LAUSR

PURPOSE This study aims to identify the relationship between nicotine dependence levels and cessation fatigue. DESIGN AND METHODS This descriptive study was conducted in a city located in the eastern part of Turkey between December 2019 and March 2020. The sample consisted of 107 students who met the research criteria. Data were collected using the sociodemographic form, the Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence test, and the cessation fatigue scale (CFS). FINDINGS The CFS mean score was found to be significantly higher in women and in those who had high and very high nicotine dependence levels (p < 0.05). A positive and statistically significant relationship was found between cessation fatigue and nicotine dependence (p < 0.001). In addition, relationships were also found between cessation fatigue and variables, such as age, age of starting to smoke regularly, age of trying smoking for the first time, and the number of cigarettes smoked daily (p < 0.05). PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This study detected a relationship between smoking cessation fatigue, and nicotine dependence. Studies have revealed that nursing practices on the struggle against smoking are effective. A better understanding of these processes could support nursing practices development.