This educational activity is credited for 3 contact hours at completion of the activity.
The purpose of this course is to offer a comprehensive overview of vaping by examining its background, physiological impact, prevalence, associated clinical outcomes, available treatment approaches, and key nursing considerations.
Vaping was first commercialized in 2006, introduced as a tool to help individuals quit smoking and promoted as a safer alternative, claiming to lack traditional nicotine by using a salt form rather than the freebase form. As the use of vaping devices became more widespread, questions regarding their safety, effectiveness, and health implications began to emerge. This course explores vaping in detail, addressing its background, physiological effects, prevalence, clinical impact, treatment strategies, and important nursing considerations.
Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
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| 2,3 Pentanedione | An alpha-diketone that is pentane substituted at the 2– and 3-positions by oxo groups. It has a role as a flavoring agent. |
| Acetaldehyde | The first product generated during the metabolism of alcohol (chemically known as ethanol). |
| Acetoin | Produced by yeast during the alcoholic fermentation process. |
| Acrolein | A colorless or yellow liquid with a foul odor, dissolves in water, and changes to a vapor when heated. |
| Alveoli | Where the lungs and the blood exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide during the process of breathing in and breathing out. |
| Arrhythmia | An abnormal heartbeat. |
| Beneficence | An act of charity, mercy, and kindness with a strong connotation of doing good to others including moral obligation. |
| Bronchiolitis Obliterans (Popcorn Lung) | A disease that results in obstruction of the smallest airways of the lungs due to inflammation. |
| Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) | A diagnostic procedure that is used to collect a sample from the lungs for testing. |
| Bronchodilator | A type of medication that make breathing easier by relaxing the muscles in the lungs and widening the airways (bronchi). |
| Bronchoscopy | A technique used to look at your air passages with a small camera that is located at the end of a flexible tube. |
| Cannabidiol (CBD) | The second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis (marijuana). |
| Carbon Dioxide | A natural greenhouse gas, commonly produced by exhaled air. |
| Carbon Monoxide | An odorless, colorless, and tasteless but dangerous gas. |
| Carcinogen | Substances that may increase the risk of developing cancer. |
| Chronic Bronchitis | Long-term inflammation of the bronchi. |
| Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) | A type of progressive lung disease characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. |
| Conduction Heating | The transfer of heat through physical contact. |
| Convection Heating | Process by which heat is transferred by movement of a heated fluid such as air or water. |
| Corticosteroids | A fast-acting class of drugs that can reduce inflammation and overactive immune system responses. |
| Diacetyl | A chemical that has been used to give butter-like and other flavors to food products, including popcorn. |
| Diffusion Capacity (DLCO) | A measurement of the rate of transfer of gas from the alveolus to hemoglobin within a capillary, measured in relation to the driving pressure of the gas across the alveolar-capillary membrane. |
| E-Cigarette Or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) | A severe pulmonary illness associated with the use of e-cigarettes or vaping. |
| Electronic Cigarette (E-Cigarette) | Devices that allow users to inhale an aerosol containing nicotine or other substances. |
| Emphysema | A type of lung disease that causes breathlessness. |
| Endothelial Dysfunction | A type of non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) in which there are no heart artery blockages, but the large blood vessels on the heart’s surface constrict (narrow) instead of dilating (opening). |
| Forced Expiratory Volume in One Second (FEV1) | The volume of air (in liters) exhaled in the first second during forced exhalation after maximal inspiration. |
| Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) | The maximum amount of air that can forcibly be exhaled from the lungs after fully inhaling. |
| Formaldehyde | A colorless, highly toxic, and flammable gas at room temperature. |
| Lung Transplantation | A surgical procedure to replace a diseased or failing lung with a healthy lung, usually from a deceased donor. |
| Marijuana | Refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. |
| Nicotine | The addictive drug in tobacco products. |
| Nonmaleficence | The principle of refraining from causing intentional harm toward another human being. |
| Oxidative Stress | A bodily condition that happens when your antioxidant levels are low. |
| Propylene Glycol (PG) | A synthetic liquid substance that absorbs water. |
| Stimulant | A substance that raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body. |
| Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) | A medicinal compound utilized to manage and treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and stimulate appetite. |
| Tobacco | Derived from the leaves of the genus Nicotiana, a plant from the night-shade family, indigenous to North and South America. |
| Vape Pen | Battery-operated devices that people use to inhale an aerosol, which typically contains nicotine, though not always. |
| Vaping | To use a handheld device to breathe in a mist. |
| Vaporizers | The backbone of gas phase processes, serving as the catalyst for converting liquids into gases. |
| Vegetable Glycerin (VG) | A clear, odorless liquid usually made from soy, palm, and coconut oils. |
| Vitamin E Acetate | A fat-soluble vitamin. |
In 2006, vaping became commercially available, introduced as a smoking cessation tool and promoted as a healthier alternative due to the use of nicotine in salt form rather than freebase.¹ Labeled with appealing names like e-cigarettes, vape pens, and vaporizers, these devices quickly gained popularity, fueling a global industry boom. Within a few years, the market saw an influx of more sophisticated devices, starter kits, and diverse flavor options. However, the widespread adoption of vaping occurred before the health risks were fully understood. As usage increased, so did public health concerns regarding its safety and long-term consequences. Emerging research began to highlight the physiological impact of vaping, including effects on respiratory health, cardiovascular function, and nicotine dependency. This course explores vaping in detail—its background, biological effects, usage trends, clinical implications, treatment strategies, and key nursing considerations. Using evidence-based findings, the course aims to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge needed to address vaping-related health issues and deliver informed, empathetic care.
Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling an aerosol—commonly referred to as vapor—produced by an electronic device such as an e-cigarette, vape pen, or vaporizer.² This vapor may originate from e-liquids, dry herbs, oils, or waxes. E-liquids typically contain nicotine, propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), and various flavorings.³ Nicotine, the main psychoactive component, is a stimulant and vasoconstrictor that elevates heart rate and blood pressure, while activating the brain’s dopamine system to reinforce addictive behavior. Nicotine levels in e-liquids can vary from zero up to 36 milligrams per milliliter.⁴ PG is a synthetic, odorless fluid that creates artificial smoke and enhances flavor, delivering the throat hit often associated with traditional smoking. VG, a thicker and sweeter substance, contributes to vapor density and enhances sweetness. Flavorings span over 7,000 varieties, including options like tobacco, menthol, fruits, and dessert-inspired choices. In addition to e-liquids, many users vape dry herbs such as cannabidiol (CBD), as well as oils and waxes that may contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).⁵ CBD, derived from hemp or marijuana, is non-psychoactive and noted for its calming effects and anti-inflammatory properties. THC, the primary psychoactive agent in cannabis, produces the sensation of being “high.”
Unlike traditional cigarettes that rely on combustion, vaping devices operate via conduction or convection heating—or both.⁶ In conduction heating, the substance directly contacts a heated element, such as a coil, leading to vaporization. This is common in more basic vaporizers. Convection heating, more typical of advanced devices, involves circulating hot air around the substance to produce vapor without direct contact. Vape pens generally function within a range of 200°F to 450°F, depending on the device and its settings.⁷ Since vaping eliminates combustion, it does not produce tar or carbon monoxide, which has contributed to its reputation as a safer alternative. However, vaping presents its own unique set of risks and health concerns.
The Electric Cigarette (E-Cigarette)
Modern e-cigarettes trace back to 2003, when Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik developed the first prototype as a safer smoking alternative following his father’s death from lung cancer.⁸ His design used piezoelectric ultrasound technology to vaporize a nicotine solution, laying the groundwork for modern devices. E-cigarettes—also called vape pens or vaporizers—are specifically engineered to deliver nicotine or other substances in vapor form.⁹ They comprise three essential components: a battery, an atomizer, and a reservoir of e-liquid. The battery powers the atomizer, which contains a metal coil that heats up and vaporizes the liquid. Some atomizers include adjustable airflow to influence vapor density and flavor. For devices that use dry herbs, convection heating is employed without an atomizer, circulating hot air to release vapor without combustion.
A variety of e-cigarettes are available to suit different user preferences.¹⁰ These include:
E-cigarettes and traditional tobacco cigarettes differ notably in composition, operation, and user experience.¹¹ E-cigarettes are electronic devices made of multiple components that vaporize a liquid solution—typically devoid of actual tobacco leaves. Traditional cigarettes, by contrast, consist of paper-wrapped cylinders filled with shredded or processed tobacco. When ignited, they undergo combustion, producing smoke infused with nicotine and various harmful chemicals. The nicotine content inhaled from traditional cigarettes depends on the cigarette brand and how deeply it is smoked. With e-cigarettes, nicotine use is optional, and concentrations range widely based on the e-liquid formulation. While traditional cigarettes deliver a pronounced “throat hit”—a harsh, tingling sensation from rapid nicotine absorption—e-cigarettes often attempt to replicate this feeling to provide a familiar experience to former smokers.
E-cigarettes can be used in several inhalation styles.¹² A common technique is the mouth-to-lung inhale, where the vapor is drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs, closely mimicking conventional cigarette use. Another approach, favored by more experienced users, is the direct lung inhale, in which vapor is inhaled deeply into the lungs in one motion—this method enhances flavor intensity and vapor production. Some individuals engage in discreet puffing, drawing vapor into the mouth without full inhalation, to enjoy the taste and sensation without exposure to deep lung inhalation. E-cigarettes also offer a high degree of customization, including adjustable airflow, wattage settings, and a wide variety of flavors, enabling users to tailor their experience to their preferences.
E-cigarette use among adults is on the rise, with more than 4% of the adult population reporting current use.¹³ Within this demographic, two primary groups have emerged: individuals who are new to nicotine products, and former or current smokers who have transitioned to vaping as an alternative or smoking cessation aid. Data indicates that 39% of adult vapers also smoke traditional cigarettes, 37% are former smokers, and 23% have never smoked before. Roughly 30% of adults who vape also engage in dual use, combining e-cigarettes with traditional smoking. This behavior is associated with greater toxic exposure and worsened respiratory outcomes compared to using either product alone. Vaping is most prevalent among non-Hispanic White, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and multiracial populations.¹⁴ Educational attainment also appears linked to prevalence: 2% of adult vapers had less than a high school education, 3% were high school graduates or had some college, and only 1% held a college degree. Adults aged 18–24 report the highest usage rates (11%), with near-equal participation among men (11%) and women (10%). Among adults aged 25–44, prevalence remains higher among men (7%) than women (5%).
Adults cite multiple motivations for vaping.¹⁶ A leading reason is smoking cessation, with many smokers using e-cigarettes to reduce tobacco use and eventually quit. Vaping mimics the hand-to-mouth action and nicotine delivery of cigarettes without combustion. Others perceive vaping as a less harmful alternative, influenced by marketing and health messages that emphasize fewer harmful chemicals than in tobacco smoke. Social factors also play a role. Vaping may be viewed as a recreational or communal activity, enhanced by the wide array of flavors available. Additionally, e-cigarettes are often more convenient and discreet, producing less odor than traditional cigarettes. For some adults, vaping serves as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety, offering a calming ritual similar to smoking.
In 2023, e-cigarettes became the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students.¹⁷ Over 35% of students reported trying an e-cigarette at least once, with 5–7% identified as current users. Vaping prevalence is highest among non-Hispanic multiracial (20%) and non-Hispanic White (18%) youth.¹⁸ Unlike adult trends, female students report higher use (11%) than males (8%). Among students who had ever vaped, 46% continued to do so, and 25% of current users reported daily use—indicating rapid progression from experimentation to dependence.
Multiple factors contribute to youth vaping. One of the most influential is exposure to advertising. In 2021, 70% of middle and high school students reported seeing e-cigarette promotions, particularly in retail stores, online platforms, television, and print. Among youth using social media, 75% reported viewing vaping-related content. This widespread exposure normalizes e-cigarette use and heightens appeal.¹⁹ Product accessibility also plays a major role. Disposable e-cigarettes are often cheaper than traditional cigarettes, and youth frequently obtain them from peers. In 2021, 32% of students got them from friends, 31% purchased them directly, 28% had someone else buy them, and 21% received them unsolicited.²⁰ The availability of flavored e-cigarettes further drives use, with flavors sparking curiosity and enhancing the vaping experience. An estimated 90% of youth users report using flavored products.²¹ Social influences—particularly peer and family behaviors—are also strong motivators, with many students citing friends or relatives as the reason they first tried vaping.
Traditional cigarettes have long been associated with a high risk of addiction, with an estimated 60–80% of smokers developing nicotine dependence. Although e-cigarettes were originally marketed as a less addictive alternative, emerging research suggests that for certain populations, they may be just as addictive—or even more so—than conventional tobacco products.¹⁷ When compared to nicotine gum, studies have shown that e-cigarettes can lead to similar or greater levels of dependence. Among users, approximately 91% of traditional cigarette smokers, 80% of disposable e-cigarette users, 83% of pod-based e-cigarette users, and 82% of mod and other e-cigarette users demonstrated signs of addiction.²² Clinical studies further suggest that individuals who exclusively use e-cigarettes tend to exhibit higher levels of nicotine dependence than those who smoke traditional cigarettes.²³ These users are more likely to vape within 30 minutes of waking and report greater difficulty abstaining from use in restricted areas.
Several factors may account for the heightened addiction potential of e-cigarettes. Modern devices can deliver large volumes of vapor and are often used with high-nicotine e-liquids, leading to more rapid and intense nicotine delivery. This efficiency contributes to a stronger physiological response and quicker reinforcement of addictive behaviors. Sales data confirms this trend: high-nicotine products (5% or more nicotine concentration) accounted for 81% of all e-cigarette unit sales.²⁴ The affordability of these high-nicotine options, combined with price increases for low-nicotine products, has further driven their popularity and sustained usage.
Among adolescents, smoking traditional cigarettes has declined significantly—from 70% in 1991 to just 28%—thanks to sustained public health efforts by healthcare professionals, advocacy groups, and policymakers.²⁵ Despite this progress, youth addiction to vaping is climbing due to three primary factors: misleading advertising that portrays vaping as safer, marketing campaigns specifically targeting teens, and the biological vulnerability of adolescents to nicotine addiction. The adolescent brain is particularly susceptible to the effects of nicotine. During this stage of development, the brain’s reward system is more sensitive, and nicotine exposure can permanently alter neural pathways, increasing the likelihood of long-term dependence.
The delivery method of e-cigarettes also contributes to their addictive nature.²³ Adjustable voltage and temperature settings allow for the rapid absorption of concentrated nicotine doses, resulting in a faster and more potent effect. This enhances the addictive potential by strengthening the link between vaping and the brain’s reward system. Additionally, environmental and social cues associated with vaping—such as specific settings, peer interactions, or stress—can trigger cravings through conditioned associations. These cues can persist even after periods of abstinence, contributing to relapse. For many, nicotine becomes a coping mechanism for stress or mental health challenges, reinforcing the cycle of dependence. The behavioral rituals of vaping, such as hand-to-mouth movements and exhaling vapor, further entrench the habit and make it more difficult to break.
Vaping presents multiple short-term and long-term health risks due to chemical exposure, nicotine content, and its impact on physical and mental health. In the short term, vaping can lead to symptoms such as throat and mouth irritation, coughing, nausea, and dizziness. However, long-term consequences are more severe, with potential outcomes including respiratory complications, lung injury, and cardiovascular issues. Research has indicated that chronic exposure to vaporized substances may increase the risk of respiratory problems, infections, and lung damage by 30–60%.²⁶ While many e-liquid ingredients are considered safe when ingested, their effects when inhaled are less understood. Overheating these substances may produce harmful byproducts—formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein—which are known to irritate the respiratory tract and elevate cardiovascular risk through mechanisms such as oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction.
Nicotine itself remains a significant concern. It is highly addictive and has been linked to future drug dependency. Beyond addiction, nicotine can negatively influence mental health by contributing to mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive disruption. It particularly impacts the developing brain, with potential consequences including impaired attention, mood regulation, impulse control, and learning capacity.²⁷ In extreme cases, acute nicotine poisoning may occur, especially among young children who accidentally ingest or absorb vaping liquids. This can result in vomiting, seizures, increased heart rate, and in severe instances, death. Alarmingly, over 80% of e-cigarette-related calls to poison control centers involve children under the age of five.²⁸
E-cigarette aerosols may also contain other dangerous substances.²⁹ These include cancer-causing chemicals generated during the heating process and heavy metals—such as tin, nickel, and lead—from device components. These toxic elements can be inhaled into the lungs and may cause inflammation or long-term organ damage. Additionally, ultrafine particles and volatile organic compounds in the vapor pose a risk to lung function and can worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Another risk associated with vaping is physical injury caused by device malfunctions, particularly faulty batteries.³⁰ Rechargeable e-cigarettes with poor-quality batteries have been known to explode, especially during charging, resulting in burns and traumatic injuries to the face, hands, and body.
Lung Damage and Disease
Lung damage refers to the deterioration of lung structure or function, often resulting from repeated exposure to harmful substances. Among vapers, lung injuries can manifest as inflammation, breathing difficulties, or even irreversible damage. One of the most severe conditions is e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI), which gained attention in 2019 after numerous hospitalizations and fatalities.³¹ In many cases, affected individuals required intensive care, and some required mechanical ventilation. By the end of that year, over 2,500 individuals had been hospitalized, with 68 deaths—15% of which involved people under 18.³² Symptoms of EVALI include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, vomiting, and fever, with many cases traced back to inhalation of vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent found in some vaping products. When vaporized, this compound breaks down into toxic chemicals that severely damage lung tissue.
Other chronic lung conditions have also been linked to vaping. Chronic bronchitis is marked by inflammation of the bronchial tubes and excessive mucus production, leading to coughing and respiratory distress. Vaping compounds are known to aggravate these airways, contributing to a 33% increase in chronic bronchitis risk.²⁶
Bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly referred to as “popcorn lung,” is another rare yet serious illness tied to vaping. It results in scarring and narrowing of the small airways, causing breathing difficulties. The condition was originally identified in workers exposed to diacetyl—a buttery flavoring agent also found in 76% of tested e-liquids. Other chemicals such as acetoin and 2,3-pentanedione were found in 45% and 90% of e-liquids tested, respectively, and 92% of e-cigarettes contained at least one of these toxic substances.³³ ³⁴
Vaping has also been linked to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive illness that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Although tobacco smoking remains the primary cause, vaping can increase the risk of developing COPD-like symptoms by over 62%.²⁶ Continuous exposure to chemical-laden aerosols may result in lung tissue damage, inflammation, and airway obstruction, particularly in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Lung Transplantation
In severe cases where lung damage is irreversible, transplantation may be the only viable treatment.³⁵ Approximately 4,000 lung transplants are performed globally each year.³⁶ These procedures involve surgically replacing one or both diseased lungs with healthy donor lungs. The choice between a single or double lung transplant depends on the extent and nature of the disease. Candidates undergo extensive evaluation, including medical exams, lab work, imaging, pulmonary function tests, and psychological assessments. Once a compatible donor is found, surgery is scheduled promptly.
The transplant process involves removing damaged lungs and carefully suturing donor lungs into place, connecting them to the recipient’s circulatory and respiratory systems. After surgery, patients require intensive care including immunosuppressive medications, pain management, and rehabilitation therapy.³⁶ Long-term outcomes depend on several factors such as the patient’s overall health, the presence of other medical conditions, and the risk of organ rejection. Up to 50% of patients experience organ rejection within the first year, and 45% within five years post-transplant.³⁸
Despite the risks, lung transplantation can greatly improve respiratory function and quality of life. The one-year survival rate is approximately 80–85%, with outcomes depending heavily on the quality of postoperative care and the individual’s adherence to treatment. Immunosuppressive therapy, though necessary, can result in additional complications such as infections, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and an elevated risk of certain cancers.
Diagnosing lung conditions associated with vaping requires a combination of specialized tests, imaging, and clinical assessments.³⁹ The diagnostic process generally starts with a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including a review of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. Common symptoms that raise concern for vape-related lung disease include coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and fatigue. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are commonly performed to evaluate the lungs’ capacity and efficiency. These non-invasive tests assess metrics such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and diffusion capacity (DLCO), helping to identify obstructive or restrictive patterns of lung dysfunction and track disease progression.
Imaging studies such as chest X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans are also essential tools in diagnosing vape-related lung issues. While chest X-rays may reveal signs of inflammation or fluid buildup, CT scans provide more detailed images of the lung tissue, revealing subtle abnormalities that may not be visible on X-rays. This advanced imaging helps detect structural damage and the presence of vape-induced injuries.
Bronchoscopy may be indicated for further evaluation.³⁹ This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube (bronchoscope) through the nose or mouth into the lungs to visually inspect the airways and collect samples. Techniques such as bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or lung biopsy can be performed to rule out infections, assess inflammation, and test for harmful substances. Laboratory tests, including blood work and sputum analysis, may be ordered to detect inflammation, infections, or systemic responses. In suspected cases of EVALI, fluid samples or vaping products may be analyzed for substances like vitamin E acetate or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, preventing further lung injury, and addressing underlying causes.⁴⁰⁻⁴¹ Corticosteroids are often used to reduce lung inflammation and improve breathing in patients experiencing acute symptoms. These drugs suppress immune system activity and ease airway swelling. If bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed. Bronchodilators are another common intervention, helping to open narrowed airways and improve airflow. Short-acting bronchodilators such as albuterol are typically used during symptom flare-ups, while long-acting variants may be used for sustained symptom control. Patients with compromised lung function may also require supplemental oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels and alleviate symptoms like breathlessness or fatigue.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is frequently recommended as part of the recovery process.⁴² These programs include supervised physical activity, respiratory training, and education to help patients improve lung function and maintain independence. Nutrition and mental health support also play a critical role. Healthcare teams may offer counseling and dietary guidance to ensure patients maintain optimal physical and emotional health during recovery. For individuals who vape, cessation is imperative. Quitting reduces the risk of further damage and supports lung healing. Healthcare providers may offer cessation resources such as behavioral counseling, support groups, or pharmacological aids like nicotine replacement therapy.
Ongoing patient education and lifestyle counseling are vital components of long-term management. These efforts emphasize avoiding respiratory irritants, practicing healthy habits, and attending regular follow-up appointments to track recovery and adjust treatment plans. Continuous monitoring is essential to manage complications, ensure stable respiratory function, and promote sustained improvements in quality of life.
When caring for individuals affected by vaping-related conditions, healthcare professionals must consider ethical principles, effective communication, patient education, and cessation support.⁴³ Ethical challenges may arise, particularly in situations involving minors who are not legally able to make autonomous healthcare decisions. In such cases, balancing the principles of beneficence (doing good), nonmaleficence (avoiding harm), and respect for autonomy becomes critical. Nurses should advocate for patients by upholding their rights and ensuring that decisions are made with informed consent and aligned with ethical and professional standards of care.
Clear and compassionate communication plays a vital role in managing vaping-related illnesses. Nurses should create a supportive environment using empathetic listening, transparent explanations, and nonjudgmental language. This helps establish trust and fosters open discussions with patients and their families. Providing factual information about the dangers of vaping, including risks of nicotine dependence and potential lung damage, supports informed decision-making and strengthens patient engagement in treatment.
Nurses are integral to vaping cessation efforts.⁴⁴ They should assess each patient’s readiness to quit, deliver personalized counseling, and offer behavioral interventions. By partnering with interdisciplinary teams, nurses can help create individualized cessation plans tailored to the patient’s preferences, health status, and motivation. Continued follow-up and support are essential to reinforce progress and address challenges that may arise during the quitting process.
Because vaping technology, usage patterns, and associated health risks are rapidly evolving, ongoing professional development is necessary. Nurses should pursue continuing education, attend relevant training sessions or conferences, and consult evidence-based resources to stay current on best practices and regulatory changes. Remaining well-informed enables nurses to respond effectively to emerging vaping-related health concerns and provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
Vaping presents serious public health challenges, particularly among adolescents and young adults. Since its introduction in 2006, vaping has been promoted as a less harmful alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. However, the health risks it poses are considerable. Although e-cigarettes deliver nicotine in a different form, they still contribute significantly to nicotine dependence—especially in youth—due to factors such as social influence, flavored products, and misconceptions about safety. The health consequences of vaping are wide-ranging and serious, including addiction, lung injury, and conditions like EVALI, chronic bronchitis, and bronchiolitis obliterans. These illnesses can lead to long-term complications and may require advanced interventions like lung transplantation.
Addressing vaping-related health conditions requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary strategy that includes case management, consistent monitoring, pulmonary rehabilitation, and mental health support. Clear and compassionate communication with patients and families is essential to build trust and ensure understanding of the associated risks, available treatments, and strategies for quitting. Ethical concerns are particularly relevant when working with underage patients who are not legally able to make healthcare decisions. Nurses play a crucial role in advocating for these patients, supporting their rights, and promoting their overall health. Ongoing professional development is also critical, as healthcare providers must remain up to date on vaping trends, emerging evidence, and best practices to respond effectively to this growing public health concern.
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