A smoke-free hospital

To support the health and well-being of our patients, visitors and staff, West Valley Hospital is entirely smoke-free. That means there are no designated smoking areas anywhere on the campus.

Why it's important that we go smoke-free

Everyone deserves smoke-free air.
Secondhand smoke contains 43 cancer-causing agents and other toxins, including formaldehyde, cyanide, carbon monoxide and arsenic.
Children are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke, which contributes to asthma, ear infections, pneumonia and bronchitis.

How to Quit

Cigarette Smoking is both a habit and an addiction, making quitting especially hard. But you can quit.

In fact, the urge to smoke will begin to subside a few days after you’ve had your last cigarette. Until then, try these tips from the American Cancer Society.

Drink plenty of water.
Delay giving in to the craving - the urge should pass in a few minutes
Breathe deeply and relax.
Do something active, such as taking a walk, writing a to-do list or calling a friend.

For additional help, check out the following

FreshStart Smoking Cessation Classes - Call 503-561-5639
The Nicotine Anonymous group meets at Salem Hospital. Call 503-507-7949.
The Oregon Quit Line (1-877-270-STOP)
QuitTobacco.org

How to support someone who is trying to quit

You can be a big help to the people you care about by encouraging and supporting them as they make sometimes difficult changes in their lives.

It may call for a little bit of sacrifice on your part, but hey, you just might improve your own health while supporting them! Here are some ways you can help:

Help out with daily responsibilities to lessen the stress.
Keep his or her mind off of tobacco by doing things together, such as going to the movies or taking a walk.
If you use tobacco yourself, don’t smoke or chew around someone who wants to quit, and don’t encourage them to start again.
Understand that they will be irritable as they go through nicotine withdrawal. Be patient with them.
Learn relaxation techniques together.