Writing a strong nursing CV can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to showcasing your unique skills, experience, and dedication to patient care. One of the most effective ways to navigate this process is by reviewing CV examples for nurses. In this post, I’ll help you gain insight into how to structure your own CV, what sections to include, and the types of language that highlights both your clinical expertise and compassionate approach to patient care. Whether you’re just starting your nursing career or seeking to advance in your career, seeing how others have successfully presented their experience can be a valuable guide, making your CV stronger, more focused, and tailored to the job you want!
General nurse CV example
WENDY GARCIA, RN
Philadelphia, PA
(123) 456-7890
silvialopez@gmail.com | linkedin.com/in/silvialopez
Objective
Compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse with 5+ years of experience in providing high-quality patient care in diverse healthcare settings. Skilled in acute care, patient education, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Seeking a challenging position in a healthcare facility where I can utilize my clinical expertise and compassionate approach to patient care.
Professional Experience
Registered Nurse
City General Hospital | Philadelphia, PA
May 2020 – Present
- Provide direct patient care in a 30-bed medical-surgical unit, including administering medications, wound care, and monitoring vital signs.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized patient care plans, resulting in improved patient outcomes.
- Educate patients and families on discharge planning, medications, and self-care practices, leading to a 15% reduction in hospital readmissions.
- Supervise and mentor nursing students and new hires, fostering a supportive and educational environment.
Registered Nurse
City Regional Clinic
Philadelphia, PA
July 2017 – April 2020
- Conducted patient assessments, prepared patients for examinations, and assisted physicians during outpatient procedures.
- Maintained accurate patient records, including medical histories and treatment plans, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Implemented infection control measures and hygiene practices, contributing to a zero-incident rate of hospital-acquired infections during tenure.
- Delivered patient-centered care by actively listening to concerns and providing emotional support, enhancing patient satisfaction scores by 20%.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Penn State
University Park, PA
Graduated: May 2017
Licenses & Certifications
- Registered Nurse (RN), State License #123456
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified, American Heart Association
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certified, American Heart Association
- Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse (CMSRN)
Key Skills
- Clinical Skills: Patient assessment, wound care, IV insertion, EKG interpretation, medication administration
- Patient Education: Discharge planning, medication management, self-care instructions
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication, active listening, patient advocacy
- Technical Skills: Proficient in Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems such as Epic and Cerner
- Team Collaboration: Experienced in interdisciplinary team coordination and leadership
Professional Affiliations
- American Nurses Association (ANA)
- Association of Medical-Surgical Nurses (AMSN)
Band 5 nurse CV example
Sarah Lee, RN
123 Health Avenue
Boston, MA
(123) 456-7890
sarahlee@gmail.com
Professional Profile
Dedicated and compassionate nurse dedicated to delivering patient-centered care in acute hospital settings. Skilled in clinical assessment, care planning, and teamwork, with a strong commitment to maintaining high standards of patient safety and quality care. Seeking an opportunity to leverage clinical skills and further develop professionally in a supportive healthcare environment.
Experience
Staff Nurse
City University Hospital, General Medicine Ward
Boston, MA
May 2023 – Present
- Provide high-quality, evidence-based care to patients in a 25-bed acute medical ward, including administration of medication, wound care, and vital sign monitoring.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans, improving patient satisfaction and outcomes.
- Conduct thorough patient assessments and contribute to care planning and discharge planning, reducing readmission rates by 12%.
- Educate patients and families on disease management and post-discharge care, enhancing patient engagement in their own care and promoting self-management.
- Adhere strictly to infection control protocols, contributing to a 98% compliance rate in hygiene and safety audits.
Staff Nurse (Graduate)
City Healthcare NHS Trust, Surgical Unit
Boston, MA
June 2019 – April 2021
- Supported senior nursing staff in delivering high-quality patient care, including post-operative care, pain management, and patient monitoring.
- Assisted in pre-operative and post-operative patient assessments, ensuring smooth transitions throughout the patient journey.
- Maintained accurate and up-to-date patient documentation, contributing to efficient communication among team members and continuity of care.
- Participated in educational sessions and training programs, enhancing clinical skills and knowledge in surgical nursing practices.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Boston University
Boston, MA
Graduated: May 2019
Licenses & Certifications
- Registered Nurse (RN), Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), License #123456
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certified
- IV Cannulation and Phlebotomy Certified
Key Skills
- Clinical Expertise: Patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, vital sign monitoring
- Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication, empathetic patient interactions, family education
- Team Collaboration: Experience working with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive patient care
- Technical Proficiency: Competent in electronic patient records and hospital systems, such as EPIC and Meditech
- Problem-Solving: Skilled in managing emergency situations, critical thinking, and providing quick interventions
Professional Development
- Infection Control Training: Completed ongoing infection prevention and control training, consistently meeting hospital standards.
- Patient Safety Workshops: Participated in NHS patient safety workshops, enhancing awareness and practical skills for patient risk management.
Professional Affiliations
- Royal College of Nursing (RCN)
- Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)
Newly Qualified Nurse CV Example
Alex Johnson
123 Nursing Lane
San Francisco, CA
(123) 456-7890
alexjohnson@gmail.com | linkedin.com/in/alexjohnson
Objective
Compassionate and motivated final-year nursing student with hands-on clinical experience in medical-surgical and pediatric settings. Skilled in patient assessment, care planning, and providing empathetic, evidence-based care. Eager to begin a nursing career in a supportive healthcare environment where I can apply my skills, continue to learn, and make a positive impact on patient care and outcomes.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
UCSF, School of Nursing
San Francisco, CA
Expected Graduation: May 2025
- GPA: 3.8/4.0
- Honors: Dean’s List (4 semesters), Nursing Excellence Scholarship Recipient
Clinical Experience
Clinical Rotation – Medical-Surgical Unit
UCSF Medical Center
San Francisco, CA
January 2024 – May 2024
- Conducted comprehensive patient assessments, administered medications, and performed wound care under supervision.
- Assisted in developing individualized care plans in collaboration with healthcare teams, gaining a strong foundation in patient-centered care.
- Educated patients and families on discharge instructions and medication management, enhancing understanding and adherence to treatment.
- Monitored vital signs, documented patient responses, and maintained accurate electronic health records (EHR), ensuring continuity of care.
Clinical Rotation – Pediatric Ward
Children’s Medical Center
San Francisco, CA
August 2023 – December 2023
- Provided direct care to pediatric patients, including assessment, hygiene support, and comfort measures.
- Supported families by educating them on child health and wellness, fostering a nurturing environment for patients.
- Collaborated with the interdisciplinary team to coordinate treatment plans, prioritize patient needs, and implement best practices in pediatric care.
- Gained hands-on experience with pediatric IV therapy, medication administration, and managing patient responses to treatments.
Certifications
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association, certified through 2025
- First Aid Certification – Red Cross
Key Skills
- Clinical Skills: Patient assessment, wound care, medication administration, infection control
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills; empathetic listener; skilled in patient and family education
- Technical Skills: Proficient in electronic health record (EHR) systems, including EPIC and Meditech
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Experience working with healthcare teams in clinical settings to provide high-quality patient care
- Time Management: Able to prioritize tasks in high-pressure situations, ensuring timely patient care
Relevant Coursework
- Nursing Fundamentals – Gained a strong foundation in basic nursing practices and patient-centered care.
- Pharmacology – Developed in-depth understanding of drug administration and patient safety protocols.
- Pathophysiology – Studied disease processes and clinical implications, building essential diagnostic skills.
- Mental Health Nursing – Completed a course focused on mental health assessment and intervention techniques.
Volunteer Experience
Volunteer Health Educator
SF Community Health Outreach Program
San Francisco, CA
June 2022 – Present
- Assist in organizing health education workshops focused on preventive care and wellness for local underserved populations.
- Provide basic health screenings and shared information on chronic disease management, helping increase health awareness in the community.
Student Nurse Association
SF City University, School of Nursing
San Francisco, CA
September 2021 – Present
- Participate in organizing student-led events, including blood drives and health fairs.
- Engage in leadership meetings to enhance peer support and improve student resources within the nursing program.
Sample resume for nurses with experience
Emily Davis, MSN, RN, CEN
123 Healthcare Drive
Anchorage, AK
(123) 456-7890 | emilydavis@gmail.com
Objective
Experienced Registered Nurse with 15+ years of expertise across emergency, critical care, and medical-surgical nursing. Recognized for strong leadership skills, patient advocacy, and dedication to delivering high-quality, compassionate care. Seeking a challenging role to contribute clinical expertise, mentor junior staff, and drive improvements in patient care and safety.
Professional Experience
Senior Registered Nurse – Emergency Department
Anchorage General Hospital
Anchorage, AK
January 2018 – Present
- Lead daily operations in a high-volume emergency department, providing direct patient care and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams.
- Administer life-saving interventions and perform complex procedures, including intubation, central line placement, and rapid trauma assessments.
- Precept new nurses and mentor staff, promoting professional growth and skill development.
- Participate in continuous quality improvement (CQI) projects, resulting in a 20% reduction in ED wait times and improved patient satisfaction scores.
- Collaborate with physicians and specialists to manage critical patients effectively, ensuring high-quality outcomes under pressure.
Charge Nurse – Critical Care Unit
Anchorage General Hospital
Anchorage, AK
July 2013 – December 2017
- Supervised a 12-bed ICU, providing advanced care to patients with critical conditions, including respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, and severe trauma.
- Developed individualized care plans in collaboration with healthcare teams, leading to a 15% decrease in length of stay for ICU patients.
- Managed staff scheduling and handled resource allocation, optimizing patient flow and department efficiency.
- Led patient and family education sessions to ensure understanding of complex care plans, enhancing patient and family satisfaction.
- Served as a liaison between nursing staff and administration, advocating for necessary resources and policy updates.
Staff Nurse – Medical-Surgical Unit
City Hospital
Wasilla, AK
September 2008 – June 2013
- Provided comprehensive care for patients with a variety of medical conditions, including post-operative recovery, chronic illness, and infectious disease.
- Administered medications, monitored patient responses, and performed detailed assessments to adjust care plans as needed.
- Actively engaged in discharge planning and patient education, reducing readmission rates by 10% through clear communication and follow-up protocols.
- Participated in hospital-wide safety initiatives, maintaining a high standard of care and contributing to a zero-incident rate in the unit.
Education
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
University of Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
May 2015
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
University of Anchorage
Anchorage, AK
May 2008
Licenses & Certifications
- Registered Nurse (RN), State License #123456
- Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – American Heart Association
- Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)
Your Future Starts Here
Sample CV for nurses applying abroad
Sarah Thompson, RN, BSN
123 Healthcare Drive
Phoenix, AZ
(123) 456-7890
sarahthompson@outlook.com
Personal Profile
Compassionate and highly skilled Registered Nurse with 8 years of experience in acute and critical care settings. Proficient in patient assessment, emergency care, and family education. Committed to upholding high standards of patient-centered care and dedicated to continual professional development. Seeking an opportunity in the NHS to contribute to patient care excellence and gain exposure to the UK healthcare environment.
Key Skills
- Clinical Expertise: Emergency response, ICU care, IV therapy, wound care, patient assessment
- Technical Proficiency: Skilled in electronic health record systems (EPIC, Cerner), patient monitoring technology
- Patient Education: Experience in family and patient education for post-operative and chronic illness management
- Team Collaboration: Strong team player with effective communication skills, able to work with multidisciplinary teams
- Leadership & Mentorship: Experienced preceptor and mentor to nursing students and junior staff, supporting professional growth
International Nursing Experience
Volunteer Nurse
International Health Outreach Program, Rural Health Clinic
South America
June 2019 – August 2019
- Provided healthcare services, including vaccinations and health screenings, to underserved populations in rural clinics.
- Conducted health education sessions on hygiene and disease prevention, contributing to improved community health outcomes.
Professional Development and Training
- Infection Control and Prevention – Completed 2022
- Cultural Competency in Healthcare – Workshop completed, 2020
- Mental Health Awareness Training – Completed online, Nursing Times Learning, 2021
- Understanding NHS Standards and Guidelines – Self-directed learning to familiarise with UK protocols and best practices
Professional Affiliations
- American Nurses Association (ANA)
- Emergency Nurses Association (ENA)
- International Council of Nurses (ICN)
Professional Experience
Senior Staff Nurse – Emergency Department
City General Hospital
Phoenix, AZ
January 2017 – Present
- Provided direct care in a busy emergency department, managing patient loads of 25+ daily, including trauma cases and life-threatening conditions.
- Conducted rapid patient assessments and triaged patients to appropriate care pathways, reducing wait times and improving patient flow.
- Collaborated with physicians, specialists, and allied health professionals to develop comprehensive care plans.
- Trained new nursing staff in emergency protocols and documentation standards, contributing to a well-prepared team.
Registered Nurse – Intensive Care Unit
City Regional Medical Center
Phoenix, AZ
June 2014 – December 2016
- Delivered critical care to patients with complex medical conditions, providing advanced respiratory and cardiovascular support.
- Implemented individualized patient care plans to optimize outcomes, reducing ICU readmission rates by 15%.
- Provided education and support to families in the ICU, explaining complex conditions and care processes to promote understanding and reduce anxiety.
- Conducted patient assessments, administered medications, and used advanced equipment to monitor patient progress.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Arizona State University, School of Nursing
Tempe, AZ
May 2014
Licenses and Certifications
- Registered Nurse (RN) – State License, USA (Active)
- Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Registration – Pending/Active (Note: Mention the NMC Pin if already registered)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association, valid through 2025
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association, valid through 2025
- Paediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – American Heart Association, valid through 2025
How do you write a CV as a nurse?
Tips for Writing a Strong Nurse CV
Now that you’ve seen some strong CV examples for nurses, here are some general tips for writing a strong nurse CV:
- Use Clear Formatting: Use bullet points, bold headings, and consistent fonts to ensure readability.
- Tailor Your CV for Each Job: Emphasize skills and experiences that align with the job description.
- Highlight Achievements: Whenever possible, add metrics (like reduced wait times or improved patient outcomes) to showcase the impact of your work.
- Be Concise: Aim for a 1-2 page CV that’s easy to read, with concise, impactful descriptions of your experience.
Sample Outline
Here’s a quick outline for a nurse’s CV:
- Contact Information
- Objective or Personal Statement
- Professional Experience
- Education
- Licenses and Certifications
- Key Skills
- Professional Development & Continuing Education
- Volunteer Experience
- Professional Affiliations
Following these steps, in addition to getting tips from our CV examples for nurses above, will help you create a CV that highlights your nursing skills, experience, and dedication in a professional format.
Do nurses use a CV or a resume?
Nurses typically use resumes when applying for jobs in the U.S. and Canada, as resumes are more concise and focused on relevant job experience, skills, and accomplishments. However, CVs are often required for more academic, research-oriented, or international roles. Here’s a breakdown of when each is appropriate:
When to Use a Resume:
- Clinical Nursing Positions: Most hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare employers expect a resume that’s brief (1-2 pages) and highlights relevant experience, certifications, and skills.
- Entry-Level or Mid-Career Nursing Roles: For bedside nursing jobs, including registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and specialized nursing roles, a resume is typically preferred.
- Job Applications in the U.S. or Canada: Resumes are the standard format for job applications in North America.
When to Use a CV:
- Academic or Research Positions: For roles in nursing education, research, or roles affiliated with universities, a CV is common. It provides a more comprehensive overview, including publications, research, teaching experience, and academic presentations.
- Advanced Practice or Specialized Roles: For positions like nurse educators, clinical nurse specialists, or nursing researchers, employers may prefer a CV that details both practical experience and academic contributions.
- International Opportunities: In many countries outside the U.S. and Canada, CVs are standard for job applications, so nurses seeking positions abroad may need a CV.
Key Differences
- Length: A resume is usually 1-2 pages, while a CV can be much longer, especially if it includes academic and research accomplishments.
- Content: Resumes focus on recent work experience, relevant skills, and certifications, while CVs include more detailed academic achievements, publications, and presentations.
For most clinical nursing positions, sticking with a resume is best. However, having a CV on hand is beneficial if you are considering a role in academia, research, or international work.
What is the best format for a nurse resume?
Tips for Formatting a Nurse Resume:
- Keep it concise: Aim for 1-2 pages, focusing on relevant, recent experience.
- Use clear headings and bullet points: This improves readability, especially for busy hiring managers.
- Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each job application by emphasizing skills and experience that match the job description.
- Quantify achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers (e.g., “reduced readmission rates by 10%”) to demonstrate your impact.
- Professional formatting: Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman (size 10-12pt), and maintain consistent margins and spacing throughout the document.
This format presents your skills and experience in a way that is easy to read and highlights your qualifications, making it an effective tool for securing a nursing position.
In Summary
Reviewing sample nursing CVs is an invaluable step in crafting your own because it provides clarity and inspiration. By analyzing the well-structured examples in this post, you have hopefully seen how experienced professionals can highlight their qualifications, skills, and achievements in a concise and impactful way. Samples also help you understand what recruiters expect, ensuring your CV is tailored to the healthcare field and its specific requirements. They can spark ideas for presenting your experiences, whether it’s showcasing clinical rotations, certifications, or specialized skills. Ultimately, studying sample CVs empowers you to create a polished, professional document that reflects your unique qualifications and positions you as a strong candidate in a competitive job market.
