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Registered Nurse Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

Registered Nurse Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, I recently completed a shift in a fast paced ward where I helped coordinate care for patients with complex needs. In that environment I found that clear documentation and timely communication made the biggest difference to patient safety. For instance, I used standardised nursing notes and handover sheets to track changes in a patient’s condition over 24 hours, which reduced delays in therapy by about a quarter. I align with teams that value evidence based practice, thorough assessment and good patient education. I routinely perform clinical assessments, contribute to care planning, administer medications with careful monitoring, and document responses promptly. I’ve collaborated with doctors, allied health and families to ensure plans stay focused on outcomes and patient preferences. One recent case stands out. A patient admitted post surgery required careful fluid balance and pain management, with frequent updates to the family. I coordinated care with junior staff and the ward pharmacist, adjusted the plan as vitals shifted, and the patient moved from urgent to stable within 48 hours. The family reported clearer explanations and greater confidence in the plan. I’m keen to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]. I’m available for an in person or virtual chat and can provide references from [Previous Company] upon request. Kind regards, [Your Name]

Stand out and land Registered Nurse interviews with a customised cover letter

Our AI analyses your experience against the job requirements to create a targeted cover letter that gets noticed.

ATS-optimised

Passes applicant screening systems

AI-powered

Matches your experience to job requirements

Complete both steps above to generate your cover letter

What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This Registered Nurse Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for Registered Nurse Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Clinical AssessmentCare PlanningCare CoordinationMedication AdministrationMonitoring Patient ResponsesHealth PromotionPatient and Family EducationInterprofessional CollaborationEvidence-based PracticeDocumentation and Record KeepingCommunication with PatientsClinical Judgement

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Assessing Nursing Care for Patients
  • Planning Nursing Care for Patients
  • Implementing Nursing Care
  • Evaluating Nursing Care Against Standards
  • Consulting with Other Health Professionals
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

Registered Nurse Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page