TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Staff Nurse Cover Letter Example
Copy this free cover letter template, fill in the blanks and use the instructions on each section to write an effective cover letter.
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 Staff Nurse Cover Letter
Tackle the writing process with confidence with the help of this detailed guide for writing a cover letter for a staff nurse role. The following cover letter sample will show you the key sections you must include and the proper formatting.
In the following writing guide, you'll find more details on how to tailor your letter to your target staff nurse role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
A well-formatted header will helm your staff nurse cover letter, showcasing essential details about the letter's date and recipient. Complete this section by including the date, the hiring manager's name and job title, the company's name and address and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Alex Johnson, Hiring Manager
Mercy Hospital
1234 Healthcare Drive
Chicago, IL 60614
Dear Mr. Johnson,
Weak cover letter header example:
### COVER LETTER HEADER
Date: 32/13/2021
To whome it may concer,
Alycia Johson
982 Nonexistent Street
San Fracisco, CA 94XYZ
Phone: 123-456-7890
Email: alycia.j@somenet.co
Grand Medical Felicity Center
Attn: Martha Wilssonn
123 Healthcare Avenue
SomeCity, CA 98765
PRO TIP
A big cover letter red flag is to greet the letter's recipient with a generic “To Whom It May Concern.“ Instead, personalize the greeting by stating your recipient's name or address a cover letter without a name professionally with “Dear Hiring Manager.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Your staff nurse cover letter must quickly capture the hiring manager's attention. Introduce yourself with your professional title and key qualifications, such as in-demand skills or specialized expertise. For example, see how these two opening paragraph examples compare:
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a registered nurse with five years of experience in patient care, I am eager to apply for the staff nurse position at Mercy Health Services. My dedication to improving patient outcomes is demonstrated through my initiative in reducing patient wait times by 30% by streamlining triage procedures. I am motivated by the opportunity to further enhance healthcare services in a reputable organization like yours.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hi, I'm applying for the staff nurse role at HealthyCare. I've been in nursing and developed many skills. I think I could be a good match. Looking forward to chatting more.
PRO TIP
A great way to begin your cover letter is by sharing that a current or former employee has recommended you. Approach this topic tactfully by copying our examples of referral cover letter opening paragraphs.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph will comprise the bulk of your document and should focus on quantifiable achievements and additional key skills. You can also get more personal with this section and show employers your passion for the job or career goals.
Strong body paragraph example:
With over five years of nursing experience, I excel in patient care and teamwork. At my previous hospital, I implemented a patient charting system and improved patient tracking by 35%, enhancing overall care quality. My skills in crisis management and empathy helped resolve conflicts with patients and families tactfully. By prioritizing effective communication and attention to detail, I contributed to a 20% increase in patient satisfaction scores, proving my commitment to patient-centered care.
Weak body paragraph example:
I'm interested in the staff nurse position mainly because I need employment and feel I can perform the job. I have some exposure to nursing but lack hands-on experience. While I've not proven my skills yet, I'm eager to learn and hope to meet the expectations required for this role.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
In the cover letter's closing paragraph, you seal the deal with potential employers by summarizing your best qualifications and expressing your genuine interest in a job interview. Include a sign-off and your name; you've completed a professional cover letter!
Strong closing paragraph:
My extensive clinical experience in patient care, combined with a compassionate approach to nursing, makes me a strong fit for the Staff Nurse position at Mercy Health Clinic. I am eager to bring my dedication to patient wellbeing to your esteemed facility. Thank you for considering my application; I am looking forward to the possibility of discussing my potential contribution with you in an interview.
Sincerely,
Michael Thompson
Weak closing paragraph:
I believe I could do reasonably well as a staff nurse at your hospital, although I know others might be more qualified. I'm enthusiastic to learn and grow. If you think I might fit in, I would be grateful for an opportunity. Thanks for maybe considering my application.
Sincerely,
Emily Roberts
Follow these steps, and you'll be able to create a professional staff nurse cover letter in no time. If you need to write multiple letters for different job applications, our Cover Letter Builder is your best bet. With just your target job title, we can generate as many custom cover letters as you need.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Staff Nurse
The cover letter is a great place to include more required skills that show you're the ideal candidate for the staff nurse role you want. Share an equal mix of hard skills and soft skills to demonstrate you're a well-rounded candidate.
- Clinical Knowledge
- Patient Care
- Medication Administration
- IV Management
- Wound Care
- Vital Sign Monitoring
- Electronic Health Records
- Infection Control
- Crisis Intervention
- Interpersonal Communication
- Empathy
- Team Collaboration
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.
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