How to Write a Registered Nurse Cover Letter (with Sample)
Use this cover letter sample to help you write a powerful cover letter that separates you from the competition. Last updated on January 19th, 2019
A nurse cover letter is a well-written, single page document that’s submitted to a potential employer along with their resume when an individual is applying for the position of registered nurse. For best results, it’s better to address the letter to the appropriate individual or department.
If you’re applying for a nursing position, thoroughly research the institution first so you’re quite familiar with what the job entails and what to expect. This will make it easier for you to describe in detail all your qualifications that are related to the institution along with your accomplishments and both your professional and personal strengths as well. Although a resume is a document that’s more formal in nature, a cover letter offers you the chance to get somewhat personal while still remaining professional. It’s an opportunity for you to be friendly and allow the potential employer to see a slice of your personality. Ideally, a registered nurse cover letter should be easy to read and straight to the point. If you’re sending your resume electronically, this is even more important.
Research Your Potential Employer and Institution
It’s in your own best interest to specifically determine the needs of the employer and what the position involves so you can present your skills for the job. This may involve any future objectives, certain problems that managers are currently facing, and the general qualities of the staff.
The primary goal is to show the employer why you’re the best person for the job and why you’re a good fit. For example, include all your abilities and qualities when it comes to outstanding patient care and how you can contribute to enabling the facility to run as smoothly as possible.
Also, a good cover letter should obviously state any specialties that you’re proficient in such as pediatrics, anesthesiology, capable of running a clinic or doctor’s office, pre-natal care, geriatric care, ICU, etc.
What are Employers Looking for in a Registered Nurse?
Aside from your education and credentials, employers want to see other well-rounded traits in a registered nurse, some of which may include:
Strong Leadership Qualities -A registered nurse will likely need to know how to mentor other new nurses as well as offer helpful feedback to the administrators of the institution, families, and doctors.
Ability to Prioritize and Delegate Tasks -There will be LPMs (Licensed Practical Nurses) and other clinical aides that the registered nurse will need to assign various duties to based on their most critical needs and abilities.
Work Well Under Pressure -Registered nurses need to quickly evaluate a variety of problems at any given time throughout their work day and offer helpful solutions.
Tips for Writing a Registered Nurse Cover Letter:
Do not list your marital status, personal hobbies, or any memberships unless they’re directly related to the nursing profession.
Use professional-grade paper and refrain from using slang.
Be honest concerning your work experience since the institution will check your facts anyway.
Thoroughly proofread your work for any spelling or grammar errors.
Keep your cover letter concise and straight to the point.
Registered Nurse Cover Letter Sample Brenda Jones RN 234 Rock Drive Baltimore, MD, 20011
DATE
Personnel Director Human Resources Department Baltimore Hospital 123 Harbor Road Baltimore, MD, 20012
RE: Position for Registered Nurse (list ID number if applicable)
Dear Personnel Director:
I am writing about the available position at Baltimore Hospital for a registered nurse specializing in pediatric care. For the past seven years, I have worked and cared for children at ABC Hospital and found it particularly rewarding.
Due to my extensive education and vast experience in addition to my strong affinity with young people and children, I would love the opportunity to offer you my skills and knowledge working in your pediatric unit since I can truly appreciate how much you focus on your patients and their overall care.
Throughout my career, I have shown my ability to take on greater responsibilities and have therefore gained a great deal of experience as a registered nurse, which is extremely relevant to the nursing position available at your hospital.
Some of my specific skills and experience include:
Vast knowledge and experience in administration such as assessment, admissions, treatment, and handling the paperwork for insurance.
Supervising and providing excellent patient/resident care in my assigned unit.
Proficient case management concerning quality assurance and cost-effective care.
Extensive experience caring for patients in diverse situations such as infectious diseases and physically life-threatening injuries.
Several patient and family commendations for administering outstanding care on their behalf.
I am hoping to meet with you in person in order to discuss the specific requirements of your hospital’s pediatric unit in addition to my qualifications in greater detail. I appreciate your consideration and have enclosed my resume as well.
I will follow up in a couple of days to determine if there’s an appropriate time to possibly schedule an interview. You can contact me anytime at (123) 456-8765 or email at [email protected]