Smoke free hospital
Tobacco smoking is one of the largest health concerns for our local community, and it remains the leading cause of preventable death and illness in Queensland. At Caboolture and Kilcoy Hospitals we aim to provide a healthy, smoke-free environment for the safety and comfort of all patients, visitors and staff.
All hospitals have a smoke free policy. The Queensland Tobacco Laws make it illegal to smoke on hospital grounds and within 5 meters of the campus boundary (this includes electronic cigarettes). Please note that you may receive a fine if you choose to smoke on hospital grounds.
Support to quit
When you come to hospital, you will be asked about smoking by various health professionals. If you’re finding it difficult not to smoke or are having strong urges to smoke, we encourage you to speak to your nurse, doctor or pharmacist for assistance.
Relieving urges to smoke
You can relieve urges and discomfort of nicotine withdrawal by using Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) such as a nicotine patch or nicotine gum. NRT is very safe, even if you continue to smoke while using them and is free for inpatients on our wards. Please ask your nurse, doctor or pharmacist to determine if these products are suitable for you. These products will:
- make you more comfortable – even if you don’t plan to quit smoking
- double your chance of success if you try to cut down or quit
- reduce anxiety
- improve trouble sleeping
- reduce restlessness.
Not ready to quit smoking?
Even if you do not wish to quit now, using a nicotine patch and/or gum will make you more comfortable during your admission by helping to manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
Further assistance
- Call Quitline 13 78 48 or visit http://www.quitnow.gov.au/
- Download the ‘My QuitBuddy’ app on your smart phone to track your progress
- Tobacco Laws in Queensland