Attitudes toward nicotine dependence among chemical dependence unit staff--before and after a smoking cessation trial

J Subst Abuse Treat. 1995 Jul-Aug;12(4):247-52. doi: 10.1016/0740-5472(95)00024-y.

Abstract

As a part of a prospective study to assess the effect of nicotine dependence treatment among smokers undergoing inpatient treatment for other addictions, we surveyed the treatment staff about their attitudes toward smoking. The study was carried out in the Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Unit (ADDU), an inpatient addictions' treatment unit at Mayo Clinic. The subjects for this report were the ADDU staff. The attitude survey used was modified from that of Bobo and Gilchrist, and the survey was conducted for all staff before and after the prospective intervention study. Compared with the pre-study survey, the post-study survey indicated more staff thought nicotine dependence treatment should be provided to all smokers (p = 0.025). The percentage who thought that nicotine dependence treatment should be encouraged at the time of admission to the unit also increased (p = 0.005). Overall, staff attitudes toward nicotine dependence treatment changed toward more acceptance. While the intervention trial likely had an effect, other factors could also have played a role in this apparent change in staff attitude.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / psychology
  • Alcoholism / rehabilitation
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Organizational Policy
  • Patient Care Team*
  • Smoking / adverse effects
  • Smoking / psychology*
  • Smoking Cessation / psychology*
  • Substance Abuse Treatment Centers*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / rehabilitation
  • Treatment Outcome