Nurse, anesthesia

What does a nurse within anesthesia do? – Tasks and work environment

An anesthesia nurse, also called an anesthesiology nurse, is responsible for preparing, monitoring, and assisting patients with anesthesia and anesthesia procedures before surgical operations. Tasks include assessing the patient’s health status, administering anesthetic agents, and monitoring vital functions during surgery. After the procedure, the anesthesiology nurse is also involved in the recovery phase and follows up on the patient’s condition. The work is often performed in a team together with anesthesiologists, operating room nurses, and other healthcare staff, and the work environment is intense, technologically advanced, and demands high precision and quick problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an anesthesia nurse has steadily increased. In 2022, the average salary was 45,100 SEK per month, rising to 47,700 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 200 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 9% over the period. The salary increase can be explained by the high demand for specialist competence in anesthesia, an increased need for healthcare, and the ongoing shortage of qualified personnel in Swedish healthcare. The market’s willingness to pay for experience and specialist training has thus contributed to raising salaries in this profession, while employers are competing for staff.

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, public sector), 56,900 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 296 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (49 500 SEK vs 48 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is not available for current statistics

Education and qualifications

To work as an anesthesia nurse, a licensed nursing degree is required, followed by a specialist training in anesthesiology. The educational path is demanding and includes both theoretical studies and practical training in a clinical environment. Good knowledge of medical technology and continuous further education are necessary to keep up with developments in the field.

• Nursing degree: Basic education (3 years) and licensure
• Specialist training in anesthesiology: An additional 1 year
• Practical/clinical work: Included in both basic and specialist training
• Further education: Courses in medical technology, medication management, and emergency care are recommended
• Prerequisites: Passed grades in basic high school subjects and specific eligibility for the nursing program

Common benefits and compensations

Anesthesia nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, evening and weekend shift allowances, wellness grants, and opportunities for skill development. In some cases, pension schemes and employer-sponsored further training are also available.

Competition and challenges

The profession of anesthesia nurse is characterized by high competition for qualified personnel, which partly explains the positive salary development. At the same time, high demands are placed on stress resistance, technical competence, and the ability to make quick decisions. The work environment can be psychologically demanding, especially during emergency surgeries or unexpected complications. The shortage of experienced specialists can lead to a high workload, which in turn affects work-life balance. Challenges also include continuously updating oneself on new methods and medical equipment. Despite these challenges, the profession attracts many due to the opportunity to work with advanced care and make a difference in critical situations.

Tips for those who want to become an anesthesia nurse

To succeed as an anesthesia nurse, it is good to be meticulous, have strong problem-solving skills, and be able to handle stress constructively. Gaining broad experience in emergency and intensive care is recommended to build clinical competence. Being communicative and team-oriented is crucial, as the work is performed in teams where quick and clear decisions are often required. Flexibility and willingness to learn new technology facilitate daily work, as the profession develops rapidly. Prioritizing further education and participating in relevant courses strengthen career opportunities. An empathetic attitude and the ability to create a sense of security for patients under pressure are also important qualities for long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about anesthesia nurses

• Average salary: 49 200 SEK/month
• Educational path: Nursing degree + specialist training (4 years total)
• Gender salary gap: Women earn 102% of what men do
• Available jobs: 375 advertised positions within the profession
• Work environment: Technology-intensive and team-oriented operating environment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an anesthesia nurse can advance to roles such as specialist nurse, training manager, operating coordinator, or head nurse. Opportunities also exist to work with research, teaching, or as a consultant within medical technology. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but the large number of available positions indicates continued high demand. Skills in advanced anesthesia and the ability to handle new technology are highly valued on the job market, suggesting stable future prospects and good career opportunities for those wishing to specialize further.

Common questions about anesthesia nurses

• What does an anesthesia nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 49 200 SEK per month, with a salary range between 47,700 and 60,000 SEK.
• How long is the training to become an anesthesia nurse?
  - A total of 4 years: 3 years of basic education and 1 year of specialist training.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the duties of an anesthesia nurse?
  - Preparing patients, administering anesthesia, monitoring during surgery, and follow-up afterward.
• What is the job market like for anesthesia nurses?
  - There are 375 available positions and a continued high demand for specialist competence.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, stress resistance, teamwork skills, and technical interest are central qualities.
• What is the hourly wage for an anesthesia nurse?
  - The hourly wage is 296 SEK according to current statistics.