What does an ICU nurse do? – Tasks and work environment
An ICU nurse is responsible for caring for the most critically ill patients in intensive care units (ICU). Tasks include continuous monitoring of vital functions, administering advanced medications, handling medical technology equipment, and collaborating with doctors and other healthcare staff. The work often involves shifts, including day, night, and weekend work, and the environment is characterized by high pace, quick decision-making, and significant responsibility. Patient contact is close and intense, often requiring quick action in emergency situations where the patient's life is at risk.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, ICU nurses have experienced clear positive salary growth. The average salary was 46,800 SEK in 2022, increased to 48 900 SEK in 2023, and has now reached 51 000 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 9% during the period. Drivers behind the rise include high demand for specialist skills in intensive care, increased requirements for education and certification, and a greater focus on working conditions in healthcare. The general shortage of ICU nurses has also strengthened the need for competitive salaries and better working conditions, contributing to the positive trend.
ICU nurse salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 51 000 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 46,300 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, data missing)
- Highest salary: 62,000 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, research education)
- Highest salary for men: 57,000 SEK/month
- Lowest salary for men: 50,700 SEK/month
- Hourly wage (average): 307 SEK/hour
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 99%
- Regional differences: Information about variation is lacking
Education and qualifications
To work as an ICU nurse, a nursing degree and license are required, followed by a one-year specialized training in intensive care. The educational path includes a basic university education, followed by further training and often clinical practice in an ICU. High requirements are placed on medical knowledge, handling advanced equipment, and stress resilience.
- Basic education: Nursing degree (3 years, university)
- Specialized training: Further education in intensive care (1 year, advanced)
- License: Swedish nursing license required
- Practical training: Clinical practice included in education
- Certifications: Some employers require certification in advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (A-CPR)
ICU nurses often work in multidisciplinary teams where collaboration and communication are crucial for patient survival. The role involves frequent contact with patients and relatives, which demands high empathy and the ability to handle difficult conversations.
Common benefits and compensations
ICU nurses often receive extra shift allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, as well as special compensation for on-call duties. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, professional development, paid further training, and sometimes access to corporate health services. Some employers also offer additional vacation days or pension contributions beyond collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
The job market for ICU nurses is characterized by high demand but also high requirements. The shortage of experienced ICU nurses means competition for the most attractive positions is limited, but the workload can be demanding. Major challenges include the work environment: high pace, emotional stress, and responsibility for critically ill patients. Additionally, technological development and new treatment methods require continuous skills development. The ability to handle stress, make quick decisions, and work in teams is essential for success and job satisfaction.
Tips for those who want to become ICU nurses
To succeed as an ICU nurse, it helps to combine analytical skills with a calm demeanor. Resilience to stress makes it easier to handle the acute situations that often arise in intensive care, while good teamwork skills facilitate quick decision-making in the care team. High empathy and communication skills are important for professionally meeting both patients and relatives. Being thorough and having technical interest helps with using advanced equipment and monitoring patients' conditions. Finally, flexibility and a willingness to continually develop your knowledge are valuable, as intensive care constantly evolves and requires adaptation.
Key facts about ICU nurses
- Average salary: 51 000 SEK/month
- Salary range: 46,300–62,000 SEK/month
- Educational requirements: Nursing degree + specialized intensive care training
- Work environment: High-tech, shift work, high pace
- Job openings (2024): 375 in intensive care nursing
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as an ICU nurse, opportunities open for roles such as team leader, clinical supervisor, or further education, for example, as an anesthetic nurse. Many choose to deepen their expertise within specific ICU areas or research. The employment agency's prognosis does not provide an exact assessment due to limited data, but the high demand and the number of job openings (375 positions) indicate continued good prospects. The shortage of specialized ICU nurses suggests the job market remains stable, with good opportunities for advancement or specialization.
Frequently asked questions about ICU nursing
- What does an ICU nurse earn?
- The average salary is 51 000 SEK/month, with a range between 46,300 and 62,000 SEK/month.
- How do you become an ICU nurse?
- First, a nursing degree and license are required, followed by a one-year specialized training in intensive care.
- What are the working hours for ICU nurses?
- Work is often performed in shifts, including night, weekend, and evening shifts.
- What personal qualities are important?
- Stress resilience, empathy, teamwork skills, and technical interest are crucial.
- Are there regional salary differences?
- Information about variation is lacking, but salaries may vary depending on employer and region.
- What is the job market like?
- Currently, there are 375 job openings for ICU nurses, with continued high demand.
- What benefits are offered?
- Common benefits include shift allowances, wellness contributions, and paid professional development.
