What does an anesthesia nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
An anesthesia nurse, often called an anesthesiologist nurse, is responsible for planning, administering, and monitoring anesthesia during surgeries and other medical procedures. Tasks include preparing for anesthesia, monitoring the patient’s vital functions during the procedure and recovery, as well as providing support and information to patients and their families. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace and close collaboration with doctors, operating room nurses, and other healthcare staff. Anesthesia nurses mainly work in hospital operating departments, but can also be active in intensive care units or emergency services.
Salary development over time
The salary for an anesthesia nurse has shown a stable and positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,100 SEK, increasing to 47,700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has continued to rise to 49 200 SEK, representing a total increase of just over 9% over three years. This salary growth is driven by high demand for specialist competence in anesthesia, increased workload, and a greater focus on retaining and recruiting qualified personnel in healthcare. The wage increase also reflects the increased complexity and responsibility of the role, where skills and experience are highly valued.
Anesthesia nurse salary – complete 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: 296 SEK/hour
- Gender differences: Women earn 102% of men's salaries
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
To work as an anesthesia nurse, a license as a registered nurse is required, followed by further education to become a specialist nurse with a focus on anesthesia. The training combines theoretical studies with extensive practical training and demands high medical knowledge, technical skills, and the ability to handle emergency situations.
- Nursing degree: 3 years (basic education, bachelor level)
- Further training for anesthesia nurse: 1 year (master’s, specialist level)
- Licensure: Required from the National Board of Health and Welfare for both basic and specialist levels
- Practical training: Included during both basic and specialist training
- Prerequisites: Eligibility for the nursing program, often with a science-oriented high school background recommended
Anesthesia nurses often play a key role in emergency situations at hospitals, not just in the operating room. Their expertise in pharmacology and emergency care allows them to quickly step in and act during unexpected complications, where every second can be critical.
Common benefits and compensations
Anesthesia nurses are often offered benefits beyond their base salary, such as evening and night shift allowances, additional compensation for on-call duty, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development. Some employers also offer staff discounts, subsidized lunches, and extra vacation days. Opportunities for further training and participation in courses or conferences are common, as staying updated within the field is important.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as an anesthesia nurse is relatively low, as the demand for the profession is high and the number of trained professionals is limited. Challenges mainly lie in the work environment, where the pace is fast and the work often involves responsibility for critically ill patients. Stress, night shifts, and the need for continuous professional development are other factors affecting the role. Despite this, the profession attracts many due to the meaningful work and high degree of independence. Technological innovations and changes in healthcare structures also require adaptability and ongoing training.
Tips for those aspiring to become an anesthesia nurse
To succeed as an anesthesia nurse, it’s good to be precise and resilient, as the work requires quick decision-making under pressure. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with different professional groups in the operating room, while an empathetic approach is crucial for interacting with patients in vulnerable situations. Gaining experience from various healthcare environments early on helps build a broad skill base. Prioritizing further education and staying updated on new methods and medications provides a competitive edge. Finally, flexibility and a willingness to learn are important, as technology and routines are constantly evolving in anesthesia care.
Key facts about anesthesia nurses
- Salary range: 47,700–60,000 SEK/month
- Education level: Basic education (3 years) + specialist training (1 year)
- Work environment: Hospitals, operating rooms, sometimes intensive care or ambulance services
- Demand: High – 375 job openings within the profession
- Gender salary difference: Women earn on average more than men
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years in the profession, an anesthesia nurse can advance to leadership roles such as team leader in surgical departments or specialized roles with responsibilities for training new colleagues. Opportunities also exist to work in research, teaching, or further education to become an anesthesiologist. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, there is no specific assessment of future prospects for this title, but the overall demand in healthcare remains high, and there is a significant need for this expertise in the job market. The number of job openings within the profession is substantial, indicating good career opportunities and development potential.
Common questions about anesthesia nurses
- What does an anesthesia nurse earn?
- The average salary is 49 200 SEK per month, with a range between 47,700 and 60,000 SEK.
- How does one become an anesthesia nurse?
- 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 49 500 SEK and men 48 400 SEK, which means women earn approximately 102% of men's salaries.
- What is the work environment like for anesthesia nurses?
- The work environment is intense and varied, often in hospital operating rooms with high demands for teamwork and preparedness.
- What career opportunities are available?
- Opportunities include progressing to leadership roles, working with education, research, or further training to become an anesthesiologist.
- How many job openings are there in the profession?
- There are 375 available jobs according to the latest statistics.
- What is the required education level?
- Basic nursing education (3 years) plus specialist training in anesthesia (1 year).
