GP Training - Catalogue

This is the first of four modules which address smoking cessation by
creating conversations with patients who smoke. This module provides
an update on the prevalence of the problem and offers some new
insights into heritability, which may explain why some people become
addicted to smoking. Co-morbidities associated with smoking are
introduced in a case study about Ray, a 42-year old man, overweight
and with a persistent cough.

• Recognise the demographics of smokers
• Discuss the morbidity and mortality attributable to smoking among your patients
• Understand the science of addiction
• Recognise the signs of dependence and withdrawal.

This second module describes the indications, the mechanisms of
action and efficacy of pharmacotherapy in smoking cessation.
Smoking cessation may require a combination of counselling and
pharmacotherapy. Learn how to select appropriate pharmacotherapies
for patients wanting to quit. A case-study introduces Theresa, a 35-year
old woman, a little overweight, with hypertension. A conversation with
her GP highlights the difficulty she has experienced in quitting smoking
and introduces the various types of pharmacotherapy available.

• Describe the indications for using pharmacotherapy in smoking cessation
• Understand the mechanisms of action of the pharmacological agents used
• Describe the efficacy of pharmacotherapy in smoking cessation
• Select appropriate pharmacotherapy for patients wanting to quit.

This module focuses on the health and life expectancy benefits of
quitting. The case for quitting is presented. Tips and advice for patients
 such as ‘cue extinguishment’ are provided, as well as how to cope with
withdrawal symptoms. The case study focuses on Ray, and the
GP/patient conversation about his attempts to quit smoking.

• Discuss with patients the benefits of quitting smoking in terms of improvements in health and life expectancy
• Recognise the important role that GPs play in smoking cessation
• Offer patients tips on how to improve their chances of succeeding
• Help patients cope with withdrawal symptoms.

This fourth module addresses barriers to the implementation of
smoking cessation interventions such as co-morbid mental illness
and/or drug or alcohol addiction among smokers. The role of various
healthcare professionals can play in the smoking cessation process is
outlined. The case study Theresa attends a 1-month follow-up with her
GP after starting varenicline.

• Address some of the barriers to smoking cessation
• Advise patients on how to adopt coping strategies to avoid relapses
• Recognise the role that GPs, practice nurses and community pharmacists can play in smoking cessation.