Coshocton Hospital goes tobacco free July 1
COSHOCTON – As an organization dedicated to the health and well being of the communities it serves, Coshocton Hospital will join the majority of Ohio hospitals in becoming completely tobacco-free on all of its properties effective Wednesday, July 1. The tobacco-free status will apply to the hospital grounds, physician clinics, parking lots and all hospital-owned properties.
The hospital’s tobacco-free initiative is driven by its physicians, nurses and healthcare professionals, citing the fact that tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States.
“As healthcare professionals, we see firsthand the devastating effects of tobacco use,” said Ken Hall, certified respiratory therapist (CRT) and manager of Coshocton Hospital Respiratory Services. “With our dedication to the good health of our community, we simply can no longer endorse the use of tobacco products on our properties.”
While the plan to move to tobacco-free reflects decisions made at hospitals and physician offices nationwide, Coshocton Hospital physicians, nurses and support staff recognize the need to offer assistance to patients who are concerned about stopping tobacco use while they are in the hospital or emergency department. Patients are encouraged to discuss their tobacco use with the attending physician or nurse to receive information regarding the use of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) during their stay. In an emergency situation, the delivery of NRT medication may be delayed until the patient’s condition has been fully assessed and it is determined the medication can be used safely.
The hospital also encourages friends and family members to recognize this change when visiting hospital properties beginning July 1. When visitors leave the hospital grounds to use tobacco, they can leave a phone number with the nursing staff so they can be reached if the patient needs them to return.
“We appreciate the understanding of our patients and their family members as we implement this new policy on July 1,” said Hall. “As we proudly transition to a healthy, tobacco-free environment for the safety of our employees, patients and community members, we pledge to offer our compassion and understanding as our community adjusts to this important new policy.”
Category: Business
