Tobacco dependency pragmatic guide
Evidence-based guide for healthcare professionals who want to do better in treating tobacco dependency
Tobacco dependency is a long-term relapsing condition that usually starts in childhood
This tobacco dependency pragmatic guide is a practical, immediately implementable, evidence-based framework to enable healthcare professionals to routinely identify smokers, encourage a quit attempt and support that quit attempt within the real-world context of their own professional sphere.
Who is this guide for?
Any health professional working with patients or clients who wants to do better in treating tobacco dependence and for policy and decision makers in the health care system responsible for improved value.
How this guide was developed?
An expert group of individuals with expertise in supporting smokers to quit in primary, community, acute physical and mental health settings, and in tobacco dependence research, teaching, public health and policy was convened to provide evidence and opinion on treating tobacco dependence.
Expired carbon monoxide testing
- PCRU Article: Why a carbon monoxide test is an essential part of a GP and practice nurse's kit
- The expired carbon monoxide CO test guidance for health professionals - Guidance on resumption of CO testing following COVID-19
Become a quit catalyst
Very Brief Advice (VBA) is a simple and powerful approach designed to be delivered by any healthcare professional
Assessment of tobacco use
The best way of determining smoking status is to ask people: “Do you smoke?”
Supporting a quit attempt
Completing the VBA will tell you your patient’s self-reported tobacco status – an important first step.
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Date for review: 26th September 2025
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