25 Interview Questions and Answers for a Care Home Nurse Role – Expert Guidance from Jerry Frempong
Working as a care home nurse is a rewarding and highly respected role within the UK healthcare sector. Care home nurses are responsible for delivering excellent care to elderly residents, managing medications, monitoring health conditions, and leading teams of carers to ensure residents’ well-being. The position combines clinical expertise with compassion, patience, and leadership. Salaries typically range from £28,000 to £35,000 per year depending on experience, location, and the care home’s size. If you’re preparing for a nurse interview at a care home, understanding potential questions and formulating thoughtful, structured answers can make all the difference. Here, we provide 25 common interview questions and detailed answers, practical tips using the STAR method, and encouragement to help you excel.
Sample Opening Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself.
This question sets the tone for the interview. Keep your answer concise, relevant, and positive.
Answer:
“I am a registered nurse with over five years of experience in elderly care. I have worked closely with residents to manage chronic conditions, administer medications safely, and provide emotional support. I pride myself on my attention to detail and my ability to lead care teams effectively, ensuring residents receive the highest standard of care.”
2. Why do you want to work in a care home?
This question assesses motivation and alignment with care home values.
Answer:
“I have always been passionate about elderly care. I enjoy building strong relationships with residents, understanding their unique needs, and contributing to a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive.”
3. What do you know about our care home?
This evaluates preparation and research skills.
Answer:
“I have researched your care home and am impressed by your person-centered care approach and commitment to continuous staff training. Your recent initiatives in dementia care and wellbeing programs resonate with my professional values.”
Competency Questions and STAR Method Answers
Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is essential for competency questions.
4. Tell me about a time you handled a medical emergency.
Answer:
Situation: “During a night shift, a resident suddenly became unresponsive.”
Task: “I needed to assess the situation quickly and ensure immediate medical intervention.”
Action: “I called the emergency team, started CPR, and coordinated with my colleagues to manage the situation.”
Result: “The resident recovered fully, and the team appreciated the swift, calm handling of the emergency.”
5. Describe a time when you had to resolve a conflict with a colleague.
Answer:
Situation: “A colleague and I disagreed on care plan priorities.”
Task: “We needed to align our approach for the resident’s benefit.”
Action: “I suggested a calm discussion, listened to their perspective, and proposed a compromise based on best practice guidelines.”
Result: “We implemented a revised plan successfully, improving teamwork and resident care.”
6. Give an example of when you improved patient care processes.
Answer:
Situation: “Medication administration errors were occurring in the ward.”
Task: “I aimed to reduce errors and improve resident safety.”
Action: “I implemented a double-check system, trained staff on procedures, and introduced clear documentation protocols.”
Result: “Errors decreased by 90%, and staff reported increased confidence in medication management.”
7. Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership.
Answer:
Situation: “During a staff shortage, I was asked to lead the team.”
Task: “Ensure smooth operations and maintain resident care standards.”
Action: “I delegated tasks, provided guidance, and motivated the team throughout the shift.”
Result: “All residents received excellent care, and staff morale remained high.”
Behavioural and Situational Questions
8. How do you handle stress in a busy care home environment?
Answer:
“I prioritise tasks, communicate clearly with my team, and ensure I take short moments to reset. This helps me remain calm, focused, and effective under pressure.”
9. Describe a situation where you had to handle a difficult family member.
Answer:
“I encountered a relative upset about care decisions. I listened actively, explained procedures transparently, and involved them in the care planning. The family appreciated the clarity and respect, improving trust.”
10. How do you ensure compliance with care standards and regulations?
Answer:
“I stay updated with CQC guidelines, regularly audit care practices, and attend professional development sessions to ensure every resident receives safe, high-quality care.”
Technical and Clinical Questions
11. How do you manage medication errors?
Answer:
“First, I assess the resident’s safety, then report and document the error following protocol. I analyse the cause, implement preventative measures, and review team practices to avoid recurrence.”
12. Explain how you handle end-of-life care.
Answer:
“I provide compassionate, person-centered care, support families, manage symptoms effectively, and ensure dignity and comfort for the resident throughout the process.”
13. How do you monitor chronic conditions?
Answer:
“I maintain detailed records, conduct regular assessments, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to adjust care plans as necessary.”
14. How do you support residents with dementia?
Answer:
“I use memory aids, create structured routines, maintain patience, and employ communication strategies that promote understanding and engagement.”
Ending Questions and Answers
15. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer:
“Yes, I would love to hear more about staff development opportunities and your initiatives to improve resident wellbeing.”
16. Why should we hire you?
Answer:
“I bring a strong clinical background, leadership experience, and genuine compassion for residents. I am committed to delivering exceptional care and supporting your team in achieving the highest standards.”
17. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer:
“I aim to develop my expertise in geriatric care, take on leadership responsibilities, and contribute to innovative care practices within the home.”
Additional Key Interview Questions and Answers
How do you handle challenging behaviour from residents?
Answer: Use calm, empathetic communication, identify triggers, and implement personalised strategies to ensure safety.
What is your approach to teamwork?
Answer: Collaborate, support colleagues, and ensure all tasks are coordinated efficiently for residents’ benefit.
How do you maintain confidentiality?
Answer: Adhere to GDPR guidelines, handle records securely, and share information only on a need-to-know basis.
Describe a time you went above and beyond for a resident.
Answer: Personalised a care plan, coordinated with families, and arranged meaningful activities that significantly improved their wellbeing.
How do you keep up with new healthcare regulations?
Answer: Attend courses, read NHS updates, and participate in in-house training programs.
How would you handle a medication review disagreement with a GP?
Answer: Discuss concerns professionally, present evidence, and collaborate to reach the best decision for the resident.
How do you encourage resident independence?
Answer: Provide support without overassisting, encourage participation in daily activities, and personalise care plans.
How do you motivate and support junior staff?
Answer: Offer constructive feedback, mentorship, and recognition of achievements to maintain morale and competency.
General Interview Coaching Encouragement and Tips
Preparing for a care home nurse interview can feel daunting, but with structured practice, confidence, and the right mindset, success is highly achievable. Remember:
Research the care home thoroughly.
Use the STAR method for competency questions.
Stay calm, positive, and professional.
Show empathy, leadership, and clinical expertise.
Avoid negative comments about previous employers.
Ask insightful questions at the end to demonstrate genuine interest.
Do’s: Prepare examples, practice aloud, dress professionally, arrive early, and follow up with a thank-you note.
Don’ts: Don’t lie, over-exaggerate experience, interrupt, or appear unenthusiastic.
For personalised support, consider booking a session with a professional interview coach to improve your confidence and technique. Interview coaching online is also available for flexibility. With focused job interview preparation and structured guidance, you can approach your care home nurse interview with certainty and poise.
Investing time in interview training ensures you deliver impressive answers, demonstrate your value, and secure your dream role in elderly care.
