Nurse rehabilitation

What does a Nurse in Rehabilitation do? – Tasks and work environment

A Nurse in rehabilitation works with patients who need recovery after illness, surgery, or injury. Tasks include planning and implementing individualized rehabilitation efforts, collaborating with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and doctors, as well as providing support and guidance to patients and their relatives. The work is often carried out at rehabilitation clinics, within municipal healthcare, or private healthcare facilities. The environment is characterized by a fast pace, close teamwork, and frequent contact with patients over extended periods, which requires both medical expertise and strong communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for Nurses in rehabilitation has shown positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,900 SEK per month, increasing to 41 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 43 800 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of approximately 7% over the period, which is slightly above the average for nursing professions overall. The salary trend can be explained by increased demand for specialist competence in rehabilitation, as well as a growing focus on rehabilitative efforts in healthcare. Differences in salary development between regions and employers exist, with municipal sector often offering higher salaries than private sector, especially for those with shorter post-secondary education. The salary increase also reflects a trend where employers strive to retain experienced nurses in rehabilitation to meet increasing patient flow.

Rehabilitation Nurse Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 43 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,200 SEK/month (male, private sector, unspecified education level)
• Highest salary: 45,600 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Hourly wage: 263 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 43 900 SEK/month; no specific data for men
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, with higher salaries in the municipal sector

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Nurse in Rehabilitation, licensure as a nurse is required, typically through a three-year university program. After the basic education, further training in rehabilitation—either through specialist courses or targeted rehabilitation medicine courses—is common. Practical experience from healthcare work and good teamwork skills are important for success in the profession.

• Basic education: Nursing degree (3 years, university/higher education)
• Further training: Specialist training in rehabilitation or related fields
• Practical training: Mandatory clinical practice during basic education
• Certifications: Possibility to obtain certificates in rehabilitation medicine and related topics
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies

Common benefits and compensations

Rehabilitation nurses are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, flexitime, wellness grants, and opportunities for professional development. Compensation for unsocial hours, access to occupational health services, and subsidized meals are also common. Some employers provide pension contributions beyond statutory levels.

Competition and challenges

The demand for Rehabilitation Nurses is generally high, but competition for the most attractive positions can vary depending on region and employer. A challenge is the often high workload, especially in the municipal sector where patient flow can be intense. High demands are placed on both medical competence and the ability to work independently. Continuing education and specialization are important for remaining competitive in the job market. Limited availability of further training places can make it difficult for some to quickly advance their careers.

Tips for those wanting to become a Rehabilitation Nurse

To succeed as a Rehabilitation Nurse, having a genuine interest in helping people regain function and quality of life is beneficial. Good teamwork skills are essential since the work is performed in multidisciplinary teams, and an empathetic approach helps build trust with patients and relatives. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are important since each patient has unique needs and rehabilitation plans may need quick adjustments. Clear communication skills facilitate internal collaboration and contact with patients. Apply for internships in rehabilitation early in your education to gain experience and build networks. Staying updated on new methods and research in rehabilitation increases the chances of a successful and rewarding career.

Key facts about Rehabilitation Nurses

• Education level: Nursing degree (3 years)
• Work setting: Often teamwork within inpatient or outpatient care
• Demand: High, 375 available jobs within the occupational group
• Special skills: Rehabilitation medicine and patient support
• Work environment: Close contact with patients over longer periods

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to take on more advanced roles, such as coordinator for rehabilitation teams or specialist in rehabilitation medicine. Some choose to further their education to work as healthcare developers or managers within rehabilitation services. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate high demand across the entire occupational group of company nurses, but no specific forecast for Rehabilitation Nurses due to limited statistical data. The large number of available jobs, however, suggests good opportunities for both recent graduates and experienced nurses seeking further development in the field.

Frequently asked questions about Rehabilitation Nurses

• What does a Rehabilitation Nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 43 800 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, sector, and education.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Women earn on average 43 900 SEK; limited data on men but the highest salary for men is 44,000 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Rehabilitation Nurse?
  - Licensure as a nurse is required, often supplemented with further training in rehabilitation.
• What is the job market like?
  - Demand is high with 375 available jobs within the occupational group of company nurses.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary is 45,600 SEK (female, municipal sector), lowest 43,200 SEK (male, private sector).
• What personal qualities are needed?
  - Empathy, teamwork skills, flexibility, and good communication are central to the profession.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries vary between regions and sectors, with higher levels in the municipal sector.