NURS FPX 4025 Assessment 3

NURS FPX 4025 Assessment 3

Student Name

Capella University

NURS-FPX4025 Research and Evidence-Based Decision Making

Prof. Name:

Date

The Effectiveness of Smoking Cessation Programs for COPD Patients: A Comparison of Structured Programs vs. Standard Counseling

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition primarily caused by smoking. It leads to significant health issues such as difficulty breathing, chronic coughing, and frequent respiratory infections. Despite smoking being the leading cause of COPD, quitting is a challenging process for many individuals. COPD remains one of the top causes of death in the United States, with around 16 million adults affected (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024). Quitting smoking can slow disease progression and enhance overall health, but patients often face substantial barriers like nicotine addiction, lack of support, and stress. This article explores the effectiveness of structured smoking cessation programs compared to standard counseling for COPD patients. The goal is to determine which method is more effective in supporting smoking cessation and improving lung health over a six-month period.

Understanding COPD and the Need for Smoking Cessation

COPD is a chronic lung disease that results in impaired breathing. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, chronic coughing, and an increased frequency of lung infections. If left unmanaged, COPD can lead to more severe complications, such as frequent hospitalizations, heart issues, and respiratory failure. The primary strategy to slow the progression of COPD is smoking cessation. However, quitting smoking is often difficult for many individuals due to addiction, lack of support, and stress (American Lung Association [ALA], 2024). Furthermore, populations such as the elderly, low-income groups, and those with limited access to healthcare face additional challenges. These individuals often struggle with financial barriers, making it difficult for them to afford medications, doctor visits, and other necessary treatments (Alupo et al., 2024). Inadequate healthcare access, especially in rural areas, and the inability to afford medications like inhalers or oxygen exacerbates the condition, leading to more complications. Addressing these issues through smoking cessation programs and regular healthcare visits can greatly reduce these risks and improve outcomes (Wang et al., 2024). Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients, ensuring they receive the necessary care to manage their condition effectively.

Researching Smoking Cessation Methods for COPD Patients

Effective smoking cessation is crucial for slowing the progression of COPD and improving patients’ quality of life. However, many COPD patients struggle to quit smoking due to various barriers. Therefore, a focused research question is necessary to identify the most effective methods for overcoming these challenges (Gosak et al., 2024). Using the PICO(T) framework, the research question is: In adult patients diagnosed with COPD (P), how does a structured smoking cessation program incorporating behavioral counseling and pharmacotherapy (I), compared to standard smoking cessation counseling (C), impact smoking cessation rates and pulmonary function (O) within six months (T)?

Breakdown of the PICO(T) Criteria

This research question aims to evaluate how structured cessation programs support COPD patients in quitting smoking and improving lung health. By comparing these programs with standard counseling, the study aims to provide valuable insights into the most effective approaches to COPD care.

Conducting a Literature Search on Smoking Cessation for COPD

A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather evidence on smoking cessation interventions for COPD patients. The search utilized several academic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, to ensure a diverse range of high-quality sources. Key terms like “COPD,” “smoking cessation,” “nicotine replacement therapy,” “behavioral counseling,” “pharmacotherapy,” and “pulmonary rehabilitation” were used. Boolean operators (AND, OR) helped to narrow down the results to studies specifically addressing smoking cessation in COPD patients, rather than general tobacco cessation.

The search results were filtered using the CRAAP criteria (Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose) to assess the credibility of the sources. Peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses from reputable organizations such as the CDC and ALA were prioritized. This systematic approach ensured that only reliable, evidence-based studies were included, helping to inform clinical practice in COPD management.

Relevant Articles on Smoking Cessation for COPD

Several articles provide compelling evidence on the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions for COPD patients. Wang et al. (2024) conducted a meta-analysis exploring the impact of smoking cessation on COPD progression. The study found that individuals who quit smoking experienced significant improvements in lung function (FEV1% improved by 6.72), walking ability (6-MWT increased by 64.46), and oxygen levels (1.96 higher). Quitting smoking also reduced the risk of death (RR = 0.75), underscoring the importance of structured smoking cessation programs.

Han et al. (2023) examined the effectiveness of structured cessation programs integrating behavioral counseling, pharmacotherapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Their randomized controlled trial (RCT) revealed that combining nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) with cognitive-behavioral interventions resulted in higher quit rates than standard counseling. Lastly, Fu et al. (2022) highlighted the importance of evidence-based practice models, such as the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice (JHNEBP) model, in supporting the implementation of structured smoking cessation interventions. Their study found that these programs led to improved pulmonary function and slowed COPD progression.

Analyzing Evidence Supporting Structured Smoking Cessation Programs

The evidence strongly supports the use of structured smoking cessation programs involving behavioral counseling and pharmacotherapy. Wang et al. (2024) demonstrated that smoking cessation led to significant improvements in lung function, walking ability, and oxygen levels, as well as a reduction in mortality risk. Han et al. (2023) showed that combining NRT with cognitive-behavioral therapy resulted in higher quit rates compared to standard counseling. Additionally, Fu et al. (2022) emphasized the importance of integrating evidence-based practices in clinical settings to enhance smoking cessation outcomes. These findings collectively confirm that structured smoking cessation programs are more effective in improving COPD management than standard counseling.

Conclusion: The Importance of Smoking Cessation for COPD Patients

Quitting smoking is crucial for individuals with COPD, as it helps slow disease progression and improves lung function. Structured smoking cessation programs, which offer a combination of behavioral counseling and pharmacotherapy, have been shown to be more effective than standard counseling. These programs lead to better long-term health outcomes, including improved lung function and reduced hospitalizations. Healthcare providers, especially nurses, can play a key role in supporting patients through these programs, improving their quality of life, and reducing the burden of COPD.

References

Alupo, P., Baluku, J., Bongomin, F., Siddharthan, T., Katagira, W., Ddungu, A., Hurst, J. R., Boven, van, Worodria, W., & Kirenga, B. J. (2024). Overcoming challenges of managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in low- and middle-income countries. Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1080/17476348.2024.2398639

American Lung Association (ALA). (2024). Learn about COPD | American Lung Association. Lung.org; American Lung Association. https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/learn-about-copd

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2024, June 12). COPD. Chronic Disease Indicators. https://www.cdc.gov/cdi/indicator-definitions/chronic-obstructive-pulmonary-disease.html

Fu, Y., Chapman, E. J., Boland, A. C., & Bennett, M. I. (2022). Evidence-based management approaches for patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): A practice review. Palliative Medicine, 36(5), 770–782. https://doi.org/10.1177/02692163221079697

NURS FPX 4025 Assessment 3

Gosak, L., Štiglic, G., Pruinelli, L., & Vrbnjak, D. (2024). PICOT questions and search strategies formulation: A novel approach using artificial intelligence automation. Journal of Nursing Scholarship. https://doi.org/10.1111/jnu.13036

Han, M. K., Fu, Y., Ji, Q., Duan, X., & Fang, X. (2023). The effectiveness of theory-based smoking cessation interventions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A meta-analysis. BMC Public Health, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-16441-w

Hu, Y., Xie, J., Chang, X., Chen, J., Wang, W., Zhang, L., Zhong, R., Chen, O., Yu, X., & Zou, Y. (2021). Characteristics and predictors of abstinence among smokers of a smoking cessation clinic in Hunan China. Frontiers in Public Health, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.615817

Wang, Z., Qiu, Y., Ji, X., & Dong, L. (2024). Effects of smoking cessation on individuals with COPD: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Public Health, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1433269