What does a surgical nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
A surgical nurse works closely with surgeons and other healthcare staff, primarily in operating rooms and post-operative wards. They are responsible for preparing patients for surgical procedures, assisting during operations, and monitoring the patient's condition before, during, and after the procedure. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, high precision, and collaboration requirements, where each day can present new challenges and quick decisions. Handling advanced medical equipment and the ability to adapt rapidly to changing situations are often required.
Salary development over time
The salary of a surgical nurse has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK, which increased to 42 900 in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has continued upward to 43 900, corresponding to an increase of about 7% over the three-year period. The development reflects the continued high demand for specialized nurses in surgery, where skills and experience are rewarded. The market is also influenced by regional differences and increased requirements for further education, while employers try to retain experienced staff with competitive salaries.
Surgical nurse salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
- Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 264 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
- Women earn: 43 700 SEK/month (96 % of men's salary)
- Men earn: 45 400 SEK/month
Education and qualifications
To work as a surgical nurse, a license as a registered nurse is required, followed by specialized training in surgical care. The education involves both theoretical and practical components, where clinical experience and continuing education are vital parts of skill development. Additional courses and certifications are often sought by employers to meet the rapid technological development in surgery.
- Licensed nurse: Basic education, 3 years at university/higher education
- Specialist nurse degree: Focus on surgical care, 1 year
- Practical training: Mandatory internships during education
- Certifications: Examples include BLS, medical technical training
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for higher education and specific knowledge in science subjects
Many surgical nurses develop highly specialized skills within specific surgical areas, such as orthopedics, thoracic, or neurosurgery. This specialization allows for a wide variety of tasks and offers opportunities for deepening expertise and career changes within the profession.
Common benefits and compensations
Surgical nurses are often offered benefits such as evening and weekend supplements, on-call pay, wellness allowances, professional development, and paid further training. Many employers also provide bike allowances, subsidized lunches, and flexible working hours depending on operational needs.
Competition and challenges
The job market for surgical nurses is characterized by high demand but also paradoxical recruitment difficulties. Despite low unemployment and many available positions, many leave the profession due to workload and inconvenient hours. There is particular competition for experienced specialists, which means recent graduates may face both opportunities and high demands. The technological development in surgery also requires ongoing training and flexibility.
Tips for those who want to become a surgical nurse
To succeed as a surgical nurse, it is good to combine resilience under stress with a genuine interest in surgery and technology. Commitment to patient well-being is essential, as is the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Precision and good organizational skills facilitate work in the operating room, where teamwork and communication skills are also highly valued. Investing in further education and specialized courses provides a competitive edge and increases opportunities for specialization. Being receptive to new technology and innovations is important to stay at the forefront of the profession.
Key facts about Surgical Nurse
- Education level: Specialist nurse degree (4 years total)
- Work environment: Operating rooms and post-operative wards
- Demand: Very high, 375 available jobs nationally
- Salary level: Above the average for basic registered nurses
- Specialization: Opportunities for deep expertise within various surgical areas
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years in the profession, a surgical nurse can choose to further specialize, for example in thoracic surgery, neurosurgery, or orthopedics. Many advance to leadership roles such as operating coordinator, trainer, or department manager. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates that the demand for basic registered nurses, including surgical nurses, is expected to remain unchanged over five years, but job opportunities are still very good nationally. Technological advances and increased requirements for specialist knowledge provide good career opportunities through ongoing training and experience.
Frequently asked questions about Surgical Nurse
- What is the average salary for a surgical nurse?
- The average salary for a surgical nurse is 43 900 SEK/month.
- How do salary differences between men and women look?
- Men earn an average of 45 400 SEK/month and women 43 700 SEK/month, which means women earn 96% of what men do.
- What is the highest salary for a surgical nurse?
- The highest salary is 77,200 SEK/month, belonging to a man in the public sector with research qualifications.
- What education is required to become a surgical nurse?
- Licensed nurse and specialist training in surgical care (a total of 4 years).
- What is the job market like?
- Opportunities are assessed as very good nationally, with 375 available jobs in the profession.
- What benefits are often offered?
- Common benefits include evening and weekend supplements, on-call pay, wellness allowances, and paid further training.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Yes, regional differences occur and can influence both salary and working conditions depending on the location.
