here?

Salary and Benefits

Typically the interviewer will bring up this subject first so wait and follow their lead, but be sure you understand thoroughly and make your negotiations up front.What is the salary? Is there a shift differential involved?

What is the salary policy regarding weekends, holidays and overtime?

What is included in the benefits package? Is there a salary adjustment allowed if some benefits are waived such as health insurance that your spouse provides?

How much vacation, sick leave and other time off and how is the time accrued?

How are raises handled? Are there merit increases, cost-of-living adjustments, etc.? How often are they given? What is the typical amount?

Are there any tuition reimbursement plans?

Are there any incentives such as sign-on bonuses, concierge services, mortgage or housing assistance plans, etc.? What are the specifics of these options?

http://www.ultimatenurse.com/questions-to-ask-in-your-job-interview/54/

[nasruasim]

I had an interview for an Emergency RN last week and among many questions they gave some scenarios and asked how I would handle those situations. Those scenarios were designed to test my knowledge and ability to handle emergency situations as a RN. So I guess you should be prepared for scenarios from your specialized area as well.

[ablnrp]

Is it looked down upon if I were to bring a list of questions with me to my interview? Or is it best to try and remember all of the ones I'd like to ask?

[LoveMyBugs, BSN, CNA, RN]

You can bring in a list, because if you try and remeber you are going to get nervous and forget them. Be sure to research the facility talior the questions. You can keep a note pad out with your questions and take notes during the interview incase you think of other questions during the interview