1. National Regulations and Framework

Sweden has a robust healthcare system, and poison control is an integral part of its emergency services. The Swedish Poisons Information Centre (Giftinformationscentralen) is the national authority responsible for providing advice and guidance in cases of poisoning. It operates under the Swedish Medical Products Agency (Läkemedelsverket) and collaborates with healthcare providers, emergency services, and the public.

• Role of the Swedish Poisons Information Centre: The center provides 24/7 expert advice on poisoning incidents, including exposure to chemicals, medications, plants, and other toxic substances.
• Regulations on Hazardous Substances: Sweden follows strict EU regulations (e.g., REACH and CLP) for the classification, labeling, and safe handling of chemicals. Products containing hazardous substances must include clear warning labels and safety instructions in Swedish.

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2. Contact Information

In case of poisoning or suspected poisoning, you can contact the Swedish Poisons Information Centre directly:

• Phone Number: +46 10 456 6700 (available 24/7)
• Website: Giftinformationscentralen (information available in Swedish, with some resources in English)
• Emergency Number: If the situation is life-threatening, call 112 (the national emergency number) and request an ambulance.

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3. General Costs

• Consultation with the Poisons Information Centre: Free of charge. The service is publicly funded and available to everyone, including visitors and immigrants.
• Emergency Medical Services (Ambulance): If an ambulance is required, the cost depends on the region (county) but is generally affordable. For example, ambulance fees typically range from SEK 0 to SEK 400 for residents, and visitors may need to pay out-of-pocket unless covered by travel insurance or reciprocal healthcare agreements (e.g., EU citizens with an EHIC card).
• Hospital Treatment: Costs for hospital care vary depending on residency status and insurance coverage. Swedish residents pay a capped fee, while visitors may need to cover the full cost unless insured.

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4. Standard Procedures for Handling Poisoning Emergencies

If you or someone else is exposed to a toxic substance, follow these steps:

Step 1: Assess the Situation

• Identify the substance: Check the product label or packaging for information about the substance involved.
• Determine the exposure route: Was the substance ingested, inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or splashed into the eyes?
• Check symptoms: Look for signs of poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, difficulty breathing, or unconsciousness.

Step 2: Call for Help

• Non-life-threatening cases: Call the Swedish Poisons Information Centre at +46 10 456 6700 for advice. Be prepared to provide details about the substance, the amount involved, and the affected person's age, weight, and symptoms.
• Life-threatening cases: Call 112 immediately and request an ambulance. Inform the operator about the poisoning and follow their instructions.

Step 3: Provide First Aid (if safe to do so)

• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a medical professional. Rinse the mouth with water and avoid giving food or drink unless advised.
• Skin exposure: Remove contaminated clothing and rinse the affected area with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.
• Eye exposure: Rinse the eyes with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes, keeping the eyelids open.
• Inhalation: Move the person to fresh air and ensure they are breathing comfortably.

Step 4: Follow Medical Advice

• Follow the instructions provided by the Poisons Information Centre or emergency services. If hospitalization is required, bring the product packaging or a sample of the substance (if safe to do so) for identification.

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5. Country-Specific Considerations

Visitors and immigrants should be aware of the following:

• Language Barrier: The Swedish Poisons Information Centre primarily operates in Swedish, but many staff members can assist in English. If you are not fluent in either language, consider having a Swedish-speaking friend or interpreter available when calling.
• Common Poisoning Risks in Sweden:
  • Medications: Accidental overdoses or mix-ups with prescription drugs.
  • Household Chemicals: Cleaning products, detergents, and other chemicals are common sources of poisoning.
  • Wild Plants and Mushrooms: Sweden has a rich natural environment, and foraging is popular. However, some plants and mushrooms are toxic (e.g., fly agaric mushrooms or lily of the valley). Always consult a local expert before consuming wild plants or fungi.
  • Alcohol and Nicotine Products: Sweden has unique products like snus (a moist tobacco product) and high-strength alcohol, which can pose risks if misused.
• Child Safety: Swedish homes often have childproofing measures, but visitors with children should ensure that medications, chemicals, and other hazardous items are stored out of reach.

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6. Preventive Measures

• Store Hazardous Substances Safely: Keep chemicals, medications, and other toxic items in their original containers and out of reach of children.
• Read Labels Carefully: Follow the safety instructions on product labels, especially for cleaning agents and pesticides.
• Be Cautious with Foraging: Only consume wild plants or mushrooms if you are certain they are safe. Consider taking a guided foraging tour or consulting a local expert.
• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with common poisonous plants, mushrooms, and substances in Sweden.

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7. Additional Resources

• Pharmacies (Apotek): Swedish pharmacies can provide advice on minor poisoning cases and sell activated charcoal, which may be recommended in some situations.
• Healthcare Hotline (1177 Vårdguiden): For non-urgent medical advice, call 1177 or visit 1177.se. The service is available in multiple languages and can guide you to appropriate care.

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By understanding these procedures and resources, visitors and immigrants in Sweden can feel confident in handling poisoning emergencies effectively. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help when in doubt.