How do I write a cover letter for a Registered Nurse position?

To write a Registered Nurse cover letter: 1) Research the company and role, 2) Open with a strong hook about your relevant experience, 3) Connect your skills to the job requirements, 4) Quantify your achievements, and 5) End with a clear call to action requesting an interview.

What should I include in a Registered Nurse cover letter?

Your Registered Nurse cover letter should include: your contact information, the hiring manager's name (if known), a compelling opening paragraph, 2-3 paragraphs highlighting relevant experience and achievements, specific examples of skills like Patient Care and Clinical Skills, and a strong closing with a call to action.

How long should a Registered Nurse cover letter be?

A Registered Nurse cover letter should be one page or less, typically 3-4 paragraphs (250-400 words). Keep it concise and focused on your most relevant qualifications for the specific role.

Should I customize my cover letter for each Registered Nurse application?

Yes, always customize your cover letter for each application. Reference the specific company name, mention relevant job requirements, and explain why you're interested in that particular Registered Nurse role. Generic cover letters are easily spotted and often rejected.

How do I address a Registered Nurse cover letter if I don't know the hiring manager's name?

If you don't know the hiring manager's name, try to find it on LinkedIn or the company website. If unsuccessful, use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Registered Nurse Hiring Team" instead of "To Whom It May Concern." Personalized salutations show initiative and attention to detail.

What's the best way to open a Registered Nurse cover letter?

Start with a hook that grabs attention: mention a specific achievement, express genuine enthusiasm for the company, or highlight a unique qualification. Avoid generic openings like "I am writing to apply for..." Instead, try "As a Registered Nurse who has [specific achievement], I was excited to see..."

How do I close a Registered Nurse cover letter effectively?

End with a strong call to action: express enthusiasm for the role, summarize your key value proposition, and request an interview. For example: "I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my Patient Care expertise can contribute to [Company Name]. I look forward to speaking with you."

Should I mention salary expectations in my Registered Nurse cover letter?

Only mention salary if the job posting specifically requests it. If required, provide a range based on your research of Registered Nurse salaries in your area. Otherwise, save salary discussions for the interview stage after you've demonstrated your value.

What format should I use for a Registered Nurse cover letter?

Use a professional business letter format: your contact info at top, date, employer's info, salutation, 3-4 paragraphs, closing, and signature. Use the same font and header style as your resume for a cohesive application package. Save as PDF to preserve formatting.

How do I explain employment gaps in a Registered Nurse cover letter?

Briefly address gaps by focusing on what you did during that time: skills gained, courses taken, freelance work, or volunteer experience relevant to the Registered Nurse role. Keep the explanation positive and brief—1-2 sentences maximum—then pivot back to your qualifications.

Healthcare

Registered Nurse Cover Letter Example

Learn how to write a compelling Registered Nurse cover letter with our professional example, templates, and expert tips.

Last updated: January 2026Expert reviewed|Templates reviewed by HR professionals

Sample Cover Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Registered Nurse position at [Company Name]. With my background in Patient Care and Clinical Skills, I am confident I can make a meaningful contribution to your team.

In my current role, I have successfully [specific achievement related to the role]. This experience has strengthened my abilities in Documentation, Critical Thinking, which I understand are key requirements for this position.

What excites me most about [Company Name] is [specific reason related to company mission/values/products]. I am eager to bring my expertise in Patient Care to help achieve your goals.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with your needs. Thank you for considering my application.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

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Writing Tips

Open with a strong hook

Start your Registered Nurse cover letter with an attention-grabbing statement about your relevant experience or passion for the role.

Connect your experience to the job

Highlight specific achievements and skills that directly relate to the Registered Nurse position requirements.

Show your knowledge of the company

Research the company and mention specific reasons why you want to work there and how you can contribute.

Use concrete numbers and results

Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

End with a clear call to action

Close your cover letter by expressing enthusiasm and requesting an interview opportunity.

Mistakes to Avoid

Using a generic template

Customize each cover letter for the specific company and role.

Repeating your resume

Use the cover letter to tell your story and expand on key achievements.

Making it too long

Keep your cover letter to one page with 3-4 focused paragraphs.

Focusing only on yourself

Balance what you want with what you can offer the employer.

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