Sjuksköterska, primärvård

What does a nurse in primary care do? – Tasks and work environment

A nurse in primary care is responsible for assessing, planning, and implementing nursing interventions for patients of all ages, often in close collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals. The work includes reception duties, telephone advice, health examinations, sample collection, and wound care. The nurse plays a central role in coordinating care efforts, following up on treatments, and supporting patients with chronic illnesses. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace and constant interactions with patients, with a strong emphasis on independence, flexibility, and good communication.

Salary development over time

The salary for nurses in primary care has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 42 900 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to approximately 4.4% growth. In 2024, the average salary continued to rise to 43 900 SEK, an additional increase of just over 2.3% compared to the previous year. This positive salary trend can be linked to an increased demand for nurses, especially in primary care, where the need for qualified personnel is high. The trend shows that the market increasingly values experience and specialist competence, which also positively influences salary levels. At the same time, factors such as workload and work environment impact negotiations and further drive up salaries.

Nurse in primary care salary – comprehensive 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 degree)
• Hourly wage: 264 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men 45 400 SEK, women 43 700 SEK (women earn 96% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies but salary levels can be affected by region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a nurse in primary care, a license as a nurse is required, which is obtained after completing a higher education degree. The education includes both theoretical studies and practical clinical training. Many also choose to supplement with further education in areas such as district nursing or other specialties to strengthen their competence within primary care.

• Basic education: Nursing degree (university/higher education, 3 years)
• License: Issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare after graduation
• Further education: Specialist training, e.g., district nurse (1 year)
• Practical training: Clinical practice included in basic education
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and specific requirements in science subjects

Common benefits and compensations

Nurses in primary care are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized lunch, professional development, and extra compensation for unsocial hours. Additionally, opportunities for further education and salary exchange are available with some employers. The extent of benefits may vary between regions and employers, but secure employment and flexible working hours are common features.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions in primary care is generally low, as the demand for nurses remains high nationwide. At the same time, challenges include high work pace, complex patient cases, and increased administrative requirements. Many employers report difficulties in recruiting experienced nurses, which can lead to increased workload for existing staff. The challenge also lies in balancing patient needs with available resources. The work requires constantly updated skills and the ability to handle stressful situations professionally.

Tips for those who want to become a nurse in primary care

To succeed as a nurse in primary care, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in people and a strong sense of responsibility. Good organizational skills facilitate managing multiple patients and tasks simultaneously, while strong communication skills help build trust and collaborate effectively within the team. Flexibility is valuable, especially since workdays can vary greatly and unpredictable situations often arise. A continuous desire to develop and learn new things is also an advantage, as primary care demands broad medical knowledge and independent decision-making. Lastly, empathy and patience are invaluable qualities, as interactions with patients can be both challenging and rewarding.

Key facts about Nurse, primary care

• Education level: Nursing degree (3 years) + license
• Work environment: Clinics, health centers, or community teams
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment according to the Employment Service
• Number of available jobs: 375 (May 2024, entire profession)
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, daytime, but some evening and weekend shifts may occur

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities for further development into roles such as district nurse, healthcare developer, operations manager, or specialist in areas like diabetes, asthma/COPD, or child health. Many choose to advance into leadership roles or pursue further education in a specific field, leveraging their experience in primary care. The Employment Service assesses that job prospects for basic-trained nurses are very good and that demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years. Challenges with recruitment persist, which keeps competition low and salary growth positive. The profession thus offers secure employment and a wide range of career options.

Frequently asked questions about Nurse, primary care

• What does a nurse in primary care earn?
  - The average salary is 43 900 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and workplace.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 45 400 SEK while women earn 43 700 SEK, meaning women earn 96% of men's salaries.
• How do you become a nurse in primary care?
  - It requires a three-year nursing program at a university/higher education institution and a license from the National Board of Health and Welfare. Further training as a district nurse is common.
• What are the duties of a nurse in primary care?
  - Duties include reception work, telephone advice, sample collection, health checks, and care coordination.
• What are the future prospects for nurses in primary care?
  - The Employment Service estimates that job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common paths include further education to become a district nurse, specialist roles, or leadership positions such as healthcare developer or operations manager.
• What is the hourly wage for a nurse in primary care?
  - The average hourly wage is 264 SEK based on 166 hours of work per month.