Cigarettes contain nicotine, a highly addictive drug. While nicotine has definite physiological effects on smokers, smokers also experience psychological effects related to smoking. The combination of physiological and psychological effects makes it difficult for smokers to quit.

Nicotine comes from the tobacco plant and works by activating the reward pathways in the brain. Nicotine raises dopamine levels. Dopamine increases the desire to consume a particular drug.

Nicotine dependence causes psychological withdrawal symptoms in smokers. Symptoms include depressed mood, irritability, anxiety and concentration difficulties.

Nicotine replacement therapies, or NRTs, such as the transdermal nicotine patch and nicotine gum help smokers handle their nicotine dependence. By providing nicotine, NRTs help alleviate the negative psychological effects stemming from withdrawal symptoms.

The negative psychological effects stemming from nicotine dependence cause many smokers to fail in their attempts to stop smoking.

According to Martin J. Jarvis, Ph.D. of the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at University College in London, research does not support smokers’ perception that nicotine provides psychological benefits, such as stress reduction. Jarvis contends that smokers experience the stress of nicotine withdrawal. Smoking only soothes the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and not other life stressors.

Display knowledge of legislation and common laws related to enrolled nursing practice. Display knowledge of the policies and procedures of the health organizations where you work. Fulfill work duties as prescribed. Report observed violations of the legislation, policies and procedures, as well as reporting any incidents that have the potential for harm.

Act in accordance with the code of ethics for enrolled nurses, as well as demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the implications of ethical codes in practical settings.

Respect patients’ rights, values, customs, spiritual beliefs and practice. Display respect and understanding of patients rights, values, customs, spiritual beliefs and practice within the health care environment. Consult with registered nurse to resolve any conflicts and to gain understanding of patients’ perspective. Provide patients with relevant health information in a manner that protects their rights.

Possess awareness of your level of competence. Comprehend the nuances of the levels of accountability and responsibility between registered nurses, enrolled nurses and unregulated health care workers. Accept accountability and responsibility for tasks delegated to you.

Display critical thinking to rate your work performance, continue professional development and maintain personal well-being.

Collaborate with registered nurses and patients to formulate treatment plans. Gather and report data about patients’ health and functional level. Consult with registered nurses and patients to predict health outcomes and evaluate patient’s progress.

Manage patient care in a organized manner to achieve treatment goals. Report any changes in patients’ health and functional level in a timely manner.

Enhance the safety of patients by anticipating potential dangers and adhering to standards and procedures. Use effective communication to promote self-esteem and maintain dignity in patients.

Attend to patients’ comfort needs when they experience illness or dependence. Collaborate with health care team. Provide health education to patients to improve treatment outcomes.

Comprehend your role within the health care team. Show knowledge and comprehension of the other team members’ role. Establish and maintain collaborative relationships with team members and contribute to decision-making.

Select “Microsoft Office” image button. Select “Send.” Select “E-mail.”

Gain entrance into the College within Washington Community College that you seek credits by examination from. Identify existing course that you want to earn credit by examination. Obtain full-time instructor’s recommendation to take exam for credit and approval from the Department Chair. Make arrangements with the College to take exam. Pay the per credit hour fee for the number of credits sought. (see References 1 and 2)

Get the Nontraditional Credit Evaluation application from the Enrollment Services Office at Washtenaw Community College. Contact appropriate faculty in your program area to get evaluators of student’s portfolio and documents. Submit Nontraditional Credit Evaluation application, portfolio and documents for evaluations. (see References 2)