Veterinary nurse

What does a veterinary nurse do? – Tasks and work environment

A veterinary nurse works with care and medical treatment of animals, often at animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, or research institutions. The role involves assisting veterinarians during examinations, surgeries, and treatments, as well as independently performing certain medical procedures. Tasks include sample collection, medication administration, wound care, and monitoring animals’ health status. Veterinary nurses are also responsible for informing and supporting pet owners, documenting care, and ensuring hygiene routines and safety regulations are followed. The work environment is often fast-paced, physically demanding, and involves close contact with both animals and humans, requiring technical skills as well as empathetic communication.

Salary development over time

The salary for veterinary nurses has shown a steady and positive development in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,200 SEK, increasing in 2023 to 31 800 and then reaching 33 400 in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 10.6% over three years, which is slightly above the average wage growth on the labor market. The trend reflects a continued high demand for qualified staff in animal care, where a shortage of trained veterinary nurses drives up wages. The market is also influenced by many in the profession working part-time, which can create recruitment difficulties and further push wages higher.

Veterinary nurse salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,300 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage: 201 SEK/hour (average for hourly workers)
• Gender differences: Men earn 34 500 SEK/month, women 33 300 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, but the average is around 33 400 SEK/month nationally.

Education and qualifications

To work as a veterinary nurse, a vocational degree from a college or university is required, typically a three-year program at higher education level. The education includes both theoretical and practical components in animal healthcare, pharmacology, and medical technology. Internships and supervised clinical training are mandatory parts of the program, and licensure is issued after approved graduation. Further education and specialization are possible in areas such as anesthesia or laboratory medicine.

• Formal degree: Veterinary nurse degree (3 years, college/university)
• Licensing: Issued by the Swedish Board of Agriculture after graduation
• Practical training: Clinical internship/trainee period included in the education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for higher education, plus specific science courses
• Further training: Opportunities for specialization in areas like anesthesia or laboratory medicine

Common benefits and compensations

Veterinary nurses are often offered benefits such as occupational pension plans, wellness allowances, and subsidized work clothing. Opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences are common, as well as compensation for unsociable hours and on-call shifts. Some employers also offer staff discounts on pet products or veterinary services.

Challenges and competition

The market for veterinary nurses is characterized by high demand and certain recruitment difficulties, especially since many choose to work part-time. This creates a paradoxical situation where there are vacant positions while the supply of full-time workers is limited. Competition for permanent positions at attractive workplaces can be fierce, especially in urban areas where there are more animal hospitals. The profession also involves challenges such as irregular working hours, high workload, and continuous professional development. The physical and emotional strain is significant, requiring good health and mental resilience.

Tips for aspiring veterinary nurses

To succeed as a veterinary nurse, it’s good to combine empathy with a structured approach and strong stress tolerance. Curiosity about medical questions facilitates learning during education and in the profession. Being communicative and attentive helps in teamwork and contact with pet owners. Practical problem-solving skills are valuable when unexpected situations arise, and an interest in continuous development makes it easier to adopt new methods and techniques. Precision is crucial to minimize risks in medication and documentation, while the ability to handle strong emotions helps in managing challenging situations with animals and people.

Key facts about Veterinary Nurses

• Education level: Veterinary nurse degree (3 years, university/college)
• Work environment: Clinics, animal hospitals, and research institutions
• Work form: Often shift work and on-call duties
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially for full-time positions
• Job listings: Approximately 375 advertised positions nationwide (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as team leader or head nurse at larger animal hospitals. Specializations in areas like anesthesia, imaging diagnostics, or laboratory medicine are also common, potentially leading to higher wages and increased responsibilities. Some choose to further their education to become veterinarians or work as trainers in animal care. The Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts that the labor market will continue to offer good opportunities for veterinary nurses, with demand remaining stable over the next five years. Recruitment difficulties persist due to part-time work in the profession, but the number of available jobs indicates a positive outlook.

Frequently asked questions about Veterinary Nurses

• What does a veterinary nurse earn?
  - A veterinary nurse has an average salary of 33 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• Is a license required to work as a veterinary nurse?
  - Yes, a license issued by the Swedish Board of Agriculture is required to work as a veterinary nurse in Sweden.
• How long is the education to become a veterinary nurse?
  - The education lasts three years at a university or college and leads to a veterinary nurse degree.
• Are there regional salary differences for veterinary nurses?
  - Yes, salary levels can vary between regions and employers, but the national average is 33 400 SEK/month.
• What does the future look like for veterinary nurses?
  - The job market is expected to offer great opportunities, with demand remaining stable over the next five years.
• What personal qualities are important for a veterinary nurse?
  - Empathy, stress tolerance, accuracy, and good teamwork skills are important qualities in the profession.