This scoping review, published in BMC Nursing in November, was undertaken to identify the specific interventions delivered by nurses and the roles they play in smoking cessation interventions. The analysis of 53 articles highlights the critical role that nurses play in smoking cessation interventions for patients. Assessment (including of smoking status/history, nicotine dependence and motivation) was the most prevalent role undertaken by nurses. The most common smoking cessation interventions used by nurses were motivational interviewing and the 5As approach. Of the studies included in this review, the primary participants were patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
This review revealed that that only a small proportion of nurses were trained in smoking cessation interventions, with many lacking the necessary knowledge and skills to support patients in quitting smoking. Improving smoking cessation training for nurses is crucial to equip them with confidence and knowledge to deliver effective smoking cessation interventions for patients.
Quit Centre has developed online training for nurses working in primary health care to support the development of knowledge and skills to confidently provide smoking cessation care. Visit the Online Training page to access this training.