A new tobacco dependency service, which went live for acute inpatients at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust in September, is helping patients on their journey to quit smoking and chewing tobacco. Tobacco Dependency Adviser, Sruthi Nair, describes her role and how she supports patients to overcome their tobacco dependency.
“Every day I start by reviewing the patient schedules and medical histories so I know who’ll I’ll be counselling. I make sure I keep up to date with all the relevant educational materials and the latest smoking and chewing tobacco cessation techniques so that I can offer the best support.
“I find that there are different tobacco trends in different areas of West Yorkshire so it’s helpful to look at developing resources to curtail specific tobacco use, for example, chewing tobacco such as dry or moist snuff.”
One size doesn’t fit all
Establishing a rapport and building trust helps to put patients at ease and get a better understanding of individual struggles and motivations to quit.
Sruthi says: “By asking questions about what triggers their smoking cravings the most and developing strategies to overcome them we can guide patients through the process of creating personalised tobacco cessation plans.”
Not everyone is ready to quit straight away explains Sruthi.
“Through storytelling, I try to instil hope and motivation by talking about the Community Cessation Service and positive experiences from those who have quit. This helps to evoke a sense of community and encouragement as they navigate their own journey towards a smoke-free life. No-one is alone.
“Often I’ll hear: “it's too late for me to quit now” and “I can’t think about quitting at the moment because of my current situation”. By sharing success stories from those who have successfully quit smoking or chewing tobacco, I emphasise that it’s possible for everyone and that it’s never too late.
“Recently, I supported a 70-year-old veteran who really appreciated the service and for making him realise that he’d wanted to make the decision to quit for a long time. I think people realise they need to quit or change certain behaviour when they are having a critical moment. But mostly it’s about willpower and the need to feel heard, supported and provided with the necessary resources, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRTs). It’s important that the support continues even after discharge through community pharmacies.”
Managing cravings
Sharing coping mechanisms and strategies for managing cravings is important.
Sruthi says: “Through discussions and hearing from other people, patients learn about themselves gaining a sense of solidarity, realising that they are not alone in their battle. Support from families and partners is important too. Family members who engage and help loved ones on their journey help to give more strength to patients - and us as providers – knowing that there is constant support even at home.
After each counselling session, Sruthi updates patient files and records progress, providing essential information for the healthcare team and ensuring continuity of care.
“Follow-up sessions help to track progress, address any challenges patients may face, and offer ongoing support. It is crucial to maintain regular communication and monitor patient journeys even after their stay in the inpatient wards.
“Being a Tobacco Dependency Advisor is a rewarding and a challenging role,” says Sruthi. “I strive to empower individuals to overcome their tobacco dependence and lead healthier lives by having a holistic approach.
“It’s a journey filled with ups and downs. But with the right guidance and support, I believe anyone can overcome tobacco dependency and embrace a tobacco-free future.
With thanks to Manley Dupreez, Patient Service Manager and all the Airedale team for delivering the new service.