76. For the Patient Who Has Recently Quit (Continued)
Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence: 2008 Update
Text version of slide presentation.
Addressing problems encountered by former smokers
A patient who previously smoked might identify a problem that negatively affects health or quality of life. Specific problems likely to be reported by former smokers and potential responses follow:
Problems |
Responses |
Lack of support for cessation |
- Schedule follow-up visits or telephone calls with the patient.
- Urge the patient to call the national quitline network (1-800-QUIT-NOW) or other local quitline.
- Help the patient identify sources of support within his or her environment.
- Refer the patient to an appropriate organization that offers counseling or support.
|
Negative mood or depression |
- If significant, provide counseling, prescribe appropriate medication, or refer the patient to a specialist.
|
Strong or prolonged withdrawal symptoms |
- If the patient reports prolonged craving or other withdrawal symptoms, consider extending the use of an approved medication or adding/combining medications to reduce strong withdrawal symptoms.
|
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