Second- and third-hand smoke exposure: Selected literature for healthcare professionals providing home-based services to the severely mentally ill

Purpose: To develop recommendations for healthcare professionals at risk for exposure to secondhand (SHS) and thirdhand smoke (THS) while providing home-based services to patients with severe mental illnesses (SMIs), such as schizophrenia. Summary: Healthcare professionals who provide services to those with SMIs have the potential to be exposed to SHS and THS. Smoking rates in persons diagnosed with schizophrenia are significantly higher compared to the general population (up to 90% versus approximately 30%). According to one study, only 31.5% of patients with SMIs are likely to have smoke-free homes. Currently there are no guidelines available for minimizing the effects of SHS and THS on healthcare professionals. Strategies for minimizing the effects are proposed. Conclusion: Literature dealing with the effects of SHS, potential occupational hazards of exposure, and the results of anti-public smoking laws to address the problem were reviewed. The health hazards of THS exposure are an emerging area. Data are limited on alternative strategies for healthcare professionals to minimize SHS and THS exposure. Suggestions to minimize exposure are provided.