Sweden
Dear fellow caregivers,
You are welcoming a patient from Sweden.
Here is a list of useful information to know in the context of their medical care.
General Information
Distance Paris – – – > – – – Stockholm : 959 miles
10.1 million inhabitants / Average salary: $4,684 per month
Literacy rate: 100% / Life expectancy: 82 years
Spoken language : Swedish
● Swedish is spoken by the majority of the population, although Sami is spoken in the northern regions.
● More than 75% of Swedes are Evangelical Lutherans, however, a minority report attending religious services.
● The word “lagom” (roughly translated as “moderation in all things”) influences Swedish behavior. Excess is frowned upon.
Communication
● Swedes tend to speak in a soft and calm manner, they rarely raise their voices and do not show strong emotions in public. Many Swedes prefer to listen to others rather than speak above the group to be heard.
● Swedes are generally humble and grateful people.
● Parents expect their children to be allowed access to all places and to be treated with care and respect.
● Swedes do not rush into making major decisions.
● “Embarrassing silence” does not exist in Sweden.
Beliefs, Practices & Rituals
● Swedes celebrate traditional Christian festivals.
● Festivals in the middle of summer are of great importance (celebration of the summer solstice).
● The evening of April 30 and the day of May 1 are a time of celebration for some.
Eating habits
● Hospitality and formality at meals are important in Swedish culture.
● Marinated fish and vegetables, potatoes, cultured dairy products, crisp breads, fruit and various meats are the basis of most Swedish dishes.
Pregnancy and motherhood
● The presence of a Doula (a woman who accompanies a pregnant woman during pregnancy and after delivery) is not uncommon in Sweden. It is an important psychological and physical support for many pregnant women.
● There is a very important relationship between the midwife and the Swedish pregnant woman.
● In Sweden, if everything goes well, the pregnant woman will only have to go to a midwife. Moreover, they only do an ultrasound between the 18th and 20th week of pregnancy. Doing several ultrasounds and seeing several doctors could worry them.
● In Sweden, the term of pregnancy is 40 weeks.
● Before talking about epidurals, midwives offer alternative solutions such as laughing gas (lustgas), bathing or acupuncture.
● In Sweden, the stay in the maternity ward is short.
End-of-life care
● Lutherans share many of the same beliefs as Catholics. However, they do not confess to a priest or receive their last will and testament.
● The Book of Concord is an additional religious text that may be desired by the sick patient.
● Lutherans do not advocate active euthanasia, but they may refuse to accept aggressive treatment.
● Organ donation is left to the decision of the patient and family. Donor consent is presumed.
Examples
This section allows us to share experiences. Feel free to share yours with the community.
Sources :
Diversity toolkit – Cleveland Clinic