View Document

Many smokers who relapse do so because they fail to plan. Often, patients think that they can simply “make” themselves quit and do not avail themselves of the many proven behavior change programs provided by various sources. Furthermore, most smokers do not use a cessation medication or, if they do, they use it incorrectly. Generally speaking, patients significantly under-dose or stop pharmacologic therapy too soon.

The 3-Step Protocol for Clinicians provides clinicians with a simple guide to help relapsed smokers regain abstinence by encouraging them to learn from their prior experiences rather than use those experiences as proof that they cannot quit. To underscore this perspective, inform patients that the best way to quit smoking is to combine a behavior change program with a cessation medication. The 3-step protocol will help clinicians provide this information in an efficient, effective manner for patients who are ready to try again

Smoking Cessation Leadership Center

Edit