Intensive therapy unit nurses' knowledge, attitude and self reported behaviour related to smoking

Abstract

The aim of this descriptive survey was to explore the smoking habits of a cohort of Maltese Staff Nurses working in the only Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU) on the island. The knowledge, attitudes and behaviours related to smoking were explored using quantitative research through self administered questionnaires amongst 48 participants. A 100% response rate was achieved. The findings support previous trends both locally and internationally. The mean age of the participants was 28 years. The majority of participants had been working in the nursing profession between two and five years. Fifty two per cent of participants were current smokers of whom 29% of the total population were daily smokers. Daily smoking was found to be more common in males compared to females. Amongst the 25 current smokers, 11 participants stated that their smoking habit increased while working in ITU. Stress was the most commonly cited reason given by the 11 participants why they increased their smoking habits while working in ITU. Participants' own will was the most frequently mentioned intervention to help them stop smoking, should they decide to do so. All participants agreed that smoking is harmful to health. The majority of participants agreed that health professionals should routinely advise patients who smoke to avoid smoking close to children and that tobacco sale to children and adolescents should be banned. Most of the participants agreed that health professionals serve as role models for their patients and the public and that they should set a good example by not smoking. A number of recommendations, in the light of the findings, were drawn up so as to provide groundwork for future practice, further research and public health education. The fact that this study made use of the whole population of ITU nurses is considered as a strength, which helped in exploring this field of study.