Occupational Health Nurses’ Self-Efficacy in Smoking Cessation Interventions: An Integrative Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background: Effective smoking cessation interventions (SCIs) are indicated, particularly among the working population, where a higher than expected prevalence of smoking continues. Occupational health nurses’ (OHN) self-efficacy can affect SCI but current scientific literature is limited. The purpose of this integrative literature review was to determine factors that affect OHN self-efficacy and motivation for providing SCI and to guide research needed to enhance SCI programs. Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted an integrative literature review. The strategy was an electronic data search of PubMed conducted between 2013 and 2018 and included peer-reviewed manuscripts written in English that addressed self-efficacy and its relationship to SCI. Findings: In total, 15 research articles met the inclusion criteria and two referred specifically to OHNs. Common themes revealed factors which positively and negatively influenced nurses’ self-efficacy, including training, academic preparation, as well as nurse attitudes and personal/social influence. Studies specific to OHNs identify self-efficacy as the most influential factor affecting nurse implementation of SCI. Organizational support and theory-based training are more effective in overcoming personal and social barriers affecting OHN self-efficacy. Conclusion/Application to Practice: The results of this review revealed attitude, innovation, perceived social influence, and self-efficacy were factors for nurses’ intention to implement SCI. Changes in the organizational environment supporting cessation programs and educational development, particularly theory-based training, should be further studied. Our findings suggest that designing programs utilizing these research findings to improve OHN self-efficacy could guide changes in clinical practice for motivating smokers to quit.