Name of the Procedure:

Smoking and Tobacco Use Cessation Counseling Visit; Intensive, Greater than 10 Minutes

Summary

This is a counseling session specifically focused on helping individuals quit smoking or using tobacco products. The session lasts more than 10 minutes and is designed to provide in-depth support and resources to assist in tobacco cessation.

Purpose

The counseling session addresses nicotine addiction and the challenge of quitting tobacco use. The goal is to equip the patient with strategies, support, and resources to successfully quit smoking and improve overall health.

Indications

• Chronic smokers or tobacco users.
• Individuals experiencing health issues attributed to tobacco use.
• Patients who have expressed a desire to quit smoking.
• Those who have previously attempted to quit but relapsed.

Preparation

• No specific preparation is required.
• Patients may be asked to reflect on their smoking habits and readiness to quit.
• Bringing a list of current medications can be helpful.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The healthcare provider assesses the patient's smoking history, habits, and readiness to quit.
2. Discussion: Explanation of the health risks of continued tobacco use and the benefits of quitting.
3. Customized Plan: Development of a personalized cessation plan, which may include behavioral strategies, setting a quit date, and identifying potential triggers.
4. Support: Provision of resources such as support groups, hotlines, or mobile apps and discussion of medications or nicotine replacement therapies if suitable.
5. Follow-Up Plan: Scheduling follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust the cessation plan as needed.

Duration

Typically, the session lasts longer than 10 minutes, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes depending on the patient's needs.

Setting

Usually conducted in an outpatient clinic or a doctor's office.

Personnel

The session is usually led by a primary care physician, nurse, or a trained smoking cessation counselor.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal to no physical risks.
• Emotional or psychological challenges as the patient deals with addiction.
• Possible withdrawal symptoms which can be managed with appropriate support.

Benefits

• Improved overall health and decreased risk of tobacco-related diseases.
• Enhanced quality of life.
• Increased life expectancy.
• Benefits often begin shortly after cessation and continue with long-term abstinence.

Recovery

• No physical recovery required.
• Psychological support may be needed to cope with nicotine withdrawal.

• Regular follow-up sessions recommended to provide ongoing support.

  Alternatives

• Self-led quitting using over-the-counter nicotine replacement products.
• Group cessation programs.
• Prescription medications such as varenicline or bupropion.
• Online or telephonic counseling services.
• Hypnosis or acupuncture, though they may have varying success rates.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience a sense of relief from getting professional help.
• Anxiety or stress related to quitting can occur, which will be addressed during counseling.
• No physical pain, but emotional and behavioral challenges are anticipated.
• Support will be provided to manage withdrawal symptoms and maintain motivation.