What does an allergy nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
Nurses specializing in allergies work on diagnosing, treating, and following up with patients suffering from allergic conditions. Tasks include conducting allergy tests, informing patients about allergens and treatment options, administering medications, and monitoring treatment effects. A key part of the role is patient education and counseling to prevent and manage allergic reactions in daily life. The work environment is often clinic- or reception-based, with collaboration with doctors, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals common. The role requires precision, empathy, and the ability to handle both acute and chronic issues across different age groups.
Salary development over time
The salary for an allergy nurse has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, increasing to 42 900 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the salary has continued to rise to 43 900 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 7% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for specialized healthcare skills, especially as allergic diseases become more common. Salary growth may also be driven by more employers competing for trained personnel, while the workload and responsibilities of this specialist role have expanded. The trend indicates that specialization in allergy provides stable and growing salary advancement in an otherwise competitive healthcare sector.
Allergy nurse salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 264 SEK/hour (based on 166 hours/month)
- Women earn: 43 700 SEK/month (96 % of men's salary)
- Men earn: 45 400 SEK/month
- Regional differences: May occur, but data is limited for this specialization
Education and qualifications
To work as a nurse specializing in allergies, a licensed nurse degree (3 years) is required, often supplemented with further training or experience in allergology. It is common for nurses in this field to pursue continuing education through courses, certifications, and internships at clinics specialized in allergy diseases. Employers value both academic competence and practical experience, especially when managing complex patient cases and working in multidisciplinary teams.
- Licensed nurse degree: 3 years (basic education)
- Further training in allergology: Specialized courses or master's programs
- Clinical experience: Internships or work at allergy clinics
- Professional development: Ongoing courses, seminars, and certifications
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
Allergy nurses often work closely with both children and adults, offering a unique opportunity to follow patients throughout their lives and impact their quality of life long-term. This variety and long-term patient contact is one of the most appreciated aspects of the profession.
Common benefits and compensations
Allergy nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, professional development, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Many public sector employers also provide occupational pensions, subsidized lunches, and support for further education. In some cases, additional allowances for unsocial hours and bonuses during demanding periods are available.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions requiring allergy expertise is considered relatively low, as demand for specialized healthcare staff remains high. However, challenges include increasing workloads, especially during pollen season and in areas with limited access to allergy specialists. Filling vacant positions can be difficult despite low unemployment within the profession. Another challenge is staying updated on new treatment methods and guidelines within allergy care, requiring continuous professional development. Overall, the profession offers significant opportunities but also demands flexibility and engagement.
Tips for aspiring allergy nurses
To succeed as an allergy nurse, it’s beneficial to have a strong desire to help others and be attentive to patients’ needs, as communication is often key to creating trust. Precision is important during allergy assessments and treatments to ensure correct diagnoses and interventions. An interest in medical news and research facilitates the implementation of new treatment methods. Flexibility and stress resilience are valuable qualities, especially during busy periods. Being pedagogical and able to explain complex medical concepts simply is appreciated by patients and colleagues alike. Engagement in further education and active participation in team work enhances knowledge and job satisfaction. Building good relationships with colleagues and other professionals contributes to a stimulating and safe work environment.
Key facts about allergy nurses
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Salary range: 40,700–77,200 SEK/month
- Education level: Licensed nurse (3 years), often with further training in allergology
- Work environment: Clinic- and reception-based, often in teams
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 375 job openings in the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an allergy nurse, career development can include roles such as specialist nurse, clinic manager, or team leader within allergology. There are also opportunities to work in research, education, or as a consultant in the pharmaceutical industry. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities remain strong, and demand for basic trained nurses is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is paradoxical: despite high demand, filling all positions can be difficult, indicating good future prospects for those who choose to specialize in the field.
Frequently asked questions about allergy nurses
- What does an allergy nurse earn?
- The average salary is 43 900 SEK per month, with a range between 40,700 and 77,200 SEK.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn 43 700 SEK (96 % of men's salary), while men have an average salary of 45 400 SEK.
- What education is required to work as an allergy nurse?
- A licensed nurse degree (3 years) and often further training in allergology.
- What is the job market like for allergy nurses?
- Demand is high, and there are currently 375 job openings in the profession.
- What are the duties of an allergy nurse?
- Diagnosis, treatment, patient education, and follow-up of allergic diseases.
- What career opportunities are available?
- Specialist roles, clinic management, research, education, or consulting are possible paths.
- What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
- The highest salary is 77,200 SEK (male, public sector, research education); the lowest is 40,700 SEK (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years).
