Healthcare professionals’ perceptions of risky health behaviours: A qualitative evaluation of preventative measures for populations with cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Objectives

Previous qualitative data highlight why individuals with Cystic Fibrosis may be motivated to initiate in risky behaviours (smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and illicit drug use). To inform interventions aimed to reduce the occurrence of risky behaviours, we investigated how Cystic Fibrosis health care professionals perceive the issue of risky behaviours, providing insight into what interventions could work in practice.

Methods

This research had two phases of data collection. In phase one, nine Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Nurses participated in a semi-structured interview via telephone. In phase two, health care professionals, who work within a Cystic Fibrosis multi-disciplinary team, participated in a dissemination meeting.

Results

Cystic Fibrosis health care professionals identified that although risky behaviours were a major concern within the Cystic Fibrosis population, education regarding the adverse health effects of such behaviours is not embedded within practice, with the issue of risky behaviours being addressed on an individualised basis. Health care professionals suggested that they would welcome interventions, and that such interventions first need to raise health care professionals awareness and knowledge regarding risky behaviours before focusing upon patients.

Discussion

Within this research, health care professionals provided practical insight into the need for policy change for the prevention and reduction of risky behaviours by informing current advice and practice.