Monday, September 6, 2010
 
 
 

TOBACCO CESSATION


Patient Instruction Sheet

 

The Do’s and Don’ts

Quitting tobacco is a very difficult decision. The following recommendations are some suggestions to help you quit.

Do’s

  • Find out what triggers your tobacco use. Keep a journal of when and why you are smoking, for example, You just finished a meal and want one
  • Ask for help — healthcare providers such as nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and others can help you
  • Ask about tobacco cessation programs and ways to quit
  • Ask your healthcare provider about medications that may help and if they are right for you
  • Look for support and encouragement — join a program, see a counselor or gather family support
  • Avoid difficult situations while you are trying to quit smoking
  • Try to lower your stress level by doing things that you enjoy i.e., exercise, a craft or hobby. Begin to change your environment and your habits — avoid places where you usually smoke
  • Set a quit date — inform your family and friends of the date and ask for their support
  • The day before you quit, throw away ash trays, clean your home, get the inside of your car cleaned, wash your clothes
  • Save the money you would be spending on tobacco and treat yourself at different times for your success- get a massage, go out to dinner 

Don’t’s

  • Be afraid to talk about your feelings or fears of not being able to quit Smoke while using nicotine patch or gum
  • Miss your healthcare appointments
  • Get yourself into stressful or difficult situations, which can lead you to smoke
  • Drink alcohol while you are trying to quit smoking Attend functions where you will be with people who are smoking.
  • Give up — if you fail, try again. Practice makes perfect!