What does a narkossjuksköterska do? – Tasks and work environment
Narkossjuksköterskor, also known as anesthetic nurses, are responsible for administering anesthesia and sedation during surgeries and other medical procedures. Their tasks include preparing patients, monitoring vital functions under anesthesia, and collaborating closely with doctors, surgeons, and other operating room staff. The work requires precision, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle emergency situations. The work environment is often intense and primarily takes place in hospital operating theaters, but also in emergency departments and sometimes within ambulance services.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, the salary for narkossjuksköterskor has shown steady growth. In 2022, the average salary was 45,100 SEK per month, increasing to 47,700 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 49 200 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 9% over the period. This positive trend can be explained by continued high demand for specialized nurses, increased skill requirements, and ongoing investments in healthcare. The salary development also reflects increased responsibility and complexity in the tasks, with competition for experienced narkossjuksköterskor especially noticeable in metropolitan areas and university hospitals.
Narkossjuksköterska salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 47,700 SEK/month (men), 48,500 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 60,000 SEK/month (men), 56,900 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 296 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (49 500 SEK vs 48 400 SEK)
- Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer, with metropolitan areas often offering slightly higher wages.
Many narkossjuksköterskor have opportunities to work internationally and gain experience from different healthcare systems. Skills in anesthesia are highly sought after abroad as well, opening doors for exchange programs and temporary assignments in other countries.
Education and qualifications
To work as a narkossjuksköterska, a licensure as a registered nurse followed by a specialist training in anesthesia is required. The education involves both theoretical studies and extensive practical training in operating rooms. High competence in medical technology and the ability to work under pressure are essential to meet the demands of the profession.
- Registered nurse degree: 3 years at university/higher education
- Specialist training in anesthesia: 1 year (master’s level)
- Licensure: Issued by the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare
- Practical training: Mandatory clinical practice (VFU)
- Prerequisites: Nursing degree and professional experience recommended
- Tips for choosing: Interest in technology, teamwork, and emergency care is an advantage
Common benefits and compensations
Narkossjuksköterskor are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, shift allowances for evenings and weekends, professional development, wellness contributions, and opportunities for further education. In some cases, salary exchange schemes and pension benefits are included, especially with larger public sector employers.
Competition and challenges
The profession is characterized by high demand, but also fierce competition for the most attractive positions at major hospitals and in metropolitan areas. The workload can be demanding, with irregular hours and constant availability required for emergency situations. Continuing professional development is necessary to meet new technical and medical standards. Additionally, collaboration and communication skills are crucial for managing complex care situations and making quick, life-saving decisions.
Tips for aspiring narkossjuksköterska
To succeed as a narkossjuksköterska, a genuine interest in both technology and people is beneficial, as the work involves advanced equipment handling combined with empathy and patient contact. Precision is vital, as small mistakes can have serious consequences during operations. It is also important to be resilient under stress and able to stay calm in emergency situations, which are common in the profession. Good teamwork skills are necessary to work effectively with doctors and other staff. A continuous desire to learn and develop is an advantage, as medical methods and technology evolve rapidly. Flexibility is also valuable, since working hours and tasks can vary daily. Finally, a strong sense of responsibility is essential, as narkossjuksköterskor play a central role in patient safety.
Key facts about Narkossjuksköterska
- Education level: Nursing degree + 1-year specialist training
- Work environment: Hospitals, operating rooms, and emergency departments
- Demand: 375 job openings reported in 2024
- Typical work pattern: Shift work with on-call and irregular hours
- Special skills: Medical technology and emergency care
Career prospects and future outlook
After three to five years in the profession, many narkossjuksköterskor advance to leadership roles such as team leader in the operating department, training coordinator, or instructor in anesthesia. Some choose to further specialize in intensive care or focus on specific areas like pediatric anesthesia or pain management. Others seek opportunities in staffing agencies or international assignments. According to the Swedish Employment Service’s prognosis, detailed assessments for this profession are lacking, but the high demand for anesthetic nurses and the number of available positions (375) indicate good future prospects. Experience and further education increase chances for specialized or more autonomous roles.
Frequently asked questions about Narkossjuksköterska
- What does a Narkossjuksköterska earn?
- The average salary is 49 200 SEK per month, with variations between 47,700 SEK and 60,000 SEK depending on experience, employer, and region.
- How to become a narkossjuksköterska?
- First, a nursing degree (3 years), then a specialist training in anesthesia (1 year), and licensure.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do (49 500 SEK vs 48 400 SEK).
- What is the job market outlook for narkossjuksköterskor?
- There is high demand, with 375 reported job openings in 2024.
- What are common workplaces?
- Operating rooms in hospitals and emergency departments are the most common workplaces.
- What are typical benefits?
- Extra vacation, shift allowances, wellness contributions, and professional development.
- What are the career prospects after a few years?
- Opportunities include leadership roles, specialization, or international assignments.
