Assistant nurse, home health care

What does an assistant nurse in home healthcare do? – Tasks and work environment

An assistant nurse in home healthcare primarily provides care and support to patients in their own homes. Tasks include medication management, wound dressing, sampling, personal care, and assistance with daily activities. Documentation of efforts and collaboration with nurses, doctors, and relatives are central parts of the profession. The work environment is characterized by independent work, meetings with people in various life situations, and often a fast pace where flexibility and empathy are crucial. Daily work can vary greatly depending on patient needs and living environments.

Salary development over time

The salary for assistant nurses in home healthcare has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK per month, increasing to 31 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 32 800 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7% over the period. This salary development is linked to increased demand for assistant nurses, especially in home healthcare where the need for qualified staff grows with an aging population. Union negotiations and improved employment conditions have also contributed to the positive salary trend. Despite the increase, challenges around workload and work environment remain, making the profession a topic for ongoing discussions about further salary increases.

Assistant nurse, home healthcare salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 32 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education <9 years)
• Highest salary: 35,800 SEK (female, municipal sector, secondary education ≤2 years)
• Hourly wage: 197 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (women 32 900 SEK, men 32 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as an assistant nurse in home healthcare, a secondary education in care and social work is required, often supplemented with specialization in home healthcare or elderly care. Many employers also prefer candidates with practical experience in the healthcare sector and good knowledge of Swedish. Additional merits can include training in medication management or dementia care.

• Secondary care and social work education: Usually 3 years
• Adult education or vocational packages: Alternative pathways for adults without secondary education
• Specialized courses: e.g., medication management, dementia care
• Practical training: Included as a mandatory part of the education
• Language skills: Good Swedish speaking and writing skills are required

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for assistant nurses in home healthcare include shift allowances for evening and weekend work, wellness contributions, extra vacation days, and opportunities for skills development. Many employers also offer work clothing, favorable pension contributions, and support for further education within healthcare. In some regions, there are options for flexible working hours or individually adapted schedules.

Challenges and competition

The profession as an assistant nurse in home healthcare is characterized by high demand, leading to good employment opportunities in most regions. At the same time, there are reports of difficulties in recruiting and retaining staff, especially in rural areas where workloads are often higher. Many work part-time, which affects income and work environment. Increased workload and complex patient cases require ongoing training, and the profession can sometimes be physically and emotionally demanding. Digitalization and new working methods also require adaptability and technical understanding.

Tips for those who want to become an assistant nurse in home healthcare

To succeed as an assistant nurse in home healthcare, it is good to have a genuine interest in helping others and a high sensitivity to patients' needs. The ability to work independently under own responsibility is crucial, as the work often involves solitary work in patients' homes. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with patients, relatives, and colleagues. Being flexible and able to handle quick changes during the workday is important, as is patience and a professional attitude even in stressful situations. Regularly updating your knowledge in healthcare and being open to new working methods contributes to security and development in the profession.

Key facts about assistant nurses in home healthcare

• Educational level: Secondary care and social work education
• Work environment: Independent work in patients' homes
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially in larger cities
• Gender distribution: Women dominate the profession and have slightly higher average salaries
• Typical work form: Part-time, but full-time is also common

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an assistant nurse in home healthcare, there are opportunities to develop into a specialist assistant nurse, coordinator, or to pursue further education as a registered nurse. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the prospects for employment are excellent, with an expected increase in demand over the next five years. This development is driven by an aging population and increased home care needs. The profession also offers opportunities to work in related areas such as home help, elderly care homes, or habilitation. Regionally, there are currently 375 available jobs in the field, further emphasizing good future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about assistant nurses in home healthcare

• What does an assistant nurse earn in home healthcare?
  - The average salary is 32 800 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employment type.
• How has the salary development been for assistant nurses in home healthcare?
  - Salaries have steadily increased over the past three years, from 30,700 SEK (2022) to 32 800 SEK (2024).
• What education is required to work as an assistant nurse in home healthcare?
  - A secondary education in care and social work is required, often supplemented with practical training and specialized courses.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women have a slightly higher average salary and earn 102% of what men do in the profession.
• What opportunities for further education are available?
  - Opportunities exist to further qualify as, for example, a specialist assistant nurse or registered nurse.
• What is the job market like for assistant nurses in home healthcare?
  - The job market is very good with high demand and many available positions.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Empathy, independence, flexibility, and good communication skills are important qualities.