Fig. 1.

Guideline algorithm for smoking cessation brief assessment and counseling. This algorithm was used in training intake clinicians to implement the key recommendations of the AHRQ Smoking Cessation Guideline at the time of each visit. Patients were provided with free nicotine replacement therapy and telephone counseling if they were willing to set a quit date within 30 days. Eligibility criteria for the nicotine patch include the following: smokes at least 10 cigarettes per day, has not experienced myocardial infarction or unstable angina within past month, and has received physician approval if pregnant. (Reprinted with permission from Preventive Medicine © 2002.)