If motivation to quit is high,set a definite date to do so. Have the patient choose a significant date within 2 weeks, e.g., anniversary, birthday, holiday. Solicit support of spouse, family, and friends. For hospitalized patients who can't smoke and who want to quit, support them in not resuming tobacco use at discharge. Create an individualized plan.
Most patients quit 'cold turkey.
Relapse correlates with amount and duration of tobacco use. Self-help materials, behavior modification counseling, and psychosocial support should be provided according to a patient's needs. Initiate nurse phone counseling and support. Total abstinence in the two weeks after quitting is predictive of long-term abstinence. For relapse, re-assess motivation and quit plan.