How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter

Keith Carlson, RN, NC-BC

NurseJournal.org is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for NurseJournal.org as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

  • How to Write a Cover Letter
  • Mistakes to Avoid
  • Cover Letter Tips
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Sample nursing cover letter, are you ready to earn your online nursing degree.

Man typing cover letter on a laptop

A nursing cover letter is still crucial in the job application process. It’s often the first impression a potential employer will have of you. A cover letter is a chance to tell your story and call attention to aspects of your resume you want a reviewer to notice.

It’s also a chance to explain to an employer why you want to work for them, what you know about them, and why you’re an ideal candidate. A strong cover letter can tip the balance in your favor, helping you stand out from the competition and land an interview.

In the following guide, we walk you through writing a strong nursing cover letter, mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips that will keep you focused. Check out our downloadable nursing cover letter template and a sample letter to get started. Once you master the process, you’ll be writing winning cover letters in no time.

4 Steps to Write Your Nursing Cover Letter

Writing a cover letter can feel overwhelming for many nurses, especially because it’s difficult to know what to say, how much to reiterate what’s on your resume , and what information to include or not. A cover letter is an opportunity to explain aspects of your professional or personal history that a resume can’t always get across. Your passion and interests come through, along with your ability to communicate clearly. Review the following steps to write a stand-out cover letter. Feel free to use our sample letter and downloadable template. The cover letter is a significant part of convincing employers that they absolutely need to meet you!

Create a Header with Your Contact Information

Introduce yourself and note the position you’re applying for in the opening paragraph, highlight your skills and the reasons you want to work for this employer, write a closing paragraph and restate your interest, 7 mistakes to avoid in your nursing cover letter.

  • Submitting Spelling and Grammar Errors: Nursing requires excellent documentation and attention to detail. Grammatical errors are unprofessional, and they can paint a picture of someone who doesn’t value attention to detail. Many resume reviewers will likely pass on a candidate whose resume and/or cover letter contain errors.
  • Copying Your Resume: Your nursing cover letter can highlight aspects of your resume , but it shouldn’t be a verbatim copy. Find creative ways to underscore your key characteristics, skills, or experiences without repetition.
  • Using Incorrect or Inconsistent Format: It’s best practice for your cover letter and resume to match in terms of design, font, and format. This creates a branded, visually cohesive application package.
  • Forgetting to Tie Your Qualifications to the Position: Your cover letter should be targeted and specific, addressing the position you’re applying for and its qualifications, skills, and responsibilities. If you don’t tie your qualifications to the job in question, that makes a weak case for you getting an interview.
  • Failing to Address the Letter to a Specific Person or Department: Many postings fail to provide the name of an individual or a department to address in your letter. If they provide this information, use it. If they don’t, you can use the generic “Hiring Manager” or “Hiring Committee”.
  • Starting Every Paragraph with “I”: Be creative in finding different ways to begin each paragraph (see our sample letter for examples). If two paragraphs begin with “I”, that’s OK, but no more than that.

Tips from Nurses on Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter

Research potential employers, explain relevant skills that meet the position’s qualifications, include your soft skills, highlight your best qualities, demonstrate your passion, showcase your ability and willingness to learn, check for errors, frequently asked questions about nursing cover letters, what should a nurse cover letter include.

A nurse cover letter should include a header with your name, credentials, and contact information, plus the receiver’s contact information. The body of the letter should specifically address the position you’re applying for, and how you can fulfill the characteristics, credentials, skills, knowledge, and expertise required.

What should a nurse cover letter not include?

Your cover letter does not need to include phrases like, “My references are available upon request”; “Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns”; or “I can be contacted via email at _____________or via phone at _____________.” These are all givens, and if your contact information is in your header, there’s no need to say it again.

What’s the difference between a new grad nurse cover letter and an experienced nurse cover letter?

A new grad nurse cover letter can’t demonstrate the level of skill, expertise, and knowledge as a seasoned nurse. New grads haven’t accumulated years of nursing experience, but they have their academic and clinical performance, enthusiasm, passion, and related healthcare experience to share, whether paid or volunteer. When employers advertise new grad positions, they understand that new grad resumes and letters can’t reflect the resumes of experienced nurses.

Are nursing cover letters necessary?

In these days of online applications, a cover letter may be optional, meaning that applicants can upload a cover letter if they choose to. For some applications, a cover letter will be required. Consider this: if a cover letter is optional, why not go the extra mile and write a strong one? If your resume and experience are comparable to another candidate’s, your cover letter could give you the edge. After all, a resume can’t by nature express much personality, but a cover letter can. So, make a strong impression with a well-crafted letter, whether it’s required or not.

Download our cover letter template (DOCX, 14KB)

Name and Credentials

Town, State | Phone | Email

Personalized LinkedIn profile URL (optional)

Dept and/or contact person Facility or organization Street Town, State, Zip

Dear ________________:

Paragraph 1: Begin by stating the position for which you are applying. Say something about the organization to demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and understand what they’re all about, and that this letter is not at all “cookie-cutter” in nature.

Paragraph 2: Share select highlights of your career, expertise, experience, skills, or personal characteristics that are directly applicable to this position and/or this employer. You can emphasize something from your resume that you want them to make note of, as long as you don’t use exactly the same language as your resume, which is redundant.

Paragraph 3: This is a good place to highlight some of your “soft skills” (e.g., communication, emotional intelligence, relational intelligence, patient education, compassion, empathy, etc).

Paragraph 4: Here you can call attention to your computer skills, EMR experience, etc., as well as any other tech skills worth mentioning.

Closing paragraph: Tie the letter together, reiterate your interest, and express your enthusiastic desire to have the opportunity to meet to discuss your experience and the position further.

Sincerely, Your name and credentials

Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Annabelle, HA | 000-000-1000 | [email protected]

LinkedIn.com/in/MichaelSchwartzfoffianbsnrn

April 3, 2023

Department of Nursing Recruitment University of Tabula Rasa Medical Center 301 Rasa Drive Glen Tabularea, MOO 22222

Dear Nursing Recruitment Department:

As a caring and dedicated summa cum laude graduate of Adelphi University’s BSN program, please accept my enthusiastic interest in the Registered Nurse – Respiratory/Intermediate Care position posted on your website. I am both personally and professionally aligned with the values that are a very clear aspect of your organization’s mission. From your “Power of Caring” funding of your expanded Outpatient Care Center to your “Next Generation” initiative, I can clearly see the forward-thinking philosophy underlying UTRMC and its reputation as an innovative facility and community member.

During my education, I thrived in clinical practice where I received positive preceptor feedback following each rotation. I am highly coachable, and as you can see from my resume, I bring more than six years’ related healthcare experience as both an EMT and CNA. I am already well-versed in code blue response, Foley catheter insertion and care, venipuncture, ECG interpretation, and non-complex wound care. Comfortable in new settings, I am not afraid to ask questions to enhance my learning and improve the quality of care I deliver to patients and their families. I thrive in multidisciplinary environments, and I use my highly-developed communication skills and emotional and relational intelligence to foster a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among my colleagues, and nurse-patient relationships built on trust.

As a digital native and quick learner, I am highly competent using the Epic and Cerner EMRs and Microsoft Office Suite, and I have full confidence in my natural curiosity and powers of critical thinking in relation to learning new technologies and digital interfaces.

I have a great deal to contribute as a member of the UTRMC community of clinicians. I look forward to discussing the intersection of my skills and experience with the needs of your inspiring organization that embraces its role beyond the actual facility and into the surrounding community it serves.

Sincerely, Miguel Schwartzkoffnian, BSN, RN

Page last reviewed on February 24, 2023

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

You might be interested in

HESI vs. TEAS Exam: The Differences Explained

HESI vs. TEAS Exam: The Differences Explained

Nursing schools use entrance exams to make admissions decisions. Learn about the differences between the HESI vs. TEAS exams.

10 Nursing Schools That Don’t Require TEAS or HESI Exam

10 Nursing Schools That Don’t Require TEAS or HESI Exam

For Chiefs’ RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Nursing Runs in the Family

For Chiefs’ RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Nursing Runs in the Family

Nurse.org

How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter That Stands Out + Examples

  • Do You Need One?
  • What to Include
  • 6 Common Mistakes
  • Cover Letter Template
  • Cover Letter Example
  • Don't Forget It!

How to write a nursing cover letter

You're not alone if you think writing a nursing cover letter is intimidating. However, a great cover letter may be the difference between landing the job or having your application ignored. 

Keep reading for expert advice regarding the importance and benefits of writing a nursing cover letter and common mistakes to avoid, and some examples you can use!

Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs

Grand Canyon University

GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals. GCU offers a full spectrum of nursing degrees, from a pre-licensure BSN degree to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program.

Enrollment: Nationwide

  • MSN - Family NP
  • MSN - Adult Gerontology Acute Care NP
  • MSN - Nursing Education
  • MSN - Health Informatics
  • MSN - Public Health Nursing
  • MSN - Health Care Quality & Patient Safety
  • MBA & MSN - Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems
  • See more GCU nursing programs

Western Governors University

WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.

  • BSN-to-MSN - Family NP
  • BSN-to-MSN - Psychiatric Mental Health NP
  • BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
  • RN-to-MSN - Nursing Education
  • RN-to-MSN - Nursing Leadership & Management

Grand Canyon University

  • BSN-to-MSN - Nurse Admin
  • BSN-to-MSN - Nurse Educator
  • BSN-to-MSN - Nursing Informatics
  • BSN-to-MSN - Community Health
  • BSN-to-MSN - Health Policy

Grand Canyon University

Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.

  • MSN - Women's Health NP
  • MSN - Nurse-Midwifery/Women's Health NP

Grand Canyon University

Do You Need Nursing Cover Letters?  

The cover letter is your chance to highlight your past experience and let the hiring manager know why you believe you're the best fit for the role. The hiring manager will quickly notice you are motivated and enthusiastic about the job prospect. 

It's also your first chance to show your articulation and communication skills. A well-crafted cover letter makes an impression that instantly sets you apart from other applicants. 

Benefits of Writing a Nursing Cover Letter

Most candidates don't take the time to create a cover letter. In the world of online applications, attaching one is usually optional and feels like extra work. So many applicants fill out the bare minimum and move on to the next job posting. 

Stand out from the competition - Write a killer cover letter. 

Why you should take the time to create your cover letter

  • Increase chances your application is reviewed
  • Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and qualifications
  • Showcase your personality and communication skills
  • Make a great first impression
  • Show your interest in the position/company

Your resume is important, but the cover letter sets the tone for your entire application. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Nursing Resumes to learn more about current resume etiquette and trends.

Writing a nursing resume can feel overwhelming. It’s no easy task! Nowadays, nursing resumes must be able to pass through resume reading software before it even reaches a recruiter. That’s why we’ve put together THREE nurse resume templates to cater to your unique professional needs and employment situation.

cover letter template nursing

By clicking download, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Your request has been received. Thanks!

cover letter template nursing

What to Include in Your Nursing Cover Letter

Did you learn how to write business letters in school? Have you forgotten everything about how to format them? You’re not alone - we’ve got your back here at Nurse.org. 

Let's go through the basic format of a nursing cover letter that can be used at any stage of your professional development, including entry-level and specialty changes. 

The header is simple; it’s just contact information for both you and the hiring organization. The basic format is:

Phone Number

Email Address

Street Address  

  • City, ST, Zip Code

Hiring Manager (Use name if possible)

  • Healthcare Organization 

The best advice here is to find out the hiring manager's name so you can personalize the greeting. 

How to find out the name of a hiring manager:

  • If you have a connection in the organization, ask who will review your application. 
  • Review the company website or LinkedIn to find the manager or director for the position. 
  • Call the Human resources department. This can be hit or miss, but it's worth a shot if you haven't found the right person. 

Generic greetings should be your last resort. If you've tried and still can't find the name, "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Nursing Recruitment Team" will work. You'll wow them with the rest of your letter. 

Paragraph #1: Opening

In the opening paragraph, identify the position you're applying for and briefly state why you're a good fit. HR and hiring managers often look at resumes for several positions, so this is a chance to remind them that you are applying for X opportunity. It signals the hiring manager to read the rest of your letter and resume with that position in mind. 

Paragraph #2: Background & Qualifications

Your qualifications paragraph is the most important one in your cover letter. Briefly summarize your background, skills, and traits that make you the perfect candidate for the position in about 2-3. Use keywords from the posted job description that complement your skill set. You can also use bullet points to make this paragraph stand out.

Note for new grads: All of your background experience is valuable. Suppose you don't have healthcare-specific work experience. In that case, you can highlight customer service skills, eagerness to learn new processes, and highlights from nursing school clinical experiences. 

Notes for nurses transitioning to new specialties: Give a brief career synopsis and highlight the skills you think will best transfer to the new specialty. Emphasize strengths that align with the job position posting. 

Paragraph #3: Compliment the Organization

Your final paragraph shows you're serious about the position. Research the organization and state why you want to join their team. You can find great information and keywords to use on the job post or their website.

Closing the Nursing Cover Letter

Your closing sentence is brief and invites further conversation. Restate your contact information and Invite the hiring manager to discuss the role further. Then, add in a final closure and your signature. Congratulations,  your letter is complete!

The closure should be respectful and professional. Examples include

  • Respectfully
  • Sincerely yours
  • Yours truly
  • With warm regards
  • Best regards

How to List Your Nursing Credentials

It’s easy to get confused about how to list your nursing credentials. The correct way to sign your name with credentials is:

[Name], [Highest level of education completed], [License type], [Certifications]

Jane completed an associate degree and is a Registered Nurse without other certifications (yet). Her signature is Jane Doe, ADN, RN

If Jane goes on to complete her BSN and Pediatric certification, her signature changes to: Jane Doe, BSN, RN, CPN

We’ve got templates below to help you get started, but first let’s review some common mistakes you should avoid. 

6 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Nursing Cover Letter   

Writing a great nursing cover letter may seem daunting, but the process does get easier with practice. Here are a few common nursing cover letter mistakes and pitfalls to avoid.

1. Leaving Grammatical Errors and Typos

Most programs have some spell and grammar check capabilities, but don't rely on them alone. Websites such as grammarly.com offer free proofreading and grammar review. Make sure to review that all names are correctly spelled.

2. Using a Generic Greeting

Do your research to find the hiring manager’s name. If you can’t find it, open the letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid “To whom it may concern” at all costs. 

3. Forgetting to add Keywords

Read the job description carefully. Find keywords that relate to your experience and use them throughout the cover letter. 

4. Not Following Instructions

Follow any specific requirements listed in the job description or application website. If the listing says to upload your cover letter as a PDF, save your document as a PDF before submitting it. 

This is your first test to see if you pay attention to detail and follow directions. Don't fail before you even get started!!

5. Using the Same Cover Letter for Different Jobs

Each position and organization are unique; don’t repeatedly use the same letter. However, you also don't need to start from scratch each time! 

Save your cover letters as you write them so they’re available to edit next time. Highlight different skills if needed. Make it personal to the new position by including keywords from the job listing.

6. Forgetting to Proofread and Edit

Notice how #1 and #6 are almost identical? It’s on purpose - proofreading is the most critical aspect of writing. Here are some tips to help you make sure your cover letter is perfect:

Read your letter out loud. Does it make sense? Do any of the sentences sound strange when you read them out loud? 

Walk away . Putting a bit of time between writing and finalizing your edits can make a world of difference in the final draft.

Enlist a friend. Ask a  trusted friend, career advisor, or faculty member to read the letter before you hit send. 

Nursing Cover Letter Template

Here’s everything your nursing cover letter should include.

City, State, Zip Code

Healthcare Organization Name

Telephone Number

Email address

Dear (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) ________,

Dear Nursing Recruitment Team,

Opening: 2-3 sentences that express your excitement. Name the exact position you are applying for and the organization. Briefly state why you are the best fit. 

Background & Qualifications: 2-4 sentences to highlight your applicable certifications, achievements and strengths. You may use bullet format to draw attention to this section.

Compliment the Organization: 2-3 sentences to show you’ve researched the organization and position. Highlight organizational values that align with yours.

Closing sentence: Thank the hiring manager for taking time to review your application. Invite them to contact you to arrange an interview. 

With warm regards, 

Your Name, (credentials)

Example Nursing Cover Letter

(718) 555–0100

[email protected]

123 Main Street; 

City, ST 12345

August 01, 2023

Hailey Johnson

Human Resources

Mercy Healthcare

123 Broadway Ave;  City, ST 12300

Dear Ms. Hailey Johnson,

I am excited to apply for the Registered Nurse residency program at Mercy Healthcare. I recently graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing and believe the skills and knowledge gained during nursing school will be highly valuable to your team.

I received excellent clinical reviews throughout nursing school and graduated with honors. I have excellent time-management skills and look forward to further developing hands-on skills through clinical practice. My ability to coordinate tasks and collaborate with others allows me to provide excellent patient care. 

Mercy Healthcare is well-known for patient-centered care and shared governance. I look forward to making a difference in patients’ lives through compassion, dedication, and excellent nursing care. 

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached at (718) 555–0100 or [email protected] to arrange an interview and further discuss my qualifications.

Ava Smith, BSN, RN

Don't Forget Your Cover Letter!

Always, always, always attach a cover letter to your job applications. These templates should help you get started. Attaching a cover letter immediately sets you apart from the candidates who do not take the time to write or attach one. Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to  common interview questions for when you get that call.

Joleen Sams

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

Nurses making heats with their hands

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. You may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

Jacob Meade

  • Cover Letter Examples
  • Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Nursing Cover Letter

When writing your nursing cover letter, focus on how you can support patients’ health and recovery at the hospital or facility that posted the job. Also, emphasize your related skills like problem-solving, family relations, or medication administration.

This guide will help you write a cover letter that gets you interviews for your next job in nursing.

Nursing Cover Letter Templates and Examples

  • Entry-Level
  • Senior-Level

Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

Nursing Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Philip Glossman Licensed Practical Nurse | [email protected] | (540) 123-4567 | 689 Whisper Lane, Thornburg, VA 22565

January 1, 2024

Dr. Ralph Hughes Nursing Director Hughes Home, Inc. (540) 098-7654 [email protected]

Dear Dr. Hughes,

When my grandmother moved into your community five years ago, I knew that I wanted to serve families at Hughes Home upon completing my nursing education. In response to your Indeed listing, I gladly offer my skills and experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Since acquiring my nursing degree and LPN license in 2017, I have set my career path toward caring for individuals living in residential facilities. As a part of your team, I can bring:

  • Efficiency: I can perform many tasks, such as medication administration, injections, and catheters independently.
  • Communication: My current management has commended me for excellent bedside manners and teamwork.
  • Dependability: I’ve maintained a perfect attendance record at my current position.

Now that you have a need for a professional with my credentials, I am eager to discuss with you how I can contribute to the ongoing success of the community that cared for my grandmother. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to set up an interview.

Best regards,

Philip Glossman

Zoey Logan Registered Nurse | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 South St., San Diego, 12345

January 7, 2024

Jessica Stanley Senior Hiring Manager San Diego West Medical (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Stanley,

At San Diego Bay Hospital, I have been named employee of the year twice (2016 and 2018) and received numerous accolades and commendations for my excellent patient care skills. I would be proud to replicate this success at San Diego West Medical.

In addition to a master’s degree in nursing, I have over five years of proven experience providing high levels of care to all my patients. Due to my extensive medical knowledge, management experience, and patient-centered focus, I would be a valuable addition to your nursing staff. Some of my notable accomplishments include:

  • Assisted in creating nursing schedules that helped to create a 5% reduction in scheduling waste from my unit
  • Extensive experience in working in the trauma and ICU wards
  • Trained seven new nursing staff in the EMR systems and best practices.
  • Educated patients in post-operative care and medication before discharge

I look forward to meeting with you to discuss how my patient care skills and plan-of-care knowledge would benefit the team at San Diego West Medical. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss a meeting time that would suit your schedule.

Best Regards,

Sarah Pettigrew Nursing Manager | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | 123 Main St., Miami, FL 12345

David Higgins Senior HR Manager Mount Sinai Medical Center (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Higgins,

As a nursing manager, I successfully modified my unit’s budget by cutting 15% of costs without sacrificing patient care. I hope to bring the same level of success to a position at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

I have over 17 years of experience in caring for patients and managing staff. I showcase a broad range of nursing experience, having worked in various wards, including pediatrics, obstetrics, trauma, and ICU. My patient care record and excellent communication skills make me a valuable addition to your medical team.

Some of my past successes include:

  • Training new nurses and staff members in electronic medical record (EMR) and EHR protocols and system updates, resulting in better patient health records
  • Created new scheduling systems that cut 17% scheduling waste from the unit
  • Designing and implementing a new nursing career development program that assisted nurses wanting to further their training, reducing the unit’s turnover by 23%

I’d like to set up a meeting at your convenience to discuss how my work experience and health care knowledge could be of use to Mount Sinai Medical Center. Please feel free to contact me with a time that suits your schedule.

Sarah Pettigrew

To write a great nursing cover letter that separates you from other candidates during the job search, it’s important to tell your unique story within the health care field. Emphasize the positive impact you’ve had on patient outcomes and clinical operations throughout your work history. Feature tangible accomplishments that paint a compelling picture of your experience as a registered nurse. Below, we’ll provide useful tips and insights to help you craft a powerful nursing cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your nursing cover letter , including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Be sure to address the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid using outdated greetings such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as your salutation should be direct and personalized.

2. Introduction

To maximize the impact of your nursing cover letter, lead with a strong opening paragraph to draw the reader in. Convey your years of experience within the medical field and key clinical specializations that align with the role you’re applying for. Feature one of your most notable achievements as a registered nurse to immediately show the hiring manager your proven track record of success.

In the example below, the candidate details how they successfully reduced an operating budget while maintaining high patient care standards. By providing deeper insights into your medical background, you can bolster the strength of your nursing cover letter.

3. Body paragraphs

Continue to illustrate your clinical experience, qualifications, and accomplishments in the body paragraphs of your nursing cover letter. Start by mentioning the hospital’s reputation, culture, and mission statement and why you’re interested in joining their team. Draw attention to aspects of your experience as a registered nurse that help you stand out from other applicants during the hiring process. In the example below, the candidate features their background providing care to elderly patients in residential facilities, which paints a clearer picture for the hiring manager.

4. Nursing skills and qualifications

Although it’s unnecessary to feature a list of skills on your nursing cover letter, incorporate key clinical terms that align with the position you’re targeting. Integrate these terms where they fit naturally to avoid negatively impacting the flow of your sentences. Below, we’ve compiled a range of clinical skills you can highlight on your nursing cover letter:

Key Skills and Qualifications
Activities of daily living (ADLs) Acute care
Case management Clinical operations
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) Electronic Health Records (EHR)
HIPAA Infectious disease protocols
Medication administration Oncology
Patient advocacy Patient centered-care
Patient education Patient management
Pediatric advanced life support (PALS) Telemetry
Treatment planning Vital sign monitoring
Wound care  

5. Closing section

Close out your nurse cover letter with a call to action (CTA) inviting the hiring manager to interview you. Further emphasize how your clinical background can benefit the hospital you’re targeting. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence.

Nursing Cover Letter Tips

1. show you can support and advocate for patients.

Start your letter with a clear example of your success in your field. As the American Nurses Association puts it , nurses are “the glue that holds a patient’s health care journey together.” View your work experience from that perspective. How have you coordinated with doctors and other health care personnel? And how have you guided or supported patients’ progress to new stages of treatment or recovery? Your answers to these questions can help you find a powerful work highlight to open your letter.

2. Explain why you’re drawn to the opportunity

On a separate document or sheet of paper, take 10 minutes to brainstorm why this nursing job or employer interests you. For instance, maybe the role is in pediatrics, a patient age group you’d be eager to work with again. Or perhaps the hospital or clinic has a stated mission or patient care philosophy that resonates with you.

When you’re done brainstorming, review your notes: Do any stand out as important or persuasive? Take another 10 minutes to brainstorm and elaborate on them. Repeat this process until you have two or three concise sentences that speak to the job opening. By adding these to your cover letter, you can show nurse managers you read their job posting and are responding to it directly.

In addition to a master’s degree in nursing, I have over five years of proven experience providing high levels of care to all my patients. Due to my extensive medical knowledge, management experience, and patient-centered focus, I would be a valuable addition to your nursing staff.

3. Highlight your other work strengths

Add a short list of bullet points to cover your success in other key areas of nursing. With each bullet point, show the skill in action by giving an example of how you improved clinical operations or patient outcomes. For instance, you could display leadership by describing how you helped train nurse assistants on new department practices.

  • Created new scheduling systems that cut 17% of scheduling waste from the unit
  • Designing and implementing a new nursing career development program that assisted nurses wanting to further their training, reducing the unit’s turnover by 23%

Nursing Cover Letter Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to start a cover letter -.

With a clear example of your success in the role you’re pursuing. The concept of “show, don’t tell” absolutely applies to your cover letter’s first paragraph. For instance, don’t just tell the hiring manager you’re a “proactive nurse professional.” Demonstrate you’re proactive by citing a time you exceeded expectations or found a new way to support and advocate for patients.

Should I say “My name is…” on a cover letter? -

No. As long as your name appears in the letter’s closing section, you don’t need to state it otherwise.

What traits are useful to highlight in my cover letter? -

Desired qualities in nursing professionals include empathy, precision, dedication, collaboration, and emotional resilience. Consider which of these traits best describe you, then give an example or two of how you’ve shown them in a work setting.

Craft a new cover letter in minutes

Get the attention of hiring managers with a cover letter tailored to every job application.

Jacob Meade

Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

Check Out Related Examples

Related Cover Letter Image

Entry-Level Nurse Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Related Cover Letter Image

Licensed Vocational Nurse Cover Letter Examples and Templates

Related Cover Letter Image

Nurse Resume Examples and Templates

Build a resume to enhance your career.

  • Should Your Cover Letter and Resume Templates Match? Learn More
  • The Nursing Career Ladder: Certified Nursing Assistant to Licensed Practical Nurse to Registered Nurse Learn More
  • What’s the Difference Between a Cover Letter and a Letter of Intent? Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

  • How to Write a Resume Learn More
  • How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
  • Thank You Note Examples Learn More
  • Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

data analyst

IMAGES

  1. Professional Registered Nurse Cover Letter Examples

    cover letter template nursing

  2. Nursing Cover Letter Examples (Tips for 2024)

    cover letter template nursing

  3. 10 Nursing Cover Letter Template

    cover letter template nursing

  4. Nursing Cover Letter Example

    cover letter template nursing

  5. salutation cover letter nursing

    cover letter template nursing

  6. Nursing Cover Letter Template Free

    cover letter template nursing

VIDEO

  1. The Secret Formula For A Great Cover Letter!

  2. Need to write a cover letter? Use my template 😍

  3. How to write a strong Cover Letter #shorts

  4. Nursing student resume pack: Give your student resume a REFRESH! #shorts #nursingstudent #resume

  5. How to write a resume for nursing job: Customize your nursing resume! #shorts #resume #nursing

  6. Nursing student resume with no experience

COMMENTS

  1. How To Write A Nursing Cover Letter [Template And Tips]

    In the following guide, we walk you through writing a strong nursing cover letter, mistakes to avoid, and real-world tips that will keep you focused. Check out our downloadable nursing cover letter template and a sample letter to get started. Once you master the process, you’ll be writing winning cover letters in no time.

  2. Nursing Cover Letter Examples (Tips for 2024) - Resume Genius

    Download our nursing cover letter samples below to start crafting the perfect cover letter. Make sure to also take a look at our nursing resume examples for extra inspiration for your application.

  3. How to Write a Nursing Cover Letter + Examples - Nurse.org

    Highlight your strengths and show the hiring manager that you’re serious about the position. Then start prepping your answers to common interview questions for when you get that call. A complete guide to writing a nursing cover letter with templates and examples.

  4. Nursing Cover Letter: Examples & Template (2024) - ResumeLab

    Discover powerful examples and templates for your nursing cover letter in 2024. Craft a cover letter for nursing jobs that stands out in the healthcare field.

  5. Registered Nurse Cover Letter Example and Template for 2024

    By reviewing cover letter and resume samples, you can prepare yourself for the hiring process for a position as a registered nurse. In this article, we list the steps for creating engaging cover letters for registered nurse roles and provide an example.

  6. Nursing Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

    Learn how to write a nursing cover letter. Get expert tips and downloadable cover letter examples for all levels of experience.