Comparative cross-sectional study of knowledge, attitudes and perceptions among mental health and ward nursing staff towards smoking.

ABSTRACT

AIM: The aim of the study was twofold to estimate smoking prevalence among nurses and to compare their knowledge, perceptions and attitudes towards smoking. BACKGROUND: Given the critical role nurses have in the process of patients' smoking cessation both as counsellors and behavioural models, data are needed on their smoking rates and behaviour. DESIGN: A cross sectional, comparative study was conducted. METHODS: A convenience sample of 847 nurses working in various psychiatric and public hospitals in Northern Greece participated in the study. Data were collected between April and June 2020 using a battery of questionnaires. RESULTS: Mental health nurses were less likely to consider quitting smoking within the next 6 months (P < 0.001), despite the fact that they reported higher levels of the importance of stop smoking compared to ward nurses (P < 0.05). However, ward nurses were more likely to quit smoking because of the cost of cigarettes (P = 0.024) and for personal reasons (P = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Prevalence of smoking in nurses is high. Training and educational programmes are needed to develop the appropriate culture of health promotion among nurses, thus provide a more active support to patients who smoke.