Easy Interviewing Tips for a School Nurse

January 19th, 2011

The extensive coursework you endure in order to graduate from a nursing program is only have the battle—you need to ace your interview in order to fulfill your dream of becoming a school nurse. Continue reading below to learn some simple tips to ensure your interview goes smoothly.

Aside from the obvious interviewing tips such as arriving to your appointment on time and dressing appropriately and professionally, it's important that you are well-prepared in all other aspects as well. One of the easiest ways to do this is to do some preliminary research of the school and district before your interview. This way, if the opportunity arises you can prove to your potential future employer that you are well-informed about the dynamics of the kids, including the economic, social and racial background, and you are the perfect person to fulfill the job. Researching the district's history and policies may also be highly beneficial.

While you may be highly qualified to fulfill the position, sometimes first-time interview jitters can get the best of you. A good way to prevent this from happening is to simply formulate a couple of answers to critical questions before the interview takes place. While it's uncertain what exact questions will be asked, you can be assured that the interviewer is going to ask questions regarding your background such as "what made you originally pursue nursing?" "Why did you decide on school nursing" and "tell us about a conflict in your past and describe how you resolved it." Be honest with your answers, but do your best to answer them is a positive fashion.

On a similar note, your interviewer will ask you a series of "what if" scenario questions where you will be required to describe how you would respond to hypothetical emergency and common situations. For example, you may be asked how you would respond if a parent strongly disagreed/disapproved with the treatment of their child or you may be asked how you would handle treating two children who were suffering from severe healthcare problems simultaneously. These questions are highly imperative so it's important that you assess the hypothetical scenario carefully and put a lot of thought into your answers.

It may also be beneficial to prepare some questions of your own. Asking about the job during your interview will show that you are serious and have a strong interest in the position. But try to avoid questions about salary.