No-To-Nicotine: Developing and Evaluating a Smoking and Vaping Cessation Module for Pharmacy Students

Objective

With vaping emerging as a growing public health concern, pharmacists’ training needs to address both smoking and vaping cessation. Student pharmacists, as future health professionals, require training that reflects current clinical guidelines and incorporates behavior change support techniques. This study aimed to develop and evaluate an educational module that addressed key knowledge and skill gaps related to smoking and vaping practices among student pharmacists.

Methods

A pedagogical module, No-to-Nicotine, was implemented with second-year undergraduate student pharmacists at The University of Sydney. The module consisted of 2 lectures on smoking and vaping and a 2.5-h interactive workshop to encourage active learning through the application of content in practical activities. A pre-post module questionnaire was used to assess potential changes in knowledge and attitude scores.

Results

There was a significant increase in knowledge (premean total knowledge score: 18.9 ± 5.6; postmean total knowledge score: 25.4 ± 5.0; p <.001), demonstrating an improved understanding of smoking and vaping. Attitudinal shifts suggested greater awareness of the pharmacist’s role in nicotine dependence management. Students' feedback reinforced the module’s relevance and applicability to future pharmacy practice.

Conclusion

An educational module with underlying pedagogical principles for student pharmacists can empower their roles in smoking and vaping cessation in professional practice. Incorporating knowledge and skills relevant to current practices in smoking and vaping services is essential in pharmacy curricula.