In a single-centre observational before-after study (n=31 parental smokers), a standardized \~15-minute tobacco-counselling intervention delivered during the paediatric ambulatory pathway significantly increased parental awareness of secondhand-smoke harms (median total score 34→46; p=0.0026). Item-level gains were greatest for perceived anaesthetic risk and misconceptions about tertiary/indirect exposure. Session acceptability was high, but self-reported behavioural change at 30 days was limited. The perioperative consultation is a feasible "teachable moment"; integration with visual aids, objective exposure measures, structured cessation referral and longitudinal follow-up should be considered to translate awareness into sustained exposure reduction.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
31
Each enrolled parent received a single, standardized counselling session (\~15 minutes) delivered in the ambulatory unit by a certified tobacco counsellor. The session followed a fixed script and covered: (1) types of tobacco smoke exposure (primary, secondary and tertiary), (2) health consequences for children with emphasis on perioperative respiratory and anaesthetic risks, (3) practical measures to reduce household exposure (smoke-free home/car rules, behavioural strategies), and (4) brief advice on initial cessation steps and referral options. Structured handouts and signposting to support services were offered when appropriate.
Michele Carella
Liège, Belgium
60-points score parental awareness
The primary outcome was change in parental awareness measured by a six-item questionnaire (each item scored 0-10; total range 0-60) administered at baseline (arrival), immediately after counselling, and at 30 days by telephone.
Time frame: 4 hours
Smoking changes
Self-reported changes in smoking behaviour at 30 days
Time frame: 30 days
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