Nurse, District

What does a district nurse do? – Tasks and work environment

A district nurse is responsible for providing health and medical care to patients of all ages, often within primary care and in patients' homes. Tasks include health assessments, vaccinations, sample collection, wound dressings, and lifestyle and self-care advice. Close collaboration with doctors, physiotherapists, and other specialists at health centers and in municipal home healthcare is common. The work environment is varied and can involve everything from reception duties to home visits, requiring flexibility, independence, and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary of a district nurse has shown steady and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,500 SEK per month, rising the following year to 44 300 SEK. In 2024, the average salary has increased to 45 900 SEK, representing a total increase of about 8% over three years. Key drivers of this salary development include sustained high demand for licensed nurses, especially in primary care where district nurses are central to meeting the community’s need for close healthcare. Increased requirements for specialist skills and greater responsibility have also contributed to rising wages. Nonetheless, there are some variations depending on employer, region, and education level.

District Nurse – comprehensive salary overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (female): 42,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (male): 45,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary (female): 49,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary (male): 48,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Women earn: 97% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a district nurse, licensure as a nurse is required, along with a one-year postgraduate specialist training in district nursing. The educational pathway begins with a three-year university/higher education degree in nursing, followed by a one-year advanced specialist training in district nursing, which typically includes practical components and clinical placements to develop skills and independently manage patients in primary care.

• Nursing degree: 3 years at university/higher education
• Specialist nursing degree (district): 1 year at advanced level
• Licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare: required to practice
• Clinical placements: included in both basic and specialist training
• Additional courses or certifications: e.g., in diabetes, asthma/COPD, or child health

Common benefits and compensation

District nurses often have access to benefit packages that may include extra vacation days, flexitime, wellness allowances, and professional development. Many employers also offer occupational pension, parental pay, and opportunities for further training. In some regions, additional compensation is provided for unsocial hours and home visits.

Competition and challenges

The profession as a district nurse is characterized by high demand but also challenges such as staffing shortages and increased requirements for specialist skills. Competition for positions can vary between regions, with larger cities often having more applicants per vacancy, while rural areas may find it harder to recruit. Administrative tasks and increasing patient loads require efficiency and prioritization. Digitalization and new working methods mean district nurses need to be open to change and ongoing education. Despite the workload, many experience a high degree of independence and job satisfaction due to the ability to follow patients over time.

Tips for aspiring district nurses

To succeed as a district nurse, it’s important to have a strong sense of responsibility and independence, as the work often involves making assessments and decisions on your own. Good communication skills are essential for collaborating with patients, relatives, and colleagues across different professions. Flexibility is helpful, especially when the workday can change rapidly, such as during urgent home visits. Being organized and able to handle administrative tasks alongside clinical work is also important. Engagement in continuous education and up-to-date knowledge, as well as empathy and the ability to build trust with patients over time, are highly valued.

Key facts about District Nurses

• Education level: Nursing degree + specialist training (4 years)
• Salary range: 42,000–49,600 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Typical work setting: Primary care, clinics, and home visits
• Demand: 375 job openings within the profession

Career paths and outlook

After three to five years as a district nurse, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as specialist in diabetes care, child health, or asthma/COPD clinics. Many also take on responsibilities as coordinators, care developers, or supervisors for students and new employees. Although the Employment Service does not provide an exact forecast for the profession due to limited data, the high number of vacancies indicates continued strong demand. Digitalization and expanded responsibilities are expected to further increase the need for experienced district nurses in the future.

Frequently asked questions about District Nurses

• What does a district nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 45 900 SEK per month, but varies with experience, education, and region.
• What education is required to become a district nurse?
  - Licensure as a nurse plus a one-year specialist training in district nursing.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn 97% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There is high demand with 375 job openings, especially in primary care.
• What are the duties of a district nurse?
  - Tasks include health checks, advice, vaccinations, wound dressings, and home visits.
• What career opportunities are available?
  - Further specialization in areas like diabetes, child health, or leadership roles within primary care.