What does a nurse in palliative care do? – Tasks and work environment
A nurse in palliative care works to alleviate suffering and improve quality of life for patients with incurable diseases. Tasks include medical interventions such as administering medication and monitoring symptoms, as well as providing support to patients and their relatives. The work is often done in teams with doctors, assistant nurses, counselors, and other professionals, in inpatient care, home care, and specialized palliative units. The environment is characterized by high ethical engagement and requires great sensitivity, as meetings involve people at the end of life and their loved ones. Flexibility and the ability to handle emotionally demanding situations are crucial in this role.
Salary development over time
The salary for a nurse specializing in palliative care has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 42,100 SEK per month, increasing to 44 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 45 500 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 8% over the period. This positive salary trend reflects an increased demand for specialist competence in palliative care and a general focus on improving working conditions for specialist nurses. Salary differences between men and women are relatively small, with women earning on average 98% of what men do. The salary increases can also be linked to a greater need for experienced nurses as the population ages and care needs grow.
It is not uncommon for nurses in palliative care to develop close relationships with patients and their families during a short but intense period. This contact can provide valuable insights and personal growth, but also places high demands on professional boundaries and recovery.
Nurse in palliative care salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 45 500 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 43,100 SEK/month (men), 43,200 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (men), 52,600 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage (average): 274 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 98% of men's salaries
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer
Education and qualifications
To work as a nurse in palliative care, a licensed nursing degree and often a one-year specialist training in palliative care or related fields are required. The education combines theoretical studies with practical training and focuses on advanced nursing, ethics, and communication. Entry into the profession requires both academic merits and personal maturity to handle difficult conversations and situations.
- Basic education: Nursing degree (3 years, university or college)
- Specialist training: Palliative care (1 year, advanced)
- Practical training: Clinical practice included in both basic and specialist education
- Certifications: Opportunities for specialized courses in communication methods and ethics
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, nurses in palliative care are often offered benefits such as overtime allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, wellness grants, paid further education, and psychosocial support. Many also receive extra compensation for on-call duties, mentoring roles, and options for flexible hours or reduced working hours. Psychosocial support and supervision are common to prevent burnout in the profession.
Competition and challenges
The job market for nurses in palliative care is characterized by a high demand for competence, reflected in the fact that there are 375 job openings within the profession. At the same time, the role involves emotionally demanding tasks and a need for continuous professional development. The shortage of specialist-trained nurses can lead to high workload and difficulties in recovery. Regional differences in salaries and working conditions exist, making competition for workforce vary across the country. The high ethical burden and constant encounters with death mean many experience a need for a supportive work environment and regular supervision.
Tips for those who want to become a nurse in palliative care
To succeed as a nurse in palliative care, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and the ability to meet patients and relatives with sensitivity and respect. Developing good communication skills facilitates difficult conversations and creates security for everyone involved. Precision and the ability to work systematically are important qualities, especially regarding medication management and documentation. To sustain long-term in the profession, it is wise to find early strategies for recovery and use supervision as support. A professional attitude and the ability to set boundaries between work and private life are crucial for managing emotional challenges. Being curious about new knowledge and participating in further training enhances both personal competence and job satisfaction. Finally, patience and understanding that development in this role occurs gradually and often through experience are essential.
Key facts about nurses in palliative care
- Education level: Nursing degree + specialist training (4 years)
- Work environment: Multidisciplinary teams within inpatient care, home care, and palliative units
- Work form: Shift work with on-call duties and irregular hours
- Demand: High, with 375 job openings within the profession
- Special skills: Symptom relief, communication methods, and ethics
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a nurse in palliative care can develop into roles such as coordinator, educator, or supervisor of new colleagues. There are also opportunities to work as a healthcare developer, chief nurse, or engage in research and quality improvement within palliative care. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate a high demand for specialist nurses, although specific future assessments for palliative care are lacking. The demographic trend with an aging population indicates a continued need for expertise in the field. Education and experience in palliative care increase opportunities for career advancement and taking on more advanced responsibilities.
Frequently asked questions about nurses in palliative care
- What does a nurse in palliative care earn?
- The average salary is 45 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and region.
- What education is required to work in palliative care?
- A basic nursing degree and often a one-year specialist training in palliative care are required.
- What is the work environment like for nurses in palliative care?
- Work is carried out in teams and the environment is often emotionally demanding, focusing on the needs of patients and their relatives.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
- What benefits are offered beyond salary?
- Common benefits include overtime allowances, wellness grants, paid further training, and psychosocial support.
- What is the job market like for nurses with this specialization?
- Demand is high with 375 job openings within the profession.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK (men), 52,600 SEK (women); the lowest salary is 43,100 SEK (men), 43,200 SEK (women).
