Smoking Cessation Strategies for Patients with COPD

Abstract

Smoking cessation remains the priority intervention for patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to slow progression of lung tissue damage, decrease symptoms, and enhance quality of life. This article highlights ways home healthcare clinicians can incorporate Prochaska's stages of change to individualize smoking cessation interventions for COPD patients. By assessing patients' readinessto- quit and implementing evidence-based teaching techniques, including motivational interviewing, home healthcare clinicians can identify specific strategies to promote smoking cessation and enhance the health and quality of life for this population.