Questions to Ask During CNA Interview
Strategic questions to ask during Certified Nursing Assistant interviews, helping you assess the role and demonstrate your understanding of patient care.
1What is the patient-to-CNA ratio on your units?
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What is the patient-to-CNA ratio on your units?
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Why this works
Reveals the workload while providing insight into whether the staffing levels are manageable and allow for quality care.
2What is the typical daily routine and schedule for CNAs?
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What is the typical daily routine and schedule for CNAs?
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Why this works
Shows their operations while revealing what a typical work day looks like and what tasks you'll be responsible for.
3What training and orientation do you provide for new CNAs?
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What training and orientation do you provide for new CNAs?
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Why this works
Reveals their onboarding process while showing their commitment to preparing new staff for success.
4What opportunities exist for professional development and advancement?
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What opportunities exist for professional development and advancement?
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Why this works
Shows their growth potential while revealing whether they support CNAs who want to advance their careers in healthcare.
5How do you support CNAs in managing the physical demands of the job?
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How do you support CNAs in managing the physical demands of the job?
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Why this works
Reveals their employee care while providing insight into what resources and support are available for physical wellness.
6What is your approach to teamwork and collaboration among staff?
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What is your approach to teamwork and collaboration among staff?
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Why this works
Shows their culture while revealing how nurses, CNAs, and other staff work together to provide patient care.
7How do you handle scheduling and shift changes?
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How do you handle scheduling and shift changes?
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Why this works
Reveals their flexibility while providing insight into how they manage schedules and accommodate staff needs.
8What is your policy on mandatory overtime?
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What is your policy on mandatory overtime?
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Why this works
Shows their expectations while revealing whether you'll be required to work additional hours beyond your schedule.
9What technology and equipment do CNAs use here?
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What technology and equipment do CNAs use here?
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Why this works
Reveals their tools while providing insight into what equipment you'll be working with and what technology skills you'll need.
10How do you handle patient safety and infection control?
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How do you handle patient safety and infection control?
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Why this works
Shows their safety culture while revealing their commitment to protecting both patients and staff from harm.
11What is the communication process between CNAs and nursing staff?
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What is the communication process between CNAs and nursing staff?
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Why this works
Reveals their communication structure while showing how CNAs report concerns and collaborate with the healthcare team.
12How do you support CNAs who are dealing with difficult patients or families?
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How do you support CNAs who are dealing with difficult patients or families?
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Why this works
Shows their support system while revealing what resources are available when you encounter challenging situations.
13What is the typical length of employment for CNAs at your facility?
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What is the typical length of employment for CNAs at your facility?
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Why this works
Reveals their retention while providing insight into whether CNAs stay long-term or if there's high turnover.
14What certifications or continuing education do you require or support?
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What certifications or continuing education do you require or support?
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Why this works
Shows their professional development while revealing their expectations and support for ongoing learning.
15How do you handle performance reviews and feedback?
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How do you handle performance reviews and feedback?
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Why this works
Reveals their evaluation process while providing insight into how they assess and support CNA performance.
16What is the dress code and uniform policy?
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What is the dress code and uniform policy?
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Why this works
Shows their expectations while revealing what you'll need to wear and whether uniforms are provided.
17How do you handle workplace injuries and workers' compensation?
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How do you handle workplace injuries and workers' compensation?
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Why this works
Reveals their safety support while providing insight into what happens if you're injured on the job.
18What is the most challenging aspect of working as a CNA here?
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What is the most challenging aspect of working as a CNA here?
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Why this works
Shows realistic expectations while revealing the difficulties you might face in this particular facility.
19How do you ensure CNAs feel valued and appreciated?
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How do you ensure CNAs feel valued and appreciated?
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Why this works
Reveals their employee recognition while showing how they acknowledge and appreciate CNA contributions.
20What questions do you have about my experience and qualifications?
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What questions do you have about my experience and qualifications?
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Why this works
Creates dialogue while showing your interest in addressing any concerns they may have about your fit for the role.
Best Practices for CNA Interviews
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Research the Facility
Learn about the facility's reputation, patient population, and approach to care before the interview.
Ask About Both Patient Care and Work Environment
Balance questions about patient care responsibilities with questions about staffing, support, and work culture.
Show Your Commitment to Quality Care
Demonstrate that you're focused on providing excellent patient care while also advocating for your own needs.
Question Sequences
The Workload Assessment
The Support and Growth Focus
Common Pitfalls
Don't Focus Only on Pay and Benefits
While important, also ask about patient care, staffing levels, and workplace culture to ensure it's a good fit.
Avoid Negative Questions About Previous Employers
Focus on learning about this facility rather than complaining about past workplaces.
Don't Skip Questions About Support
Ask about training, resources, and support systems to ensure you'll have what you need to succeed.