Date of Conferral

2015

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Victoria Omuson

Abstract

The incidence of smoking among mentally ill people is very high. Smokers have a 50%, rate of mental illness diagnosis compared with 23% rate for general population. To address this problem, the purpose of this project was to plan a smoking cessation program for patients in a mental health facility. The theoretical foundation for this project was based on the theory of planned behavior, which identifies the predictive nature of smoking and the benefits that can be derived from implementing a systematic approach for change. The project question examined the effectiveness of smoking cessation program using educational support, pharmacological strategies, and bi-weekly meetings to help patients in a mental health hospital to decrease smoking behavior. The project design was based on use of smoking questionnaires, the Hooked on Nicotine Checklist (HONC), effective pharmacological strategies, educational support, and counseling treatments to evaluate symptoms of dependency. The key results of this project included the creation of a plan that could foster reduction in illness, improved quality of life, and reduced costs related to the onset of major illness in this vulnerable population. This data collection process focused on a qualitative design in which selected professionals were asked to review the materials and answer questions. This project could increase awareness of the issue of smoking; in addition, this project could equip nurses with the tools to deliver evidence based interventions for tobacco dependence that may significantly reduce tobacco use. This project has the implications for positive social change through its potential to improve the health of people with mental illnesses. It also creates a safe and healthy environment in mental health facilities for patients who do not smoke.

Download

Share

 
COinS