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Can Quitting Smoking Transform Your Health?
Published: Nov 10, 2023
Understanding the importance of smoking cessation can be life-changing. This article breaks down the essentials of managing smoking cessation for better health.
The Clinician's Role
Clinicians play a crucial part in helping individuals quit smoking by documenting smoking status and offering advice and treatment. The 5A’s approach—Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange—is a structured way to guide patients through quitting. Modifications like the AAR method simplify this by focusing on asking, assisting, and referring.
The 5A's Approach Explained
The 5A’s method starts with asking about tobacco use and documenting the patient’s smoking status. Next, clinicians should advise cessation and assess the patient’s readiness to quit using models like the 'Stages of Change'. Finally, they assist in setting a quit date and arranging follow-ups to ensure long-term success.
Handling Relapse
Relapse is common, but it’s crucial to maintain follow-up care for several years. Regular check-ins can address problems, assess medication use, and provide relapse prevention strategies. This ongoing support increases the likelihood of sustained smoking cessation.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s a structured method for smoking cessation: Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, Arrange.
Clinicians document smoking status, advise quitting, offer treatment, and follow-up.
Continue follow-ups and provide support to prevent further relapses.
Yes, relapse is common and ongoing support is important.
Key Takeaways
Effective smoking cessation requires structured support and follow-ups.
References
- Stead LF, Buitrago D, Preciado N, et al. Physician advice for smoking cessation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2013; :CD000165.
- 2008 PHS Guideline Update Panel, Liaisons, and Staff. Treating tobacco use and dependence: 2008 update U.S. Public Health Service Clinical Practice Guideline.
- Barnes J, McRobbie H, Dong CY, et al. Hypnotherapy for smoking cessation. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2019; 6:CD001008.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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