What does a Registered Nurse do? – Tasks and Work Environment
Registered Nurses provide care, support, and medical treatment to patients within healthcare services. Tasks include administering medication, monitoring patient conditions, coordinating care efforts, and guiding both patients and relatives. They are also responsible for documentation and communication with other professionals such as doctors, assistant nurses, and physiotherapists. The work environment varies from hospitals and health centers to home care and assisted living, often with a fast pace requiring precision and flexibility.
Wage development over time
The salary of a Registered Nurse has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, rising to 42 900 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 900 SEK in 2024. This development represents an increase of approximately 6.8% over three years. The wage growth can be explained by the ongoing demand for trained nurses, increased skill requirements, and union negotiations for better conditions. Despite this positive trend, some gender wage gaps remain, and regional differences exist depending on employer and sector.
Registered Nurse Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 264 SEK
- Gender wage gap: Women earn 96% of what men do (men: 45 400 SEK, women: 43 700 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data varies, but generally higher wages in metropolitan regions
The nursing profession offers many opportunities for specialization, for example in anesthesia, intensive care, or pediatrics. Many nurses choose to further their education to take on greater responsibility or change work environments, which can provide both variety and advanced skills.
Education and Qualifications
To work as a Registered Nurse, licensure is required, which is obtained after completing a nursing program at university or college. The program combines theoretical studies with practical clinical training and provides broad medical knowledge and care skills. Admission is via university entrance exam or high school grades, and some programs may have specific prerequisites.
- Formal degree: Nursing degree, 3 years (180 ECTS) at university/college
- Licensure: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after approved completion of the program
- Practical training: Clinical practice included in the program
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and certain science subjects
- Further education: Opportunities for specialization (e.g., anesthesia, intensive care, district nursing)
Common Benefits and Compensation
Registered Nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, shift allowances for evenings, nights, and weekends, as well as occupational pension. Other common compensations include wellness contributions, professional development, and sometimes flexible hours or individualized salary depending on employer and sector.
Competition and Challenges
The demand for Registered Nurses remains high, but recruitment can be challenging, especially in certain regions and specialties. Despite this, there is a paradox where unemployment among nurses is low, yet the proportion working part-time or leaving the profession is relatively high. Challenges include high workload, inconvenient hours, and the need for continuous skill development. The work environment can be stressful, requiring both medical expertise and social skills. Nationally, the demand for nurses is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
Tips for Aspiring Registered Nurses
To succeed as a Registered Nurse, combine empathy with analytical skills and stress resilience. Developing good communication skills is recommended, as clear dialogue with patients and colleagues is crucial for patient safety. Being flexible and adaptable to rapid changes in the work environment makes daily work easier, especially in high-paced settings. Accuracy is vital in medication handling and documentation, and a structured approach reduces mistakes. The ability to collaborate in teams while taking initiative is valuable in complex care situations. Seek internships early and be open to different workplaces to find the environment that suits you best. Engage in continuing education and stay updated on new research to enhance your professional competence.
Key Facts about Registered Nurses
- Education level: Nursing degree, 3 years (180 ECTS)
- Salary range: 40,700–77,200 SEK/month
- Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
- Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
- Typical work arrangement: Shift work in the public sector
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After 3–5 years in the profession, a Registered Nurse may choose to specialize in areas such as anesthesia, intensive care, psychiatry, or pediatrics. Opportunities also exist to advance to managerial roles like department head or to become a healthcare educator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market for newly qualified nurses remains strong with ample opportunities and stable demand over the next five years. Nationwide, there are 375 job openings within the profession, reflecting the high need for healthcare skills. Further education and experience increase chances for higher salaries and more advanced roles.
Common Questions about Registered Nurses
- What does a Registered Nurse earn?
- The average salary is 43 900 SEK per month, ranging from 40,700 to 77,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
- How does one become a Registered Nurse?
- By completing the nursing program at a university or college (3 years) and applying for licensure from the National Board of Health and Welfare.
- Are there differences between male and female Registered Nurses?
- Yes, men earn on average 45 400 SEK, while women earn 43 700 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's wages.
- What does the future hold for Registered Nurses?
- The job market is strong with many opportunities, and demand is expected to stay stable over the next five years.
- In which environments can a Registered Nurse work?
- Typical workplaces include hospitals, health centers, home care, and assisted living facilities, often with shift work.
- What benefits are common for Registered Nurses?
- Benefits include shift allowances, occupational pension, wellness contributions, and extra vacation days.
- How many job openings are available for Registered Nurses?
- There are 375 available positions within the group of professionally trained nurses.
