What does a nurse in home care do? – Tasks and work environment
Nurses in home care are responsible for providing medical care to patients in their own homes. Tasks include administering medications, performing medical treatments, monitoring patient health, and coordinating efforts with other healthcare providers. The work also involves guiding relatives and providing support for self-care. The work environment is characterized by variety, as the workplace can change between different homes and settings, requiring high levels of independence and flexibility.
Salary development over time
The salary for a nurse in home care has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, increasing to 42 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.8% during the period. The salary increase can be explained by continued high demand for competent nurses, especially within home care where the need for qualified staff is large. Challenges in recruitment and the increasing complexity of care needs have also contributed to rising wages, while employers compete to retain experienced staff.
Salary overview for nurses in home care
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, 3 years post-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 264 SEK
- Women earn: 43 700 SEK (96% of men's salary)
- Men earn: 45 400 SEK
Education and qualifications
To work as a nurse in home care, a license as a nurse is required, obtained after a three-year higher education. Additional training in areas such as district nurse or other specialties can be advantageous but is not always mandatory. Practical experience from healthcare work and good skills in working independently are highly valued.
- Nursing degree: 3 years at university/college
- License: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare
- Further training: For example, district nurse, 1 year
- Practical training: Included in basic education
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and specific courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
Working in home care often involves a high degree of independence and building trusting relationships with patients and relatives. Flexibility and the ability to make quick decisions on-site are crucial, as workdays can be unpredictable and each home represents a unique work environment.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for nurses in home care include occupational pension, wellness contributions, training allowances, and compensation for unsocial hours. Travel between patients can often be done with a company car or mileage allowance. Some employers also offer extra vacation days and flexible working hours to facilitate work-life balance.
Competition and challenges
The profession is characterized by high demand and great employment opportunities, but competition for the most attractive positions can be noticeable in certain regions. The recruitment situation is marked by a shortage of experienced nurses and some turnover within the profession. The work can be mentally demanding, especially as it often involves solo work and responsibility for complex patient cases in home environments. Expectations for flexible availability and good communication skills are high, while workload can sometimes be intense. Keeping up with new treatment methods and legislation is also a challenge.
Tips for those who want to become a nurse in home care
To succeed as a nurse in home care, it is good to be independent, as the work often involves making decisions on your own at patients' homes. Empathy and attentiveness are important qualities to build relationships and create trust with both patients and relatives. Good organizational skills help when the planning of daily visits can change quickly. Flexibility is crucial, as unexpected situations and urgent needs may arise. Patience and stress tolerance help manage pressured situations, while an interest in continuous further education provides advantages in a changing healthcare environment. Finally, good teamwork skills are essential for collaborating with other healthcare providers and team members.
Key facts about Nurse in Home Care
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Lowest/highest salary: 40,700–77,200 SEK/month
- Gender differences: Women earn 96% of men's salary
- Work form: Independent work in patients’ homes
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, it is common for nurses in home care to pursue further education, such as district nurse, specialist nurse, or take on leadership roles like coordinator or unit manager. There are also opportunities to work with training, quality development, or research within healthcare. The employment forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates that job opportunities remain large and demand is expected to be unchanged over the next five years. However, recruitment is described as paradoxical, with both high demand and some turnover within the profession. For those wishing to develop within the field, there are good opportunities for both broadening and deepening skills.
Frequently asked questions about Nurse in Home Care
- What does a Nurse in Home Care earn?
- The average salary is 43 900 SEK per month, ranging from 40,700 SEK to 77,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 43 700 SEK while men earn 45 400 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's salary.
- What education is required to work as a nurse in home care?
- Licensing as a nurse, which requires three years of higher education. Further training can be advantageous.
- What is the job market like for nurses in home care?
- Opportunities for employment are very good nationwide, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
- What benefits are common in the profession?
- Occupational pension, wellness contributions, compensation for unsocial hours, and flexible working hours are common benefits.
- What does a typical workday look like?
- The day involves home visits to patients, medical treatments, coordination with other healthcare providers, and documentation.
- What career opportunities are available after a few years?
- Further education to become a specialist, leadership roles, training assignments, or quality development are common career paths.
