Pediatric otolaryngologists' actions regarding secondhand smoke exposure: Pilot data suggest an opportunity to enhance tobacco intervention

OBJECTIVE: To assess pediatric otolaryngologists' training, actions, and attitudes with respect to patients exposed to secondhand smoke. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SUBJECTS: Pediatric otolaryngologists and senior residents. SUBJECTS: Pediatric otolaryngologists and senior residents. METHODS: An anonymous, Web-based Survey of pediatric oloaryngologists was designed to capture demographics, tobacco-specific education, actions. and attitudes. Responses were analyzed descriptively and entered into logistic regression models to determine predictors of adherence to the basic tenets of the general pediatrics secondhand smoke exposure-prevention guidelines. RESULTS: One hundred-fifteen US physicians completed the survey. Descriptive analysis revealed low levels of training and low levels of tobacco-specific intervention among respondents. Logistic regression models showed that greater tobacco-specific knowledge/education and fewer perceived barriers predicted greater adherence to the basic tenets of the pediatrics guidelines. CONCLUSION: Our pilot study provides preliminary evidence that can guide specific improvements in tobacco-intervention training for pediatric otolaryngologists and residents. (c) 2008 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.