Comparative cross-sectional study of knowledge, attitudes and perceptions among mental health and ward nursing staff towards smoking

Aim The aim of the study was twofold: to estimate smoking prevalence among nurses and to compare their knowledge, perceptions and attitudes towards smoking. Background Given the critical role nurses have in the process of patients' smoking cessation both as counsellors and behavioural models, data are needed on their smoking rates and behaviour. Design A cross sectional, comparative study was conducted. Methods A convenience sample of 847 nurses working in various psychiatric and public hospitals in Northern Greece participated in the study. Data were collected between April and June 2020 using a battery of questionnaires. Results Mental health nurses were less likely to consider quitting smoking within the next 6 months (P < 0.001), despite the fact that they reported higher levels of the importance of stop smoking compared to ward nurses (P < 0.05). However, ward nurses were more likely to quit smoking because of the cost of cigarettes (P = 0.024) and for personal reasons (P = 0.040). Conclusion Prevalence of smoking in nurses is high. Training and educational programmes are needed to develop the appropriate culture of health promotion among nurses, thus provide a more active support to patients who smoke.