Training RNs and APNs to treat tobacco users: A preliminary study

Background: RNs and APNs have an extensive reach into the smoking population and can apply evidence-based treatments to facilitate tobacco cessation. Training in implementing the 2008 Clinical Practice Guideline for Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence is seldom offered, and little is known about the long-term effects of brief training on behaviors and attitudes. The purpose of this preliminary study was to examine the impact of a brief tobacco use treatment training program on RNs' and APNs' tobacco use treatment behaviors pre-training compared to 6-12 months afterwards and comparisons pre-, post- and 6-12 month follow-up of their attitudes toward treating tobacco users. Method: We provided evidence-based training program to RNs and APNs in Arkansas. Participants were assessed at: pre-training, post-training, and 6-12 months post-training. Outcomes included tobacco use treatment behaviors and attitudes. Items were assessed on an 11-point discrete analog 0-10 scale (0= “not at all;” 10= “most possible”). Paired-sample t-tests compared behaviors pre-training and 6-12 month post-training. Repeated measures ANOVA compared attitudes at pre-, post-, and 6-12 month post-training. Results: Sixty-seven RNs and APNs completed training and pre-, post-, and six-twelve-month follow-up questionnaires and demonstrated increases in positive attitudes, behaviors and referrals (p < .05) long-term. Conclusions: These preliminary results indicate that training program participation is associated with long-term changes in RNs' and APNs' behaviors and attitudes. RNs and APNs, with their extensive reach into the patient population can assist with evidence-based treatments that have a high impact resulting in decreases in mortality and morbidity and healthcare costs.