Use these questions to identify a candidate’s technical knowledge and abilities
Use these questions to determine how a candidate handled situations in the past
Use these questions to assess a candidate’s personal traits and cognitive skills
Why this matters:
The majority of patients that a nurse practitioner encounters on a daily basis will have visited the facility because they’re feeling unwell, so there’s a high chance that your new hire will work with people who suddenly become dizzy. It’s essential that they make sure the patient is okay and that they’re comfortable while the dizzy spell passes.
What to listen for:
- Answers should include sample questions they’d ask the patient to provide a proper diagnosis, like whether they are taking any medication.
- Listen for evidence that the candidate has a good bedside manner, such as offering patients some water.
Why this matters:
Use this sample situation as inspiration, but feel free to adjust it based on the scenarios that are most common at your particular practice. Nurses will likely encounter patients from all walks of life, but they should show the same level of respect and concern toward everyone, regardless of their circumstances.
What to listen for:
- Answers should demonstrate that the candidate takes a kind and empathetic approach, no matter who the patient is.
- Look for signs that the candidate possesses a strong ability to communicate to help the patient get the care they need.
Why this matters:
EHRs are essential to keeping a hospital, clinic, or medical practice efficient, productive, and care-focused, so it’s important that your candidate has a healthy working relationship with EHRs. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions to get examples of the types of tasks they’ve performed in the past.
What to listen for:
- Candidates should be able to demonstrate knowledge of how to document an evaluation, write prescriptions, complete a prior authorization, and order labs in an EHR.
- A good answer will show a healthy respect for this technlogy, rather than being dismissive of it.
Why this matters:
Every patient is different. A large and very important part of a nurse practitioner’s job is to be able to ask the questions necessary to get a good understanding of their patient’s symptoms and medical history. They should also feel comfortable explaining different treatment options to patients to boost understanding and provide assurance.
What to listen for:
- Candidates should be able to list key considerations around risk and have several standard questions to ensure a proper diagnosis.
- A strong answer will demonstrate a keen ability to explain the rationale behind each potential treatment option.
Why this matters:
This question will show you how your candidate evaluates the patient’s perceived need and responds to their request for a nonessential antibiotic prescription. Many patients see antibiotics as the only solution to what ails them. But not every patient needs antibiotics, and prescribing them too often can have negative consequences.
What to listen for:
- Look for candidates who show appropriate restraint when prescribing antibiotics.
- Top answers will focus on their methods for educating patients, like explaining the potentially harmful effects of antibiotic resistance and recommend over-the-counter alternatives instead.
Why this matters:
The candidate’s answer to this question will demonstrate their definition of exceptional patient care and their dedication to their patients. Knowing how they define high-quality care will give you the best sense of what kind of care you can expect from them and whether their values are aligned with your organization.
What to listen for:
- Look for signs that the candidate is deeply passionate about providing great care.
- Listen for an answer that shows they take the initiative to go above and beyond, like making the effort to check in on patients even after they’re no longer the candidate’s responsibility.
Why this matters:
The answer to this question will give you a sense of culture fit—and help you evaluate whether the candidate will enjoy the work environment at your practice. It can also give you a sense of their typical comfort levels and preferences in terms of the nurse-to-patient ratio, length of shift, schedule, and so on.
What to listen for:
- Look for signs that the candidate’s preferences are not at odds with the environment they would be working in.
- Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions to determine if they will be comfortable with aspects of your specific work environment.
Why this matters:
This question screens for leadership and teamwork. Many nurse practitioners begin their career as nurses—but as a nurse practitioner, they become the people giving directions and must be comfortable leading a team. It’s a big leap and it’s important to be sure your new hire can make it gracefully.
What to listen for:
- Look for answers that show the candidate understands and is comfortable with this added level of responsibility.
- Listen for evidence of strong leadership skills and an ability to direct and motivate others.
Why this matters:
Nurse practitioners must maintain strong working relationships with all colleagues. Medical settings can be fast-paced, high-stress environments where emotions can run high, but it’s important for employees to keep a level head and focus on what’s best for the patient—even if that means working with people they don’t always like.
What to listen for:
- Look for evidence of patience, active listening, and strong conflict resolution skills.
- A strong answer will cover what steps the candidate took to strengthen their working relationship with this person.
Read our additional hiring guides.
