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Registered Nurse Cover Letter Examples

Looking for registered nurse cover letter examples? You've reached the right place. Take advantage of our professional cover letter templates and writing guide to ace your job search.

LiveCareer Staff Writer
Written by LiveCareer Staff Writer
Last Updated: May 9, 2025

Free Registered Nurse Cover Letter Example

We've created this free cover letter template with instructions on how to write each paragraph. Fill in the rest of the blanks to ensure proper letter formatting.

Your name

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Today’s Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

[Company Name]

[OPTIONAL: Department Name]

[Company Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],

This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.

This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.

The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.

The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.

Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.

Sincerely,

— Your Full Name

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How to Write a Registered Nurse Cover Letter

The easiest way to write a cover letter is to take it section by section. Every professional cover letter should include the sections highlighted in the cover letter sample.

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Now that you know what a cover letter should look like, let's go into further detail on how to tailor your cover letter to your registered nurse role.

STEP 1

Format your cover letter’s header correctly

Every registered nurse cover letter should include a header that follows the standard business letter format. Include the date, the recipient's name and info and a formal greeting.

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Strong cover letter header example:

Elizabeth Taylor
Seattle, WA 98101
example@example.com
(555) 555-5555
April 09, 2025
Michael Johnson, Hiring Manager
Evergreen Health Services
1234 Health Drive
Seattle, WA 98105
Dear Mr. Johnson,

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Weak cover letter header example:

October 32, 2023
To who it may consern,
Debrah MacFarlane
Fluttering Angels Hospital
2375 Brightway Street
New Chicago, CAZ 90210
Ryan Phillps
Registered Nurz
ryan.p@email.biz
155 Forest Lane
Sunnyville, NY 56744

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PRO TIP

Using the recipient's name in the greeting demonstrates attention to detail and personalizes your letter. Try to avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.“ For more options, explore our guide on addressing a cover letter when you don't know the recipient's name.

STEP 2

Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph

Introduce yourself to employers in the first paragraph of your cover letter by sharing characteristics like your current profession, key skills or any other relevant qualification. Aim to sound authentic when stating your interest in the registered nurse position.

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Strong opening paragraph example:

As a registered nurse with five years of experience in acute care, I am eager to apply for the registered nurse position at Mercy Health System. My expertise in patient management and critical care has been honed through my background, including a key achievement where I reduced hospital readmission rates by 15% by developing a comprehensive post-discharge follow-up program.

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Weak opening paragraph example:

Hey, I'm looking to snag the registered nurse gig at a place like HealthCore. Nursing's my jam, and I've soaked up a ton. Can't wait to see what happens next.

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PRO TIP

It's a huge bonus to have a recommendation for the role from a current employee. Our referral cover letter opening paragraph article provides different examples of approaching this topic.

STEP 3

Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph

Your cover letter's body paragraph should be chock-full of relevant achievements and skills. However, avoid repeating what you said in your resume. You can also take this opportunity to show recruiters you're a great cultural fit in the company by sharing more details about who you are as a person.

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Strong body paragraph example:

As a dedicated registered nurse with over five years of experience, I've successfully managed patient caseloads of up to 30 individuals per shift, ensuring timely and effective care. My proficiency in critical thinking and strong communication skills facilitated a 15% reduction in medication errors at my current position, enhancing overall patient safety and satisfaction. By excelling in patient education, I contributed to a 20% decrease in readmission rates, demonstrating my commitment to comprehensive patient care.

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Weak body paragraph example:

I am seeking a registered nurse position purely because I need a job. Although I haven't had a lot of hands-on experience, I went to nursing school where I learned some theory that could be useful. I’m not confident about my skills but I might be able to learn on the spot while working.

STEP 4

Finish by encouraging next steps

Finally, include a closing paragraph summarizing your best professional attributes and a call to action for a future interview. Sign your letter with an appropriate sign-off phrase and your name.

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Strong closing paragraph:

My comprehensive clinical skills, coupled with a compassionate approach to patient care, make me an ideal fit for the registered nurse position at City Health Hospital. I am eager to bring my dedication and expertise to your esteemed team and discuss how I can contribute effectively in an interview. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity.
Sincerely,
Emily Carter

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Weak closing paragraph:

I am very interested in the registered nurse position. I feel I could meet your needs, as I try to be a caring person. If you think I might be a good fit, I would appreciate hearing back. I hope you consider my application. Thank you for your time and attention.
Best regards,
Lisa Carter

See? Writing a cover letter for your registered nurse role can be easy with the right help. Check out our Cover Letter Builder for an even faster and more efficient way to create a custom cover letter tailored to your target job.

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Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Registered Nurse

You should include a few relevant skills in your registered nurse cover letter to ensure you meet all the job requirements. These are some of the most relevant skills for a registered nurse; ensure you mix soft skills and hard skills that prove you're technically savvy and an excellent fit for the team.

  1. Patient Assessment
  2. Clinical Documentation
  3. Medication Administration
  4. Patient Education
  5. IV Therapy
  6. Disease Management
  1. Cultural Competency
  2. Basic Life Support
  3. Wound Care
  4. Telemetry
  5. Infection Control
  6. Compassionate Care

If you want to avoid bad writer's block, check out our Cover Letter Builder. Instead of facing a blank page for hours, our Builder will suggest dozens of content ideas for your letter based on your target job title.

Related Resources

About the Author

LiveCareer Staff Writer

LiveCareer Staff Writer

LiveCareer’s staff writers are career advice experts and Certified Professional Resume Writers (CPRW), accredited by the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches. Our team is dedicated to transforming work lives. Our diverse experts bring valuable insights to help you stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. No matter your career stage, LiveCareer’s contributors are here to help you advance your career and secure the job you want.

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