The Physical Therapist and Smoking Cessation

Abstract

Abstract Physical therapists can play a large role in addressing smoking and tobacco usage in their patients. Given the relationship they can develop with patients and the time spend with patients, they are well-positioned to discuss the sensitive issue of smoking cessation. This unit is designed to educate physical therapy students about the importance of smoking cessation for their clients and patients. The ultimate goal of this unit is to allow students to feel comfortable and confident in their abilities to discuss smoking and tobacco use in the clinical setting. This unit encompasses preclass assignments, a lecture, case examples, and laboratory activities. These experiences lead to both a written and practical examination. During lecture, students learn about the 5 A's and 5 R's of smoking cessation, medical management of smoking cessation, and barriers to smoking cessation. Working through challenging situations and the role of physical therapy is also addressed. During the laboratory session, students get the chance to practice and implement the techniques. Learning is then assessed through the written examination questions and the practical examination. While these materials are specifically designed for physical therapy students, they could be modified for other healthcare professionals such as nursing, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and health coaches.

Keywords

• Smoking
• Smoking Cessation
• Health Promotion
• Physical Therapy
• Risk Factor Reduction