Smoking interventions within the hospital setting: A study of demand for smoking interventions and perceived efficacy in delivery of services

Issues addressed: This study was motivated by the current need for tobacco interventions for inpatients and nursing staff within the hospital setting. In particular, whether inpatients considered quitting while in hospital, if they expected assistance and/or requested help from ward nurses was investigated. In addition, it sought to establish whether nurses considered they had a role in tobacco intervention and if so, whether they felt adequately prepared. The willingness of nurses to participate in ongoing tobacco intervention education and the type of educational program preferences was also explored in relation to current smoking status. Methods: A cohort of 60 patients and 100 nursing personnel were surveyed in the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane. Results: Of 569 inpatients, 19 per cent were current smokers and 39 per cent of ward nurses smoked. Of inpatients, 57 per cent considered quitting tobacco during hospital admission but only 5 per cent requested assistance. Sixty per cent of inpatients did not expect any assistance from hospital staff. Although infrequently asked for assistance, 51 per cent of ward nurses saw a "definite" nursing role in tobacco intervention, with a further 30 per cent considering a "probable" role. Non-smokers were more likely to support a nursing role in tobacco intervention than nurses who smoke (