The NHS Centre for Smoking Cessation & Training (NCSCT): Does training and assessment make a difference?
Update RequiredTo play the media you will need to either update your browser to a recent version or update your Flash plugin.
Presenter(s)
Dr Andy McEwen Executive Director, NHS Centre for Smoking Cessation & Training (NCSCT)
Dr Leonie Brose Research Associate, NHS Centre for Smoking Cessation & Training (NCSCT)
Abstract
Background:
The NCSCT was set up to meet the needs of smokers by training practitioners in delivering evidence-based smoking cessation interventions. Having proof that they deliver such interventions is the best way that practitioners can safeguard their future in these times of great change. The NCSCT has developed a methodology for identifying the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) required to deliver effective smoking cessation interventions. These BCTs (core knowledge and skills competences) form the basis of our training and assessment programme and DH recommend that anyone helping smokers to stop should gain NCSCT certification.
Methods:
Training is delivered in two stages: knowledge is taught online (ncsct.co.uk), skills are then trained in face-to-face two-day courses. Knowledge was assessed using 436 practitioners’ responses to multiple choice questions at the beginning and end of the online training. Skills were assessed using paired means comparisons of ratings of confidence in 16 competences completed before (n=143-237), immediately after (n=142-236) and three months after (n=66-88) skills training; satisfaction with aspects of the skills training was rated (n=161-260).
Results:
Practitioners’ knowledge improved significantly (p<0.001) on all subsections of the training and assessment programme. Practitioners’ confidence in all competences improved during skills training (all p<0.001); maintenance of improvement was shown for 14 competences. All aspects received >90% positive satisfaction ratings.
Discussion:
Practitioners were very satisfied with the training; it improved practitioners’ knowledge and confidence in their competence; associations between these, actual competence and smoking cessation rates are currently being investigated.
Conclusion:
The two-stage NCSCT training effectively improves knowledge and confidence in competently delivering effective stop smoking interventions. Trained practitioners can deliver evidence-based interventions and certification provides proof of their expertise.
