TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Nurse Cover Letter Example
Use this free template to write a cover letter for any nurse role. Simply follow the instructions and fill in the blanks.
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
If you want to make it more presentable, check out our professional cover letter templates, which include more than a dozen customizable job-appropriate designs.
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How to Write a Nurse Cover Letter
The following cover letter example will help you identify the key sections in a cover letter and what to include in each one.
Now that you've got an idea of the cover letter basics let's dive into the details of optimizing your letter to land a specific role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
A letter of application is a formal business letter. It should convey professionalism and have an appropriately formatted cover letter header with essential information about the employer and you.
Strong cover letter header example:
May 09, 2025
Christine Johnson, Hiring Manager
Seattle Grace Hospital
1234 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Weak cover letter header example:
April 09, 2025
To whomever,
Natalie Johnsen
Email: nataliejonson@email.comm
Phone: (555) 234-7890
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/natjohns1337
Allina Healtcare
1234 Health St,
New York, NY 10001
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 nurse position.
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a registered nurse with five years of experience in acute care settings, I am excited to apply for the Nurse position at Mercy Hospital. My dedication to patient-centered care and my expertise in emergency response have prepared me for this role. Recently, I improved patient satisfaction scores by 30% through enhanced communication strategies and care coordination.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there, just dropping in to show my interest in the nursing role at Riverbank Health. I have some experience here and there, so I think I’d fit right in with you guys.
PRO TIP
If a current employee has referred you for this position, mention this in the opening paragraph. Our referral cover letter openings article shows you how to do this.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should include unique achievements you didn't already mention on your resume. There's so much you can do with this section: share your long-term career goals, share anecdotes demonstrating your work ethic or commitment to the job, or narrate the story of your career growth so far.
Strong body paragraph example:
In my role as a registered nurse, I successfully improved patient outcomes by 20% through personalized care plans and rigorous monitoring. My advanced assessment and communication skills facilitated seamless collaboration among interdisciplinary teams, resulting in a 15% reduction in hospital readmissions. Confronting diverse health challenges daily honed my adaptability and problem-solving prowess, vital traits I am eager to contribute to your healthcare team for continued excellence.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am applying for the nurse position because I need a new job. I'm hoping this job suits me. I've completed some nursing courses but have little experience. I'm unsure about handling challenging cases but willing to try. I might not be the best fit yet but willing to learn if given the chance.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
Seal the deal with potential employers by finalizing your cover letter with a compelling closing paragraph. Summarize your letter's key points and state your interest in scheduling a future interview.
Strong closing paragraph:
My extensive clinical experience and compassionate approach to patient care make me an ideal candidate for the nursing position at Mercy Hospital. I am eager to bring my dedication to delivering exceptional healthcare to your esteemed team. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute further in an interview.
Sincerely,
Emily Thompson
Weak closing paragraph:
I'm fairly sure I'd make a decent nurse for your team because I care about helping people and stuff like that. I'm excited to maybe hear back if you think I'd be a fit. Thanks for reading my application, I truly appreciate it.
Best regards,
Emily Green
See? Writing a cover letter for your 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.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Nurse
Your nurse cover letter is great for sharing more relevant skills. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for a nurse. Ensure you mention both soft skills and hard skills that show you're a well-rounded candidate.
- Patient Assessment
- Clinical Judgement
- Medication Administration
- IV Therapy
- EMR Proficiency
- Patient Education
- Wound Care
- BLS Certification
- Infection Control
- Cultural Competency
- Team Collaboration
- EMTALA Knowledge
Find more personalized content suggestions like these in our Cover Letter Builder. When you enter your job title and pick a unique writing style, the Builder will generate a custom cover letter in minutes!
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