Teaching smoking cessation knowledge to second-year undergraduates

Abstract

Positive smoking cessation knowledge changes can be achieved through teaching. It is not known if, or how, increases in knowledge will contribute to actual interventions in practice. It is suggested that interventions to support medical undergraduates to develop the knowledge and skills required to support patients effectively in stopping smoking need to be part of an integrated programme of teaching clinical knowledge, communication and clinical skills, coupled with opportunities to practise in simulated situations.

Notes

Notes on contributors

JENNIFER CLELAND is a Faculty Co-ordinator of Medical Interviewing and Communication and GPIAG Clinical Lecturer in the Department of General Practice and Primary Care, where her research interest is respiratory disease in primary care.

GILLIAN LEE was Acting Manager, Lifestyle Topics, Health Promotions, NHS Grampian, with responsibility for training in smoking cessation and awareness to other healthcare professionals.

JAMES FRIEND is Emeritus Professor, Department of Public Health, University of Aberdeen and a former Consultant Physician in Thoracic Medicine, Grampian University Hospitals Trust.

LEISL OSMAN is a Research Fellow, Chest Clinic, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Grampian Universities Hospital Trust.