30 Best LPN Interview Questions and Answers for Practical Nurse Position
Jake Flannigan, NP
August 20, 2025
Preparing for an LPN Interview
Successful interviews start with preparation. Take time to review common LPN interview questions and practice clear, confident answers that highlight your strengths and experiences. Research the facility so you can explain why you want to work there and how your skills align with its values. Think about examples from clinicals, past jobs, or school that demonstrate your ability to handle stress, work in a team, and provide compassionate care. It’s also helpful to practice scenario-based questions, since these show how you would react in real situations. Finally, plan your professional attire, arrive early, and bring any requested documents. The more prepared you are, the more confident and capable you will appear to your interviewer.
Scenario Questions in an LPN Interview
Scenario-based questions are designed to test how you think on your feet and apply your nursing knowledge in real situations. Instead of asking about your background, the interviewer may present a problem and ask how you would respond. For example, you might be asked how you would handle a patient showing new symptoms, what you would do if a family member complained about care, or how you would react if a coworker ignored safety protocols. These questions don’t always have a “right” answer, but interviewers are looking for calm, thoughtful, and professional responses.
When answering, take a moment to think before you speak. Show that patient safety is your first priority, explain the steps you would take, and mention how you would communicate with the healthcare team. It’s also important to highlight empathy and respect for patients and families while following proper procedures. Sharing a past clinical or work example, if possible, makes your answer stronger and more believable.
Questions to Ask in an LPN Interview
- What are the everyday duties of an LPN in this facility?
- What is the average nurse-to-patient ratio?
- Will I receive orientation or training when I begin?
- What opportunities for career advancement are available?
- Can you tell me about the team I will be working with?
- How does this facility support continuing education or skill development?
Questions Not to Ask in an LPN Interview
- Have I been selected for the job?
- What will my exact salary be?
- When will I get a promotion?
- Will I need to take a drug test or background check?
- Can you share personal details about yourself?
- Will my internet or browsing history be monitored?
Common LPN Interview Questions and Answers
Why did you choose to become a Licensed Practical Nurse?
Be honest about your motivation, whether inspired by family, a passion for helping others, or interest in healthcare. There’s no “perfect” answer, but sincerity matters most.
Why do you want to work in this facility?
Show you’ve researched the organization. Mention what you admire about it and how your skills align with its needs.
How do you deal with pressure and stressful situations?
Explain healthy coping strategies, like staying calm, focusing on solutions, or using past examples where you managed stress effectively.
Tell us about your strengths.
Highlight qualities that fit nursing—teamwork, problem-solving, compassion, or reliability. Use examples from past school or work experience.
What are your weaknesses?
Choose an honest but manageable weakness, and explain how you’re improving it. Avoid answers that reflect poorly on your professionalism.
Do you consider yourself a team worker or individual worker?
Show flexibility by sharing that you can work both independently and as part of a team, with examples of each.
What would you do if a family member complains about patient care?
Emphasize listening, patience, apologizing when appropriate, and quickly addressing concerns.
If a staff member breaks policy, what would you do?
Explain that you would follow procedure and report it to supervisors to protect patients and the facility.
What are your long-term career goals?
Share realistic goals such as advancing to RN or gaining experience in a specialty area, showing commitment to growth.
Why should I hire you?
Focus on your qualifications, dedication, and ability to contribute to patient care.
If hired, how long would you work with the facility?
Show willingness to stay long-term and grow with the organization.
Are you willing to relocate or travel?
Answer honestly and enthusiastically, making clear your flexibility if possible.
Tell me about yourself.
Keep it concise, education, experience, key skills, and a bit about what motivates you in nursing.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for Your LPN Interview
By reviewing the best LPN interview questions and answers, you’ll be better prepared to showcase both your nursing knowledge and your soft skills. Employers want to see that you can provide safe, compassionate patient care while working as part of a healthcare team. When preparing for an LPN interview, practice your answers out loud, highlight real-life examples from clinical experience, and show enthusiasm for the role. With the right preparation, confidence, and professionalism, you’ll stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of landing your next Licensed Practical Nurse position.