The Effectiveness of a Nurse-managed Minimal Smoking-cessation Intervention Among Hospitalized Patients with Cancer

Purpose/objectives: To determine the effectiveness of a nurse-managed minimal smoking-cessation intervention among hospitalized patients with cancer.

Design: Prospective, two-group, randomized clinical trial.

Setting: Urban, academic, tertiary-care setting.

Sample: 28 adult male and female smokers with a diagnosis of cancer who are hospitalized for a surgical procedure.

Methods: During hospitalization, subjects were assigned to a minimal smoking-cessation intervention group (n = 14) or a usual care group (n = 14). Verification of smoking status was performed at a clinic visit six weeks postintervention. Nonsmoking status was defined as self-report of zero cigarettes/day during the prior week and confirmed by saliva cotinine analysis.

Main Research Variables: One-time, Inpatient, nurse-managed, minimal smoking-cessation intervention, self-reported smoking status, and saliva cotinine level of < or = 14 ng/ml.

Findings: Upon hospital admission, 64% of the intervention group and 71% of the usual care group reported their intention to quit smoking. At six weeks postintervention, only 21% and 14% of the intervention and usual care group, respectively, were classified as abstinent from smoking. More than 90% of the intervention group members who resumed smoking did so within first week of discharge.

Implications For Nursing Practice: A more intensive intervention may be necessary to assist hospitalized surgical patients in achieving smoking cessation. Additional contact prior to discharge or within the first few days postdischarge may be necessary to reinforce strategies for remaining abstinent.