Let's make every day smoke-free

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Smoking cessation in the perioperative period

13 March 2024 (Last updated: 13 Mar 2024 09:33) by Centre for Perioperative Care

Stopping smoking really is the best thing anyone can do for their health and to reduce the risk of a bad result after surgery.

The World Health Organization showed that stopping smoking reduces the risk of complications following surgery by 50%.

Stopping smoking improves the blood supply to tissues, so wounds heal better, with fewer infections and lungs work better, with far less need for intensive care. Within hours, the blood is better at carrying oxygen.

Each craving only lasts 90 seconds. The main withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability, are reducing by two weeks. There are many options for help, with psychological support, apps, alternative activities, exercise, nicotine replacement options and websites with personalised coaching.

You can do it!

Supporting patients to stop smoking

Below you will find tools and links to resources to help your patients quit smoking and prepare them for surgery.

Quit smoking - the perioperative care benefits

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