A nurse-managed smoking cessation program for hospitalized smokers

Objectives. This study evaluated a nurse-managed smoking cessation program for smokers hospitalized for a variety of conditions. Methods. Hospitalized patients who smoked prior to hospitalization and who were motivated to quit (n = 660) were randomized to intervention or usual-care groups and followed for the next year. The intervention included a meeting with the nurse-case manager; the use of a videotape, workbook, relaxation audiotape, and nicotine replacement therapy; and nurse-initiated phone contacts after discharge. Results. The 12-month confirmed cessation rates were 21% and 31% for, respectively, the usual-care and intervention groups (odds ratio = 1.7; 95% confidence interval = 1.1, 2.3). Conclusions. A nurse-managed smoking cessation intervention can significantly increase cessation rates for hospitalized patients.