Public Health · single question
A patient is addicted to tobacco. Using the 5 As approach, what is the FIRST step?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Ask
- A. Advise is the SECOND step in the 5 As — it comes after identifying the patient as a tobacco user through Asking.
- B. Assist is the FOURTH step — it provides the quit plan after the first three steps.
- C. The 5 As for tobacco cessation are: (1) ASK — identify all tobacco users at every visit, (2) Advise — urge all users to quit, (3) Assess — determine readiness to quit, (4) Assist — help the patient with a quit plan, (5) Arrange — follow-up. The FIRST step is always to ASK about tobacco use status at every appointment.
- D. Assess (readiness to quit) is the THIRD step — it occurs after asking and advising.