What is the appropriate intervention after assessing a patient's willingness to quit tobacco?

The selected answer highlights the importance of actively assisting patients with quitting tobacco by providing education and support tailored to their needs. After determining that a patient is willing to quit, this intervention focuses on facilitating their journey toward cessation. It involves educating the patient about the various options available, including behavioral strategies and pharmacotherapy, which can significantly enhance the likelihood of successful quitting.

Providing education also empowers patients by informing them about the health benefits of quitting tobacco, as well as the potential risks associated with continued use. Furthermore, it opens up a dialogue where patients can share their thoughts, challenges, and any previous attempts they have made, which can inform a more personalized cessation plan.

The other options, while relevant to patient care, do not directly address the next steps in supporting the patient’s readiness to quit. Advising about quitting is an important first step but may lack the deeper engagement that assisting through education offers. Assessing mental health history and conducting a physical assessment are crucial components of comprehensive care but do not specifically align with the immediate intervention required upon assessing willingness to quit tobacco. Providing direct assistance through education makes the intervention more actionable and supportive in the context of tobacco cessation.