Smoking cessation readiness: are your patients ready to quit?

PURPOSE: To explore the assessment of patient readiness to receive smoking cessation interventions using the transtheoretical model (TTM) and the five stages of change; and to give the primary care provider an evidence-based toolkit to assist in evaluating for readiness and supporting the smoking cessation process. DATA SOURCES: Evidence-based literature, theoretical framework, and peer-reviewed articles.
CONCLUSIONS: Utilizing the TTM along with proper training and education of the provider and patient increases the probability that smoking cessation will occur. Combinations of pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical interventions are the most effective in smoking cessation. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Providers can be prepared at every patient visit to address the smoking cessation needs of all patients. The toolkit provided in this article will help facilitate evaluation of readiness and support of effective, long-term smoking cessation and reduce eventual smoking-related morbidities.