Question

A client has entered a smoking cessation program to quit a two-pack-a-day cigarette habit. He tells the nurse that he has not smoked a cigarette for 3 weeks, but is afraid he is going to "slip up" and smoke because of current job pressures. What would be the most appropriate reply for the nurse to make in response to the client's comments?

1. "Don't worry about it. Everybody has difficulty quitting smoking, and you should expect to as well."
2. "If you increase your self-control, I am sure you will be able to avoid smoking."
3. "Try taking a couple of days of vacation to relieve the stress of your job."
4. "It is good that you can talk about your concerns. Try calling a friend when you want to smoke."

Answer 1

The most appropriate response from the nurse to the client worried about relapsing into smoking is to commend their ability to express concerns and suggest calling a friend when cravings arise, offering a supportive and practical solution.

Step-by-step explanation:

In response to the client's concerns about the possibility of relapsing into smoking due to job pressures, the most appropriate reply from the nurse would be option 4: "It is good that you can talk about your concerns. Try calling a friend when you want to smoke." This option supports the client's effort to quit smoking by encouraging communication and finding alternative ways to cope with stress, which is essential in the smoking cessation process. Moreover, it provides a practical suggestion that aligns with cognitive-behavioral strategies to manage cravings, such as seeking social support.

Smoking cessation is a difficult process, often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms like cravings and irritability. The psychological addiction to nicotine can be powerful, making it challenging to quit. However, the health benefits of quitting are substantial, including a reduced risk for various cancers, heart disease, and the positive impact on reducing secondhand smoke exposure for non-smokers. To maintain the client's motivation and progress, it's crucial to offer supportive and practical solutions that help manage the stress associated with quitting.