Top 30 Emergency Room Nurse Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Preparing for an emergency room nurse interview can be daunting, but having the right resources can boost your confidence. In this post, we’ve gathered the most common interview questions for the role, complete with example answers and tips to help you respond effectively. Whether you're a seasoned nurse or just starting out, these insights will help you make a lasting impression and secure your desired position.
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List of Emergency Room Nurse Interview Questions
Behavioral Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you had to work closely with other healthcare professionals to handle a difficult case? What was the outcome?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific case with clear roles of team members
- 2
Describe your role and contributions in detail
- 3
Highlight communication and collaboration strategies used
- 4
Emphasize the outcome and any lessons learned
- 5
Keep it concise and focused on teamwork dynamics
Example Answers
In the ER, we received a multi-trauma patient after a car accident. I coordinated with the trauma surgeon and the anesthesiologist. We maintained clear communication throughout the resuscitation, assigning tasks effectively. The patient stabilized and was transferred to the ICU. This experience emphasized the importance of teamwork in critical situations.
How do you manage stress, especially during a particularly hectic shift in the emergency room?
How to Answer
- 1
Prioritize tasks and focus on one patient at a time
- 2
Practice deep breathing techniques during short breaks
- 3
Stay organized with a clear plan for the shift
- 4
Communicate effectively with your team to share the load
- 5
Maintain a positive attitude and support your colleagues
Example Answers
During hectic shifts, I prioritize tasks by assessing the most critical patients first and focusing on them one at a time. This keeps me organized and reduces overwhelm.
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Tell me about a time you had to explain a complex medical procedure to a patient or their family. How did you ensure they understood?
How to Answer
- 1
Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
- 2
Start with a brief context of the medical procedure involved.
- 3
Describe how you tailored your explanation to the patient's level of understanding.
- 4
Mention the tools or methods you used to enhance understanding, like diagrams or analogies.
- 5
Conclude with the patient's or family's feedback to show the effectiveness of your communication.
Example Answers
In my previous job, I had to explain a cardiac catheterization to a patient's family. I started by outlining what the procedure was and why it was necessary. To ensure they understood, I used a diagram to show how the catheter would be inserted. I encouraged questions and provided simple analogies to relate to their everyday experiences. After the explanation, the family expressed gratitude and felt reassured about the procedure.
Give me an example of a conflict you encountered with a colleague in the ER. How did you handle it?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific conflict, such as disagreement on patient care or communication breakdown.
- 2
Explain your role in the situation and what led to the conflict.
- 3
Describe the steps you took to address the issue, focusing on communication and teamwork.
- 4
Highlight the resolution and what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Emphasize the importance of collaboration in a high-pressure environment like the ER.
Example Answers
During a shift, a colleague and I disagreed on the approach to a critical patient's treatment. I calmly suggested we discuss our viewpoints and review the patient's history together. After our conversation, we reached a consensus on the best course of action, which improved our teamwork and patient care.
Describe a situation where you had to adapt quickly to a significant change in procedure or policy while on duty.
How to Answer
- 1
Reflect on a specific incident where a policy changed unexpectedly.
- 2
Describe your immediate reaction and how you assessed the situation.
- 3
Explain the steps you took to implement the new procedure.
- 4
Highlight the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
- 5
Emphasize your ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.
Example Answers
Once during a shift, we had a sudden change in the protocol for triaging patients. I quickly gathered my team, briefed them on the new procedure, and we adjusted our workflow. This led us to efficiently manage patient flow, and we received positive feedback from our supervisor.
Can you provide an example of when you took the lead in an emergency situation in the ER?
How to Answer
- 1
Start with a clear situation where you needed to lead.
- 2
Describe the urgency and what made it an emergency.
- 3
Explain your specific actions and decisions.
- 4
Mention the outcome and any team collaboration.
- 5
Highlight any skills or knowledge you applied effectively.
Example Answers
During a busy night shift, we had a trauma patient arrive after a car accident. I quickly assessed their vitals and noted severe bleeding, so I took charge of the situation. I instructed team members to prepare for intubation and IV access while I managed compressions. Our quick actions stabilized the patient, and they were successfully transferred for surgery.
Tell me about a time when you had to make a difficult decision in the ER without complete information. What did you decide, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific incident where you had to act quickly.
- 2
Explain the context of the situation and why information was lacking.
- 3
Describe the decision-making process you used.
- 4
Share the decision you made and the immediate impact it had.
- 5
Reflect on what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In one case, a patient arrived with severe chest pain but no medical history was available. I used my assessment skills to quickly perform an EKG and called for a chest X-ray. Based on the EKG results, I treated it as a potential heart attack and initiated protocols. Thankfully, it was indeed a blockage, and we were able to stabilize the patient, leading to a successful intervention. I learned the importance of swift assessment even with limited information.
Describe an instance where you had to advocate for a patient in the emergency room.
How to Answer
- 1
Reflect on a specific example from your experience.
- 2
Start with the situation that required advocacy.
- 3
Explain your specific actions taken to support the patient.
- 4
Highlight the outcome and how it benefited the patient.
- 5
Emphasize your motivation for advocating, such as empathy or professional responsibility.
Example Answers
Once, I had a patient in severe pain who was waiting for a long time due to a busy ER. I approached the charge nurse to advocate for her immediate assessment, citing her condition and the urgency. As a result, the doctor was alerted and the patient received pain management quickly, which greatly improved her experience.
Situational Interview Questions
You have multiple patients to attend to, all requiring immediate attention. How do you prioritize your tasks?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the severity of each patient's condition quickly
- 2
Use a triage approach to identify life-threatening issues first
- 3
Communicate with the team about your prioritization
- 4
Delegate tasks when necessary to ensure all patients are attended to
- 5
Stay organized and focused to prevent oversight
Example Answers
In a hectic environment, I quickly assess each patient using a triage method. I prioritize life-threatening conditions first, ensuring those who need immediate care are attended to without delay. I also communicate with my team to delegate tasks, ensuring that we manage our time effectively.
A new intern is starting their first shift in the ER, and they appear overwhelmed. How would you assist them?
How to Answer
- 1
Introduce yourself and offer encouragement to the intern.
- 2
Assess their immediate needs and identify specific tasks they are struggling with.
- 3
Demonstrate key procedures or protocols that might help them feel more confident.
- 4
Pair them with a more experienced staff member for hands-on support.
- 5
Check in with them periodically throughout their shift to provide guidance and reassurance.
Example Answers
I would start by introducing myself and encouraging the intern to take a deep breath. Then, I would ask what specific tasks are overwhelming them and provide a quick demonstration of those procedures.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Given the high-stress nature of working in an ER, how do you take care of yourself to prevent burnout?
How to Answer
- 1
Practice mindfulness techniques during breaks to clear your mind
- 2
Set boundaries to maintain work-life balance after shifts
- 3
Engage in regular physical activity to reduce stress
- 4
Attend regular debriefings with colleagues to share experiences
- 5
Pursue hobbies and interests outside of work for relaxation
Example Answers
I practice mindfulness techniques during my breaks, which helps me recharge. I also set clear boundaries after my shifts to ensure I have personal time.
Imagine you overhear a colleague discussing a patient's private information inappropriately. How would you handle this situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Address the issue promptly and discreetly
- 2
Consider speaking to the colleague directly and privately
- 3
If necessary, report the incident to a supervisor or use proper channels
- 4
Emphasize the importance of patient confidentiality
- 5
Prepare to discuss how you would protect patient trust in a team environment
Example Answers
I would approach the colleague privately and express my concern about discussing sensitive patient information. I would remind them of our confidentiality policies and encourage them to refrain from such conversations in the future.
The ER is overcrowded, and there are not enough beds for incoming patients. How would you manage this situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Prioritize patient assessment to identify critical cases
- 2
Communicate clearly with the team and leadership about the situation
- 3
Implement a triage system to manage patient flow effectively
- 4
Consider alternative solutions like observation units or temporary holding areas
- 5
Stay calm and focused to lead your team in a high-pressure environment
Example Answers
I would first assess all patients quickly, prioritizing those with life-threatening conditions. Then, I would communicate with my team and supervisors to inform them of our capacity issues and collaborate on a triage approach to streamline patient flow.
A patient is becoming increasingly upset and confrontational. How would you de-escalate the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and maintain a composed demeanor
- 2
Use active listening to validate the patient's feelings
- 3
Speak in a low, soothing voice and keep your body language open
- 4
Address the patient's concerns with empathy and without judgment
- 5
Involve other team members if the situation escalates further
Example Answers
I would first remain calm and approach the patient with an open posture. I would listen to their concerns actively, validating their feelings, and speak to them in a low, soothing tone to help reduce tension.
A patient comes in with chest pain, but their symptoms are atypical. What would be your approach to assess and manage their care?
How to Answer
- 1
Start by performing a rapid but thorough assessment of vital signs.
- 2
Ask about the patient's medical history and any risk factors for heart disease.
- 3
Conduct an ECG to identify any potential cardiac issues.
- 4
Consider alternative diagnoses such as anxiety or gastrointestinal issues.
- 5
Provide supportive care while further diagnostic tests are being performed.
Example Answers
I would begin by checking the patient's vital signs and assessing their level of distress. Then, I would gather a detailed medical history and identify any risk factors. An ECG would be crucial to rule out any serious cardiac problems while being open to alternative diagnoses.
During your shift, a natural disaster occurs, and the ER is flooded with patients. How would you prioritize their care?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the situation quickly and determine the number of patients and their conditions.
- 2
Triage patients based on severity and urgency of their needs using established protocols.
- 3
Communicate with your team to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities.
- 4
Prioritize life-threatening conditions while also considering patients needing immediate interventions.
- 5
Continuously reassess and adapt your priorities as conditions change.
Example Answers
I would immediately assess the number of incoming patients and categorize them based on the severity of their conditions. Using a triage system, I would prioritize life-threatening injuries and critical conditions first, while ensuring that other team members understand their roles to manage the volume efficiently.
You notice a potential hazard in the ER that hasn't been addressed. What steps would you take to ensure patient safety?
How to Answer
- 1
Quickly assess the hazard and its potential risk to patients and staff
- 2
Notify your immediate supervisor or the charge nurse about the hazard
- 3
Take immediate action to mitigate the hazard if safe to do so
- 4
Document the hazard and any actions taken in the patient's file or incident report
- 5
Follow up to ensure that the hazard has been properly addressed or resolved
Example Answers
I would first assess the hazard to understand the risk level. Then, I would inform the charge nurse immediately so they can take the necessary steps and I’ll document everything for future reference.
A patient in severe pain is not responding well to standard pain management techniques. How would you handle their care?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the patient to understand the source and nature of their pain.
- 2
Review their current pain management plan and medication history.
- 3
Communicate with the patient to gauge their pain level and concerns.
- 4
Consider alternative pain management options, such as adjuvant medications.
- 5
Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop a revised pain management strategy.
Example Answers
I would first assess the patient's vital signs and gather information on their pain history. After ensuring their pain is accurately understood, I would review their medication and talk to them about their current pain levels. Then, I would explore alternative options like nerve blocks or adjunct therapies and involve the healthcare team for a comprehensive approach.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
How would you approach treating a non-English speaking patient to ensure they receive the necessary care?
How to Answer
- 1
Use professional translation services if available.
- 2
Utilize visual aids and gestures to communicate effectively.
- 3
Engage with family members who may translate.
- 4
Gather information about the patient's primary language beforehand.
- 5
Document any language barriers and steps taken to resolve them.
Example Answers
I would use a translation service to ensure clear communication, and if that is not available, I would use gestures and visual aids to help convey important information about their care.
Technical Interview Questions
What are the key considerations when providing respiratory care to patients in the ER?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation immediately
- 2
Use pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen saturation levels routinely
- 3
Administer oxygen therapy as needed based on patient condition
- 4
Be prepared to intubate if the patient's airway is compromised
- 5
Collaborate with the respiratory therapy team for advanced interventions
Example Answers
In the ER, it's crucial to assess the patient's airway and breathing first. I monitor oxygen levels using pulse oximetry and provide supplemental oxygen if their saturation is low. If there's a risk of airway compromise, I am ready to intubate and work closely with the respiratory therapy team.
Describe the process you follow to ensure accurate medication administration in a fast-paced environment.
How to Answer
- 1
Use the five rights of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time.
- 2
Employ a double-check system with colleagues for high-risk medications.
- 3
Stay organized by using a medication administration record (MAR) and following a routine.
- 4
Communicate clearly with the healthcare team and patients about medications.
- 5
Utilize technology such as barcode scanning for medications when available.
Example Answers
I always follow the five rights of medication administration to ensure accuracy. This includes verifying the right patient, drug, dose, route, and time. I also believe in the importance of communicating with my team and utilizing tools like barcode scanning when available.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
What electronic medical record systems have you worked with, and how do you ensure accuracy in your documentation?
How to Answer
- 1
List specific EMR systems you have used in your experience
- 2
Highlight your familiarity with documentation protocols unique to emergency care
- 3
Explain methods you use to double-check your entries for accuracy
- 4
Mention any training you’ve received on EMR systems or documentation best practices
- 5
Discuss how you handle updates or corrections in a timely manner
Example Answers
I have worked with Epic and Cerner systems. In the ER, I make sure to review patient information before finalizing any documentation, and I cross-check vital signs and medications for accuracy.
What are the critical vital signs you monitor in an ER, and what values indicate an immediate need for intervention?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the key vital signs: heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature.
- 2
Explain normal ranges for each vital sign to provide context.
- 3
Specify values that suggest serious conditions, such as tachycardia over 120 bpm or hypotension under 90/60 mmHg.
- 4
Mention any specific situations where monitoring these signs is crucial, like trauma or cardiac emergencies.
- 5
Emphasize the urgency of response for abnormal values to highlight the critical nature of ER work.
Example Answers
In the ER, I monitor heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature. A heart rate over 120 bpm indicates potential shock, while a blood pressure below 90/60 mmHg is critical and requires immediate intervention. I also closely watch for respiratory rates over 30 bpm and oxygen saturation below 90%, as both can signify respiratory distress.
Explain the infection control protocols you follow in the emergency room to ensure patient and staff safety.
How to Answer
- 1
Identify key infection control measures used in the ER
- 2
Mention hand hygiene practices and PPE protocols
- 3
Discuss the importance of sterilization procedures
- 4
Highlight the role of isolation for infectious patients
- 5
Explain reporting and documenting infection incidents
Example Answers
In the emergency room, I adhere to strict infection control protocols. This includes regular hand washing before and after patient contact, using personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks during procedures, and ensuring that all surfaces and equipment are properly disinfected. Additionally, we prioritize isolating any patients with suspected infectious diseases to prevent cross-contamination.
What steps do you take during a cardiac arrest situation in the ER?
How to Answer
- 1
Immediately call for a code blue to alert the team.
- 2
Start high-quality CPR, ensuring good chest compressions at the correct depth and rate.
- 3
Use an AED to deliver defibrillation if indicated and trained to do so.
- 4
Administer emergency medications as per protocols.
- 5
Continuously monitor the patient’s vital signs and adjust interventions accordingly.
Example Answers
I start by calling a code blue to get the team involved immediately. Then, I begin CPR, focusing on deep and fast compressions. If available, I use the AED as quickly as possible. I also provide necessary medications based on the protocols. I make sure to keep monitoring the patient's vitals throughout the process.
What criteria do you use to prioritize patients in a busy ER?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the severity of each patient's condition first
- 2
Utilize the triage system effectively to categorize cases
- 3
Consider any life-threatening situations as top priority
- 4
Evaluate the stability of patients and their needs for immediate care
- 5
Communicate with the team to ensure everyone is aware of priorities
Example Answers
In a busy ER, I first assess the severity of each patient’s condition using the triage system. Life-threatening situations, like respiratory distress, are given top priority. I also check on the stability of patients to ensure timely care.
What life-saving equipment are you most familiar with using in the ER, and how would you operate it during an emergency?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific life-saving equipment you have experience with.
- 2
Explain the key features and functions of the equipment.
- 3
Describe a scenario where you successfully used the equipment.
- 4
Highlight your ability to work under pressure while using the equipment.
- 5
Emphasize team communication while operating the equipment.
Example Answers
I am most familiar with using a defibrillator. In an emergency, I quickly assess the patient's condition and apply the pads to ensure proper contact. I follow the prompts, ensuring everyone is clear of the area before administering a shock. In a recent case, I assisted a patient in cardiac arrest and successfully restored their rhythm.
What is your approach to treating a patient with a complex laceration in the ER?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the severity of the laceration and the patient's overall condition
- 2
Control bleeding immediately and stabilize vitals
- 3
Ensure clean and sterile field during examination
- 4
Provide appropriate pain management and sedation if necessary
- 5
Plan for suturing or further intervention based on the assessment
Example Answers
First, I ensure the patient is stabilized by checking vital signs and controlling any bleeding. Then I irrigate the laceration to prevent infection and assess for any deeper structures that may be involved. After that, I provide pain management before deciding whether to suture or refer for surgical intervention.
How do you interpret ECG readings in an emergency setting?
How to Answer
- 1
Focus on identifying critical rhythms immediately such as ventricular fibrillation and asystole.
- 2
Discuss the importance of quickly assessing heart rate and rhythm for signs of instability.
- 3
Mention using mnemonic devices like 'P-QRS-T' to remember wave components.
- 4
Explain how you correlate ECG findings with the patient's clinical presentation.
- 5
Emphasize the need for team communication and readiness to act based on findings.
Example Answers
In an emergency setting, I quickly assess the ECG for life-threatening arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. I use the P-QRS-T mnemonic to check the heart's rhythm and rate, and I always correlate the findings with the patient's symptoms to make timely decisions.
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Reading sample answers isn't enough. Top candidates practice speaking with confidence and clarity. Get real feedback, improve faster, and walk into your next interview ready to stand out.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Emergency Room Nurse Position Details
Salary Information
Recommended Job Boards
Vivian Health
www.vivian.com/nursing/er-emergency-room-nurse/These job boards are ranked by relevance for this position.
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Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Good Candidates Answer Questions. Great Ones Win Offers.
Master your interview answers under pressure
Boost your confidence with real-time practice
Speak clearly and impress hiring managers
Get hired faster with focused preparation
Used by hundreds of successful candidates