Geriatric nurse

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

A geriatric nurse works with the care and nursing of elderly patients, often with complex medical needs. Tasks include medication management, rehabilitation, care planning, and coordination with other healthcare professionals. The role requires the ability to handle both acute and long-term interventions, as well as supporting patients and relatives in difficult life situations. The work environment can vary from hospitals and nursing homes to home healthcare, where the pace is often high and workload significant but meaningful.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for geriatric nurses has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, rising to 42 700 during 2023 and further to 44 000 in 2024. This increase represents a total salary change of about 7% over the period. The trend reflects an increased demand for specialist competence in geriatrics, partly driven by an aging population and greater need for qualified care. At the same time, the balance of supply and demand in the labor market has contributed to a gradual rise in salary levels, with employers competing for experienced and educated nurses with specialist skills.

Geriatric nurse salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 44 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 42,600 SEK/month (female, public sector, research education)
• Highest salary: 54,400 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 265 SEK/hour (average, hourly employee)
• Women earn: 43 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 45 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a geriatric nurse begins with a basic education as a licensed nurse, followed by a specialist training in geriatrics. In addition to formal education, practical experience in elderly care and a strong interest in working with older persons are often required. Further training and certifications can enhance employment opportunities and career development within the profession.

• Licensed nurse: Basic training, 3 years (bachelor's degree)
• Specialist nurse program: Geriatrics specialization, 1 year (master's level)
• Internship: Mandatory practical periods during training
• Certifications: Opportunities for further education and certificates in geriatric care
• Prerequisites: Approved nursing degree and license

Common benefits and compensations

Geriatric nurses are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and extra vacation days. Overtime pay is common for evening and weekend work, along with opportunities for further training. Some employers may also offer flexible working hours and compensation for work clothes or travel expenses.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a geriatric nurse is currently moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation nationwide. Challenges in the profession mainly concern the increasing workload as the population ages and care needs grow. The work environment can sometimes be under pressure, and high demands are placed on both medical competence and psychosocial skills. At the same time, the work is very rewarding for those who enjoy close contact with elderly patients and interdisciplinary teamwork.

Tips for those who want to become a geriatric nurse

To succeed as a geriatric nurse, it is good to combine a genuine interest in geriatrics with an empathetic attitude towards patients. Developing good communication skills facilitates collaboration with colleagues and relatives, which is central to the profession. It is also important to be resilient and flexible, as the work environment can be both varied and demanding. Keeping up to date with new research and treatments in geriatrics provides confidence in the role and enhances professional competence. Precision and responsibility are also crucial, especially regarding medication management and care planning. Lastly, a solution-oriented approach helps handle unforeseen situations and creates security for patients.

Key facts about Geriatric Nurse

• Education level: Bachelor's + master's in geriatrics
• Work environment: Hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare
• Demand: Moderate today, increasing within 5 years
• Common work pattern: Shift and scheduled work
• Number of job openings: 375 positions nationwide (2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a geriatric nurse can advance to roles such as care developer, team leader, or take responsibility for supervising new colleagues and students. Some choose to further their education to become a care unit manager or work as a consultant in elderly care. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are currently moderate, but the outlook indicates increased demand over the next five years. This development is mainly driven by demographic changes with more elderly people and greater need for specialized geriatric care skills.

Frequently asked questions about Geriatric Nurse

• What does a geriatric nurse earn?
  - A geriatric nurse has an average salary of 44 000 SEK per month.
• How to become a geriatric nurse?
  - First, you need a license as a registered nurse, followed by a specialist training in geriatrics.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - Common workplaces include hospitals, nursing homes, and municipal home healthcare.
• What does the future look like for geriatric nurses?
  - Demand is expected to increase over the next five years according to the Employment Service.
• What education is required?
  - A bachelor's degree in nursing and a master's program in geriatrics are required.
• How many job openings are there?
  - There are approximately 375 available jobs nationwide.