Nursing Interview Red Flags & Questions to Ask

Tick red flags you spotted. Then use the question list at the end of your interview.

Red flags (0/8)

Vague or dodged answers about nurse-to-patient ratiosNo clear orientation length or 'we're flexible depending on staffing'High traveler count with no plan to hire permanent staffPreceptors who seem resentful when asked about themNobody smiles at you on the walkthroughHigh turnover mentioned casuallyCan't name a real orientation planManager not introduced / you don't meet them

Questions to ask at the end

• What's the typical nurse-to-patient ratio on nights?

• How long was orientation for the last new grad, and did anyone's get cut short?

• Why is this position open?

• What does preceptorship look like (dedicated vs. rotated)?

• What happens if I'm struggling three months in?

• How are new grads supported when off orientation?

• What's the turnover on this unit in the last year?