Visitors

Most people will want to follow the rules. Visitors who are found to be in violation, should be reminded of the policy. This can be done either verbally or non-verbally by distributing a card to violators that states the policy and asks for their cooperation. On the flip side the card identifies resources, such as the NC Quitline, for assistance in quitting.

Change Areas Where Tobacco Users Once Congregated – Once the tobacco-free campus wide policy is implemented, all smoking areas should be dismantled and all cigarette disposal receptacles should be removed. In some cases, you may find that certain areas, such as benches near the main entrance to the hospital, continue to attract smokers, regardless of the signage posted. Some hospitals have removed such benches, even if they are widely used. Once people have adapted to the new policy (perhaps a year after implementation) these benches can be returned.

• Ensuring Best Practice Signage -- Ensuring that best practice signage guidelines are followed will help compliance with visitors. UNC Hospitals strategically chose to place their signage above a surveilance camera sign.
• Offer A One Time Dose Of Nicotine Replacement Therapy – Visitors should be informed of the availability of one-day supplies of nicotine replacement therapy to help them get through their hospital visit without using tobacco.
• Offer Emergency Kits to visitors -- UNC Hospitals has designed emergency kits to help visitors and patients comply with the policy. The kit includes a card that informs one of where the NRT patch and gum can be purchased at the hospital. Some hospitals have decided to offer one day quantities of the NRT patch and gum at no cost. Other materials include tobacco quitting resources such as information on the NC Quitline (1-800-784-8669). It also contains a stress ball that states how much money is saved by quitting, gum, mints, and a copy of the tobacco Starting The Conversation tool.

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