Emergency treatment of poisoning, The distribution system of antidotes in Switzerland

Since 1986 emergency treatment of acute intoxications in Switzerland is based on a decentralized access to a standard selection of antidotes, whereas expert advice is provided by the Swiss Toxicological Information Centre. The more specific antidotes needing more complicated administration are available at 24 designated hospitals (regional treatment centres) to be reached in a maximum of 45 minutes by ambulance. Regular meetings between the information centre and the representatives of hospital pharmasists improve patient care by standardizing available antidotes, information on actual stocks, and recommendations for use. To fullfill his responsibility in the management of poison treatment the hospital pharmacist has to make use of traditional professional skills in a patient-oriented manner.