Working as a Nurse in Sweden: Degree and Certification Requirements

Introduction

.Accomplishing a career in healthcare as a nurse in Sweden requires a specific set of qualifications, primarily a nursing degree and registration with the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare (Socialstyrelsen). This article will explore the qualifications necessary to work as a nurse in Sweden, highlighting the differences between various nursing roles and the significance of education and certification.

Hierarchy of Nursing Roles in Sweden

The nursing roles in Sweden are structured as follows, with the necessary qualifications for each:

Ranked by Education and Experience

Legitimerad sjukskterska (Licensed Nurse) - With 2000 points (equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Nursing) Legitimerad underskterska (Nursing Assistant) - With 1350-1500 points (equivalent to a high school diploma in nursing) Vrdbitrde (Orderly/Care Assistant) - No formal education required; restricted to basic tasks in nursing homes

Note: UK equivalents are provided for reference.

Requirements for Working as a Nurse in Sweden

Most nursing positions in Sweden require a recognized nursing degree and registration with Socialstyrelsen. The role of a nurse is complex, combining clinical skills with patient care and management. Here's a detailed breakdown of the requirements for each role:

Registered Nurse (Legitimerad sjukskterska)

To work as a Registered Nurse in Sweden, you must:

Obtain a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from an accredited institution. Pass the Swedish Nurse Licensing Examination. Register your nursing qualification with Socialstyrelsen.

For UK nurses, 2000 points (equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Nursing) are required.

Nursing Assistant (Legitimerad underskterska)

To work as a Nursing Assistant in Sweden, you must:

Have a high school diploma or equivalent in nursing. Possess practical nursing experience and potentially additional certification. Register your qualifications with Socialstyrelsen.

For UK nurses, 1350-1500 points (equivalent to a high school diploma in nursing) are required.

Orderly/Care Assistant (Vrdbitrde)

To work as an Orderly or Care Assistant in Sweden, no formal education is required. However:

You must be registered with Socialstyrelsen. The role is limited to basic tasks in nursing homes, such as ADL (Activities of Daily Living) support and cleaning.

These roles are not eligible for UK equivalents.

Key Takeaways

Working as a nurse in Sweden without a degree would be challenging, if not impossible, for most positions. Here are the key points to consider:

Degree Requirement: A recognized nursing degree, typically a Bachelor's degree, is the minimum requirement. Certification: You must pass the Swedish Nurse Licensing Examination and be registered with Socialstyrelsen. Restrictions: Healthcare roles without a degree, such as Nursing Assistant and Care Assistant, have limited responsibilities.

For those interested in working in healthcare in Sweden, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for each role you consider.

Conclusion

Successfully transitioning into a nursing career in Sweden hinges on meeting the necessary educational and professional requirements. Understanding the structure of the nursing hierarchy and the associated qualifications is crucial for anyone aiming to work in this field. Whether you are seeking a role as a Registered Nurse, Nursing Assistant, or Care Assistant, being well-informed about the requirements is key to your success.