What does an emergency nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
An emergency nurse provides advanced care and medical treatment to patients in acute and often life-threatening conditions. The profession involves quickly assessing and prioritizing care measures, collaborating closely with doctors and other healthcare staff, and managing stressful and unpredictable situations. The work is mainly carried out in emergency departments, intensive care units, or within ambulance services, where the pace is high and decisions often need to be made quickly. The work environment is characterized by shift work, rapid patient flows, and a constant demand for medical competence and empathy.
Salary development over time
The salary for emergency nurses has shown variations over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,600 SEK, which increased significantly to 48 100 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has been adjusted to 47 200 SEK, representing a slight decrease compared to the previous year but a total increase of approximately 8.3% since 2022. This development reflects both the high demand for specialist competence in emergency care and the increased need for experienced nurses as healthcare demands grow. Salary variations may also depend on changes in collective bargaining and regional economic conditions.
Emergency nurse salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 47 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 44,200 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Highest salary: 56,300 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, research education)
- Highest salary (male): 53,300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary (male): 45,700 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 284 SEK
- Gender pay gap: Women earn 96% of what men do (46 300 SEK vs 48 000 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary variations occur but detailed statistics are lacking
Education and qualifications
To work as an emergency nurse, a license as a registered nurse plus further education in emergency care, often through a specialist training program, are required. The profession demands high levels of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, as well as the ability to handle complex and stressful situations. Many employers also require experience from similar environments or internships in emergency care.
- Basic education: Nursing degree (3 years, university/higher education)
- Further education: Specialist nursing training in emergency care (1 year)
- Practical training: Clinical internships included in both basic and specialist training
- Certificates/courses: Often required to have courses in advanced CPR and trauma care
- Prerequisites: Eligibility for university studies and science subjects at high school level
Emergency nurses often work in interdisciplinary teams where collaboration and communication are crucial. The ability to switch between independent decision-making and quickly coordinating efforts with other professionals is one of the most valued qualities in the profession.
Common benefits and compensations
Emergency nurses are often offered benefits such as shift premiums for evening and weekend work, extra compensation for night shifts, and opportunities for skill development and internal training. Many employers also provide wellness allowances, pension contributions, and flexible working hours to facilitate recovery between shifts.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an emergency nurse is generally low, as the demand for this expertise is very high nationwide. However, the profession faces significant challenges, including high workload, emotional stress, and difficulties balancing work and private life due to shift work. The work environment can be pressurized, especially during periods of high patient volume or major accidents and disasters. Continuous further education is also required to stay updated on new treatment methods and medical technology.
Tips for those who want to become an emergency nurse
To succeed as an emergency nurse, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with quick decision-making, especially in acute situations where every second counts. Being resilient under stress and having good self-leadership helps manage tough working conditions and unforeseen events. Strong teamwork and clear communication are key to success. Empathy and attentiveness assist in caring for patients and relatives in crises, while a structured approach makes it easier to prioritize correctly under pressure. Openness to ongoing education and taking initiative for skill development are also important factors for success.
Key facts about Emergency Nurses
- Educational level: Licensed nurse + specialist training (4 years)
- Work environment: Emergency departments, ambulance, intensive care, shift work
- Demand: Very high, 375 available jobs in the profession
- Salary range: 44,200–56,300 SEK/month
- Special skills: Advanced CPR, trauma care
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an emergency nurse, there are opportunities to develop in several areas, such as becoming a chief nurse, trainer, or progressing to other specialist roles within intensive care and ambulance services. Some choose to combine clinical work with research or teaching at universities and colleges. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's occupational forecasts, no exact assessment is made for emergency nurses due to limited data, but the demand within the profession remains very high. The job market is expected to be stable with good employment opportunities, especially for those with specialist competence and experience in emergency care.
Frequently asked questions about Emergency Nurses
- What does an emergency nurse earn?
- An emergency nurse has an average salary of 47 200 SEK per month.
- How has the salary development looked for emergency nurses?
- The salary increased from 43,600 SEK in 2022 to 48 100 SEK in 2023, and in 2024 it is 47 200 SEK.
- What education is required to become an emergency nurse?
- A basic nursing degree plus one year of specialist training in emergency care is required.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
- What does the job market look like for emergency nurses?
- The demand is very high with 375 job openings in the profession.
- In which work environments do emergency nurses work?
- They mainly work in emergency departments, ambulance services, and intensive care units.
- What is the highest salary for an emergency nurse?
- The highest salary is 56,300 SEK per month for a woman with research education in the private sector.
