Individualised Parent Counselling in Paediatric Practices for the Reduction of Second-Hand Smoke Exposure of their Children: A Feasibility Study

Aim: The aim of this study was to test the feasibility of a web-based programme provided by paediatric practices for counselling parents to reduce second-hand smoke exposure of their children. Methods: Accompanying persons of children were systematically screened concerning tobacco smoking at their home in 2 Swiss paediatric practices. They were invited for programme participation if they or their partners smoked at home regularly. The web-based programme provided at least 1 computer-tailored counselling letter. Upto 3 additional counselling letters could be requested online by the participants over a period of 3 months. The letters were tailored according to the indoor smoking behaviour of the parents and considered individual barriers and resources for the establishment of a smoke-free home. Additionally, further information and advice could be requested on the programme website. Feasibility indicators were the participation rate, programme use, and programme evaluation by the participants. Results: 3055 (82.3%) of 3712 accompanying persons of children in the paediatric practices were screened concerning tobacco smoking at their home. 96 (56.8%) of 169 eligible persons participated in the programme. 68 (70.8%) of the 96 programme participants could be reassessed at post assessment. 9 (15.0%) of 60 participants who provided a valid e-mail address requested more than one counselling letter. The counselling letters and the web-based programme were evaluated positively by the programme participants. Conclusion: Systematic screening combined with the provision of individually tailored counselling letters for parents to reduce second-hand smoke exposure of their children was feasible in paediatric practices. Possible strategies to increase the use and reach of the programme are discussed.