Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Schools of Nursing Tool Kit

A Call to Action for Nursing Leadership to Promote Smoke- and Tobacco-Free Schools of Nursing on Smoke- and Tobacco-Free Campuses Across the United States

Whereas tobacco use and exposure remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States;

Whereas the World Health Organization reports the future global tobacco epidemic is projected to see over 8 million deaths a year by 2030;

Whereas smoke- and tobacco-free polices can significantly reduce tobacco-related morbidity and mortality by preventing exposure to second-hand smoke and increasing quit rates;

Whereas the emergence of alternative tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, is increasing and pose additional health issues and concerns;

Whereas the majority of schools of nursing are on campuses that have not implemented smoke- and tobacco-free environments as monitored by the American for Nonsmokers’ Rights Foundation;

Whereas smoking and tobacco use among students and their lack of adequate knowledge about tobacco health effects and tobacco dependence treatment negatively impacts their ability to intervene with patients who use tobacco;

Be it resolved that the American Association of College of Nursing will strongly encourage schools of nursing to promote 100% smoke- and tobacco-free policies on their campuses to support a healthy working and living environment for all students, staff, and faculty.

And be it further resolved that deans in schools of nursing can provide leadership to advocate for and assist in the implementation of policies on college campuses that meet the American College Health Association goals for a smoke- and tobacco-free environment and smoking cessation support for all students.

Endorsed by the AACN Membership:  March 21, 2016