Smoking Cessation Counselling in the Hospitals: Problems and Solutions

Abstract

Studies related to smoking cessation counseling in hospitalized patients are increasing. Smokers hospitalized for a variety of reasons either temporarily stop or reduce the amount of smoking in the hospital. It is suggested that this period be utilized as an opportunity for smoking cessation intervention while in the hospital and followed up within one month by phone after discharge. Patients who are hospitalized due to a smoking-related illness are more prone to these attempts. The efficacy of drugs other than NRT (Nicotine replacement therapy) has not been proven. In our country, family physician departments can assume bedside cigarette counseling. However, problems such as restructuring of hospital automation systems, solving drug procurement and reimbursement, setting up automated calling systems and integrating with smoking cessation hotline should be solved.