Top 32 Acute Care Nurse Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Embarking on a career as an Acute Care Nurse requires not only clinical expertise but also the ability to shine in interviews. In this blog post, we've compiled the most common interview questions for this crucial role, complete with example answers and insightful tips to help you respond with confidence and clarity. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer, prepare to ace your interview and make a lasting impression.
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List of Acute Care Nurse Interview Questions
Situational Interview Questions
How would you handle a situation where a patient suddenly deteriorates after surgery?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and assess the situation quickly
- 2
Check vital signs and identify any immediate concerns
- 3
Notify the surgical team and call for help if necessary
- 4
Provide appropriate interventions based on the patient's condition
- 5
Document the incident accurately for further review
Example Answers
If a patient deteriorates after surgery, I would remain calm, quickly assess their vital signs, and look for any specific signs of distress. I'd immediately notify the surgical team while providing any necessary interventions like oxygen support or IV fluids.
If you suspect a colleague is not following protocols for patient safety, what would you do?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the situation carefully before taking action
- 2
Document any specific observations or incidents
- 3
Speak directly to the colleague in a private setting if appropriate
- 4
Report the concern to a supervisor or the appropriate authority if necessary
- 5
Follow up to ensure that the issue is resolved
Example Answers
If I noticed a colleague not adhering to patient safety protocols, I would first observe and document specific instances. Then, I might approach them in a private conversation to discuss my concerns. If I felt that the situation warranted it, I would escalate the issue to my supervisor to ensure patient safety.
Don't Just Read Acute Care Nurse Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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If there is a disagreement among team members during a critical care situation, how would you facilitate resolution?
How to Answer
- 1
Remain calm and assess the situation objectively
- 2
Listen to each team member's perspective without interruption
- 3
Encourage open communication and clarify misunderstandings
- 4
Focus on the patient's needs as the primary goal
- 5
Propose a collaborative solution that incorporates team input
Example Answers
In a disagreement, I would first stay calm and ask each team member to express their views. By listening carefully, I can identify any misunderstandings and refocus the discussion on patient care, encouraging everyone to collaborate on a solution.
A patient expresses severe pain after a procedure. How would you assess and manage their pain?
How to Answer
- 1
Start by assessing the pain using a scale from 1 to 10.
- 2
Ask specific questions about the pain's location, duration, and quality.
- 3
Check the patient's vital signs to identify any physiological changes.
- 4
Administer prescribed pain relief medication as appropriate.
- 5
Reassess the pain after medication administration to evaluate effectiveness.
Example Answers
I would first ask the patient to rate their pain on a scale of 1 to 10, and inquire about the pain's characteristics. Then, I would check their vital signs and administer the prescribed pain medication. Finally, I would reassess their pain level 30 minutes after medication to see if their condition improved.
What would you do if you noticed a potential infection control breach in your unit?
How to Answer
- 1
Immediately assess the situation to understand the breach
- 2
Notify your supervisor or charge nurse about the issue
- 3
Take steps to contain the breach if possible
- 4
Follow the facility's protocol for reporting infection control issues
- 5
Document your observations and actions taken
Example Answers
If I noticed an infection control breach, I would quickly assess the situation and confirm what I observed. I would notify my supervisor right away so they could take appropriate action. If safe to do so, I would try to contain the breach, like stopping the procedure or ensuring equipment is cleaned properly, and I would document everything I did.
How would you communicate with a family member who is distressed about a patient's condition?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen actively to the family member's concerns
- 2
Acknowledge their feelings and show empathy
- 3
Give clear and honest information about the patient's condition
- 4
Encourage questions and provide concise answers
- 5
Offer support resources, such as counseling or hospital chaplain services
Example Answers
I would start by listening to the family member's concerns without interrupting them, showing I care. Then, I would acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that it's okay to be distressed. I would provide clear updates about the patient's condition and encourage them to ask any questions they might have.
You have multiple patients needing urgent care simultaneously. How do you prioritize your tasks?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess each patient's condition quickly and identify life-threatening situations.
- 2
Utilize a systematic approach like the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, Circulation).
- 3
Communicate with your team and delegate tasks when possible.
- 4
Document patient needs and actions taken as you prioritize.
- 5
Stay calm and focused to make informed decisions under pressure.
Example Answers
I quickly assess each patient's condition and prioritize based on immediate needs, focusing on those in the most critical condition first. For example, I would ensure that any patient who is not breathing gets immediate attention while delegating tasks to other team members for those who are stable.
How would you approach care for a patient from a different cultural background with specific health beliefs?
How to Answer
- 1
Acknowledge the patient's cultural background and its impact on health beliefs.
- 2
Ask open-ended questions to understand their specific beliefs and preferences.
- 3
Involve the patient in their care plan to ensure it aligns with their beliefs.
- 4
Educate yourself on cultural competencies relevant to different backgrounds.
- 5
Communicate clearly and empathetically, ensuring the patient feels heard and respected.
Example Answers
I would start by recognizing and respecting the patient's cultural background. Then, I would ask them about their specific health beliefs to understand how these may influence their treatment. By involving them in the care plan, I can ensure their preferences are integrated into their care.
How would you educate a patient about their discharge medications in an understandable way?
How to Answer
- 1
Use simple language free of medical jargon
- 2
Provide a written summary of medication instructions
- 3
Encourage questions to ensure understanding
- 4
Use teach-back methods to confirm comprehension
- 5
Break down information into manageable parts
Example Answers
I would start by using simple terms to explain each medication and its purpose. I would also provide a written summary for the patient to take home, so they can review it later. After explaining, I would ask if they have any questions or if anything is unclear.
If you need assistance from a physician who is busy, how would you ensure your patient gets timely care?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the urgency of the patient's needs first
- 2
Use effective communication to convey the situation to the physician
- 3
Be prepared with specific details about the patient's condition
- 4
Consider alternative resources like other team members or protocols
- 5
Follow up with the physician or team to ensure the issue is resolved
Example Answers
I would assess how urgent my patient's condition is and if necessary, communicate clearly with the physician about the critical aspects. If they are still unavailable, I would reach out to another colleague or follow established protocols.
Don't Just Read Acute Care Nurse Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Acute Care Nurse interview answers in real-time.
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What steps would you take if a patient reports a side effect from their medication?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen carefully to the patient's concerns and symptoms.
- 2
Document the reported side effect in the patient's medical record.
- 3
Assess the severity of the side effect and the patient's overall condition.
- 4
Notify the attending physician or medical team about the report.
- 5
Provide reassurance to the patient and inform them of next steps.
Example Answers
I would first listen to the patient and understand exactly what side effects they are experiencing. Then, I would document this information clearly in their medical record for future reference. If the side effect seems severe, I would assess the patient's condition and notify the physician immediately while reassuring the patient that they are in good hands.
What would you do if you find yourself short-staffed during a busy shift?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the immediate priorities of patient care and critical tasks
- 2
Communicate openly with your team and leadership about the situation
- 3
Delegate tasks according to staff strengths and capabilities
- 4
Stay calm and focused to maintain team morale and effectiveness
- 5
Utilize support staff and available resources to manage workload
Example Answers
If I find myself short-staffed, I would first assess which patients need immediate attention and prioritize care accordingly. Then, I would communicate with my team to see if anyone can adjust their duties. I'll delegate tasks based on who can handle them effectively, and I'll remain calm to keep the team motivated.
How would you ensure a safe environment for a confused elderly patient?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the patient's level of confusion and specific needs
- 2
Remove any potential hazards from the patient's area
- 3
Use clear communication and simple language when interacting
- 4
Ensure proper lighting and visibility in the patient's surroundings
- 5
Implement a consistent routine to help the patient feel secure
Example Answers
I would first assess the patient to understand their confusion and needs. Then, I'd remove all hazards like sharp objects or clutter. I would communicate simply, explaining procedures clearly to them. I'd also ensure the room is well-lit and assist with establishing a daily routine.
Technical Interview Questions
Can you outline the steps you would take during a code blue situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the situation quickly for safety and patient's condition
- 2
Call for help and activate the emergency response team
- 3
Start CPR immediately if the patient is unresponsive and not breathing
- 4
Use an AED as soon as possible if available
- 5
Follow the team's directions and provide clear communication
Example Answers
First, I would assess the scene to ensure it's safe and then evaluate the patient's condition. I'd immediately call for help and activate the code blue response. If the patient is unresponsive and not breathing, I would start CPR until the emergency team arrives.
What are the normal ranges for vital signs in adults, and how would you respond to abnormal values?
How to Answer
- 1
List the normal ranges for temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure.
- 2
Explain the significance of each vital sign in assessing patient health.
- 3
Mention the importance of context when evaluating abnormal values.
- 4
Describe specific actions you would take for common abnormal values.
- 5
Show understanding of protocols or guidelines related to vital sign management.
Example Answers
The normal vital sign ranges for adults are: temperature 97.8-99.1°F, pulse 60-100 bpm, respiration 12-20 breaths per minute, and blood pressure around 120/80 mmHg. If I see a pulse above 100 bpm, I would assess for underlying causes such as pain or anxiety, then notify the physician and follow hospital protocol for close monitoring.
Don't Just Read Acute Care Nurse Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Acute Care Nurse interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Can you explain the steps you take to ensure safe medication administration?
How to Answer
- 1
Always verify the patient's identity using at least two identifiers.
- 2
Check the medication against the MAR (Medication Administration Record) for accuracy.
- 3
Be aware of the 'Five Rights' of medication administration: Right patient, Right drug, Right dose, Right route, Right time.
- 4
Educate the patient about the medication, including potential side effects.
- 5
Document the administration details accurately and promptly in the patient's record.
Example Answers
To ensure safe medication administration, I always start by confirming the patient's identity with two identifiers. I then cross-check the medication against the MAR for any discrepancies. I adhere to the 'Five Rights' to avoid errors and make sure to explain the medication to the patient, including any side effects.
What key assessments do you perform when admitting an acute care patient?
How to Answer
- 1
Start with a brief overview of the patient's medical history.
- 2
Emphasize vital signs as the first critical assessment.
- 3
Include a focused physical examination relevant to their condition.
- 4
Assess mental status and responsiveness.
- 5
Discuss any immediate lab tests or imaging that may be necessary.
Example Answers
When admitting an acute care patient, I first review their medical history to understand prior conditions. Then I check vital signs like heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation. A focused physical exam follows, especially targeting the presenting symptoms. I also evaluate their mental status to ensure they are alert and oriented. Finally, I order any urgent labs or imaging based on the initial findings.
What are the signs of infiltration in IV therapy, and how would you address it?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify common signs of infiltration such as swelling, pain, and coolness at the site.
- 2
Explain that you would stop the infusion immediately.
- 3
Notify the healthcare provider about the infiltration.
- 4
Assess the site for further complications.
- 5
Document the incident and your actions taken.
Example Answers
Infiltration signs include swelling, discomfort, and a cooler temperature around the IV site. If I notice these, I would stop the infusion right away and inform the provider.
How do you monitor a patient’s cardiac rhythm and what would you do if you detected an arrhythmia?
How to Answer
- 1
Explain the methods used to monitor cardiac rhythm, like ECG or telemetry.
- 2
Describe how to assess the arrhythmia, including checking vital signs.
- 3
Discuss immediate actions to take if an arrhythmia is detected, such as notifying the physician.
- 4
Mention any interventions you might perform, like administering medication or preparing for defibrillation.
- 5
Emphasize the importance of continuous observation and reassessment of the patient.
Example Answers
I monitor a patient’s cardiac rhythm using telemetry or a 12-lead ECG. If I detect an arrhythmia, I first check the patient's vital signs and assess their symptoms. I would then notify the physician immediately and prepare to intervene if necessary, like administering antiarrhythmic medications.
What techniques do you use for managing and assessing wounds in acute care?
How to Answer
- 1
Begin with a thorough assessment of the wound including size, depth, and any signs of infection.
- 2
Use evidence-based practices for wound cleaning and dressing selection.
- 3
Incorporate pain management strategies when assessing and treating wounds.
- 4
Document your findings meticulously for continuity of care.
- 5
Educate patients on wound care and what symptoms to report.
Example Answers
I start by carefully assessing the wound, noting its size and any infection signs. I clean the wound using sterile techniques and choose a dressing based on the wound type. I also ensure the patient is comfortable and provide pain relief if necessary.
How do you interpret lab values for sodium and potassium in acute patients?
How to Answer
- 1
Understand the normal ranges for sodium (135-145 mEq/L) and potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L)
- 2
Identify symptoms associated with abnormal levels like confusion or arrhythmias
- 3
Consider the patient's clinical context and history when interpreting values
- 4
Use a systematic approach to assess the significance of the lab values
- 5
Stay aware of the potential treatment implications of abnormal levels
Example Answers
I interpret sodium levels by checking if they fall between 135-145 mEq/L. If a patient's sodium is low, I look for signs like confusion or seizures and consider the history of fluid intake. For potassium, I monitor heart rhythms closely, especially if levels are outside the normal range, due to the risk of arrhythmias.
What types of emergency equipment are you familiar with, and how do you use them?
How to Answer
- 1
List specific emergency equipment relevant to acute care environments.
- 2
Explain your experience using each type of equipment.
- 3
Include any certifications or training related to the equipment.
- 4
Mention situations where you successfully used the equipment.
- 5
Demonstrate understanding of protocols and procedures associated with the equipment.
Example Answers
I am familiar with defibrillators, oxygen delivery systems, and IV pumps. I regularly use defibrillators for cardiac arrests, ensuring to follow ACLS protocols.
What is your approach to ensuring accurate and timely documentation of patient care?
How to Answer
- 1
Prioritize documentation during patient assessments to capture details immediately.
- 2
Use standardized templates to maintain consistency and completeness.
- 3
Review documentation regularly to ensure accuracy and add any missing information.
- 4
Collaborate with team members for shared notes to enhance accuracy.
- 5
Leverage technology, such as electronic health records, for quick updates.
Example Answers
I ensure accurate and timely documentation by prioritizing it during patient assessments, using standardized templates for consistency, and reviewing my notes regularly to catch any errors.
Don't Just Read Acute Care Nurse Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Acute Care Nurse interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you worked as part of a healthcare team to improve patient outcomes?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific example involving teamwork.
- 2
Outline the problem you faced and the goals of the team.
- 3
Detail your role and contributions clearly.
- 4
Highlight the positive outcome and what was learned.
- 5
Use measurable improvements to demonstrate success.
Example Answers
In my last position, our team faced a high rate of hospital readmissions for heart failure patients. We set a goal to reduce readmissions by improving patient education. I collaborated with the dietitian and social worker to create a comprehensive discharge plan, which included dietary guidelines and follow-up care. As a result, our readmission rate decreased by 30% over three months, and we learned the importance of interdisciplinary communication.
Tell me about a situation where you had a conflict with a colleague. How did you handle it?
How to Answer
- 1
Focus on a specific conflict scenario without blaming others.
- 2
Describe your feelings and thoughts during the conflict.
- 3
Explain the steps you took to resolve the issue amicably.
- 4
Highlight the importance of communication in your resolution process.
- 5
Conclude with what you learned from this conflict and how it improved your teamwork.
Example Answers
In a team meeting, I disagreed with a colleague about patient care approaches. I felt frustrated but took a step back to listen to their point of view. I suggested a discussion where we could outline our thoughts in a respectful manner. We eventually agreed on a combined approach that benefited our patients. This taught me the value of open communication and collaboration.
Don't Just Read Acute Care Nurse Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Acute Care Nurse interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Describe a particularly stressful shift you experienced. How did you cope with it?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific shift with clear stress factors.
- 2
Explain your role in the situation clearly.
- 3
Discuss coping strategies you used, like teamwork or time management.
- 4
Mention any outcomes or lessons learned.
- 5
Keep the tone positive, focusing on growth.
Example Answers
During a night shift, we were understaffed and had a high influx of patients. I focused on prioritizing tasks and communicated with my team effectively. We divided duties and supported each other, which helped us manage the situation and reduce stress. I learned the importance of teamwork in high-pressure environments.
Give an example of how you managed a patient with complex needs and what the outcome was.
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific patient case with multiple health issues.
- 2
Describe your assessment and planning process.
- 3
Explain the interventions you implemented.
- 4
Share the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Keep your answer focused and structured.
Example Answers
I cared for a patient with diabetes and congestive heart failure. I assessed their medication adherence and managed fluid intake. I coordinated with a dietitian to create a suitable meal plan. The patient stabilized, and their hospital stay was shortened by two days due to improved health.
Have you ever taken the lead in an emergency situation? What did you do?
How to Answer
- 1
Briefly describe the emergency situation you faced.
- 2
Clearly state the actions you took as the leader.
- 3
Highlight any team coordination or communication efforts.
- 4
Mention outcomes or what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Keep it concise and focused on your leadership role.
Example Answers
During a code blue emergency, I quickly assessed the situation, called for help, and directed team members to start CPR while I prepared the defibrillator. Our swift teamwork led to the patient's stabilization by the time the doctor arrived.
What is an example of a time when you effectively communicated information to a patient's family?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific instance that highlights your communication skills
- 2
Highlight the context of the situation and the needs of the family
- 3
Emphasize the methods you used, such as clear language or visuals
- 4
Describe the outcome and how it impacted the family positively
- 5
Reflect on any feedback you received from the family
Example Answers
During a shift, I needed to explain the treatment plan for an elderly patient to their family. I used simple language and visual aids to ensure they understood the steps involved. The family appreciated the clarity, reducing their anxiety about the care process.
Tell me about a time when you had to adapt quickly to a change in patient condition. What actions did you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific situation with a clear patient outcome.
- 2
Highlight your assessment skills in observing the change.
- 3
Describe the immediate actions you took to address the change.
- 4
Mention any teamwork or communication needed with other staff.
- 5
Conclude with the results and what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
During my shift, a patient showed signs of rapid deterioration. Upon checking their vitals, I noticed a drop in blood pressure and an increase in heart rate. I immediately called the doctor, administered oxygen, and prepared the emergency response team. My quick assessment and teamwork helped stabilize the patient.
Can you describe a time when you mentored or trained a new nurse?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific example that highlights your mentoring skills
- 2
Detail the steps you took to support the new nurse
- 3
Mention any challenges faced and how you overcame them
- 4
Highlight the outcomes and what the new nurse learned
- 5
Reflect on how this experience impacted you personally as a mentor
Example Answers
During my last position, I mentored a new nurse who was struggling with patient assessments. I created a step-by-step guide for her and spent extra time going through the vital signs and documentation processes. She improved her skills significantly, and by the end of her first month, she was independently managing her assessment duties.
Reflecting on your experience, what is one lesson you learned that changed your approach to nursing?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific experience that was impactful.
- 2
Explain the lesson learned clearly and concisely.
- 3
Detail how this lesson changed your nursing practice.
- 4
Use a positive tone to reflect growth and improvement.
- 5
Connect the lesson to patient care or teamwork.
Example Answers
During a critical incident with a patient, I learned the importance of effective communication. After that experience, I made it a priority to ensure that I actively listened to my patients and collaborated more with my team.
Acute Care Nurse Position Details
Recommended Job Boards
Nurse.com
www.nurse.com/jobs/acute-care-nurseCareerBuilder
www.careerbuilder.com/jobs/acute-care-nurseZipRecruiter
www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Acute-Care-NurseThese job boards are ranked by relevance for this position.
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Ace Your Next Interview!
Practice with AI feedback & get hired faster
Personalized feedback
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Ace Your Next Interview!
Practice with AI feedback & get hired faster
Personalized feedback
Used by hundreds of successful candidates