Ostomy nurse

What does a stomisurgical nurse do? – Tasks and work environment

A stomisurgical nurse is responsible for caring for patients who have or will receive a stoma, which is a surgically created opening in the abdomen for bowel or urine diversion. Tasks include advanced wound care, patient education, testing of stomic materials, and support with lifestyle changes. Contact with patients is often long-term and requires great sensitivity. The work is usually performed in specialized clinics at hospitals or outpatient care, where collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals is central. The work environment involves both clinical tasks and counseling, with elements of training for colleagues and relatives.

Salary development over time

The salary of a stomisurgical nurse has developed positively over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,100 SEK per month, rising to 42 900 SEK during 2023 and further to 43 900 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 6.8% over three years. The development reflects continued high demand for specialist competence in stomic care, where both skills shortages and increased quality requirements drive up salary levels. The market’s increased awareness of the stomisurgical nurse’s role and importance in the care chain contribute to strengthening salary growth compared to other basic nursing professions.

Stomisurgical nurse salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector)
• Highest salary: 77,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, research qualification)
• Hourly wage: 264 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (women: 43 700 SEK, men: 45 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but top salaries are often found in metropolitan areas and within the public sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a stomisurgical nurse, a license as a nurse is required, along with further education in stomic care, often in the form of a specialist training. The educational path combines theoretical studies with practical training and specialization in surgical nursing. Many employers also value experience from surgical care or work with similar patient groups.

• Nursing degree: 3 years (basic education, license required)
• Further training in stomic care: 1 year (specialist training or advanced course)
• Practical training: Clinical service in surgery or gastroenterology is recommended
• Certification: Possibility of certification through professional networks or training providers
• Prerequisites: Licensed nurse, often with experience in surgical care

Common benefits and compensations

Stomisurgical nurses are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, further training, and skills development. Many employers also provide extra vacation days, flexible hours, and the possibility of part-time or remote work for administrative tasks. Compensation for unsocial hours may also be provided, especially in hospital-based roles.

Competition and challenges

The competition for stomisurgical nurse positions is relatively low, as the demand for specialist competence is high and the number of trained professionals is limited. At the same time, the profession faces challenges such as high patient pressure, the need for continuous skills development, and emotionally demanding situations. Workload can vary, and high demands are placed on both medical knowledge and the ability to handle complex patient cases. Another challenge is staying updated on new aids and treatment methods within stomic care.

Tips for aspiring stomisurgical nurses

To succeed as a stomisurgical nurse, it’s good to have a genuine interest in patient-centered work and a desire to make a difference in people’s lives. Empathy and sensitivity are crucial qualities, as many patients are in sensitive life situations. Precision and analytical skills facilitate testing of materials and follow-up of treatments. It’s also wise to actively seek internships in surgery or gastroenterology during basic training, and to participate in further education and networks within stomic care. Flexibility and good teamwork skills are valuable, as the work often involves interdisciplinary teams and requires adapting to the needs of both patients and colleagues.

Key facts about stomisurgical nurses

• Education level: Nursing degree + specialist training (4 years)
• Salary range: 40,700–77,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 43 900 SEK/month (2024)
• Work environment: Hospitals, specialist clinics, or outpatient care
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, 375 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a stomisurgical nurse, there are good opportunities to take on more advanced roles, such as coordinator of stomic teams, educator for healthcare staff, or advisor within medical technology companies. Some choose to deepen their involvement in research or supervise students. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities remain large, and demand is expected to stay unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by the paradox of both a shortage of specialists and some turnover within the profession, providing good prospects for those wishing to develop or change workplaces.

Common questions about stomisurgical nurses

• What does a stomisurgical nurse earn?
  - The average salary is 43 900 SEK per month, with a range between 40,700 and 77,200 SEK depending on experience, education, and workplace.
• How to become a stomisurgical nurse?
  - First, a nursing degree (3 years) is required, followed by further education or specialization in stomic care.
• What are the duties of a stomisurgical nurse?
  - Duties include patient education, wound care, testing of materials, and psychosocial support.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is stable with significant job opportunities, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What benefits are offered?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, further training, and extra vacation days.
• Where are the highest salaries?
  - The highest salaries are found in the public sector, especially in metropolitan areas and for individuals with research qualifications.