From Smoke to Mist: The Lived Experiences of Nursing Students Who Transitioned the Use of Traditional Cigarettes to E-Cigarettes

Background: The rise of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) as an alternative to traditional cigarettes has sparked significant interest, particularly among young adults, including nursing students. Methods: The study explored the lived experiences of nursing students who transitioned the use of e-cigarettes from traditional cigarette smoking utilizing narrative inquiry as the research design. Data analysis followed an iterative process of thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns in the participants' narratives. Results: Four themes emerged: (1) Predictors of Onset and Immersion, (2) Personal Motivations Driving the Transition from Regular to Electronic, (3) Crossroads of Awareness and Benefits, and (4) Emerging Contours of E-cigarettes. Conclusion: The findings shed light on the intricate dynamics where personal preferences intersect with societal norms, economic considerations, and technological advancements. This paper is associated with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being. Good health and well-being encourage healthy well-being among people of all ages.