Surgical nurse

What does an operating room nurse do? – Tasks and work environment

An operating room nurse is responsible for planning, executing, and following up on patient care before, during, and after surgeries. The role involves ensuring the operating room is sterile, that the correct instruments are available, and that the patient receives optimal care throughout the surgical procedure. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, technical equipment, and close collaboration with surgeons, anesthetic nurses, and other operating staff. Operating room nurses primarily work in hospital surgical units but can also be found in private clinics or specialist practices.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for operating room nurses have increased gradually. In 2022, the average salary was 45,500 SEK, followed by an increase to 48 200 SEK in 2023, and further to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This development represents a total increase of approximately 9.7% over the period, which is slightly higher than the average salary increase across the healthcare sector overall. Factors driving salary growth include increased demand for operating room nurses, a skills shortage, and a greater focus on retaining and recruiting specialized staff. The clear trend indicates continued upward pressure on the profession’s salaries, especially as surgical volumes and technological complexity increase within Swedish healthcare.

Operating room nurse salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 56,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 300 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn as much as men in the profession (men: 50 000 SEK, women: 49 900 SEK)
• Regional differences: Regional salary differences exist, but exact values are not specified

Education and qualifications

To work as an operating room nurse, a license as a registered nurse is required, followed by a one-year specialist training in surgical nursing. The educational pathway includes theoretical studies, practical components, and clinical training in an operating room setting. In addition to formal education, good teamwork skills and stress resilience are important qualities for the profession.

• Nursing degree: 3 years at university/higher education
• Specialist nursing training in surgical nursing: 1 year (full-time)
• License: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
• Practical training: Included in the program
• Eligibility requirements: Basic eligibility for university studies and passing grades in relevant subjects

Common benefits and compensations

Operating room nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, evening and weekend shift allowances, wellness grants, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. In some cases, favorable pension solutions and flexible working hours are also available, especially in the private sector.

Competition and challenges

The profession of operating room nurse is characterized by a paradoxical recruitment situation with high demand but also difficulties filling vacant positions. Many regions report shortages of specialized personnel, which can lead to high workload and stressful working conditions. At the same time, the profession offers significant opportunities for development and specialization, but also requires continuous skills upgrading in line with new medical technologies. Those entering the profession should be prepared for shift work and sometimes long shifts during emergency situations. Despite these challenges, the job market remains very strong, and employment opportunities are considered excellent both in the short and long term.

Tips for aspiring operating room nurses

To succeed as an operating room nurse, it is good to combine an interest in technology with a strong sense of responsibility. Precision is crucial, especially when handling instruments and following sterilization routines. Good teamwork skills facilitate communication with the team in the operating room, while stress resilience provides confidence in acute and unexpected situations. Flexibility and adaptability are important as workdays can vary greatly. Aim to gain practical experience early through internships in surgical environments and take advantage of opportunities for further education and certifications. Engagement and a genuine patient focus also provide extra strength in the role, especially when meeting vulnerable patients.

Key facts about Operating Room Nurse

• Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: Licensed nurse + 1 year specialist training
• Job market: 375 available jobs, very good future prospects
• Gender differences: Equal salaries between women and men
• Work environment: Hospitals, surgical units, high pace, team collaboration

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as an operating room nurse, opportunities open up for roles such as team leader, training coordinator, or specialist in particular surgical fields. Some choose to advance to managerial positions within surgical departments or work in research and development of new techniques. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, demand for operating room nurses is expected to increase further over the next five years, with a continued strong job market and good opportunities for career development. The recruitment situation remains challenging, indicating that skilled operating room nurses will be highly sought after in the future as well.

Frequently asked questions about Operating Room Nurse

• What does an operating room nurse earn?
  - An operating room nurse has an average salary of 49 900 SEK per month.
• How to become an operating room nurse?
  - First, a nursing degree and license are required, followed by a one-year specialist training in surgical nursing.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - In this profession, salaries are equal; men earn 50 000 SEK and women 49 900 SEK on average.
• What work environments do operating room nurses work in?
  - Most work in hospital surgical departments, but private clinics and specialist practices are also common.
• What is the job market like for operating room nurses?
  - The job market is very good, with 375 available jobs within the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for an operating room nurse?
  - The highest salary is 56,000 SEK and the lowest 47,600 SEK per month, depending on employment type and education.