Experiences of Patients With Heart Failure Incorporating Mobile Health Applications Into Their Self-Monitoring

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to clarify the experiences of patients with heart failure (HF) using mobile health applications for self-monitoring practices and to explore implications for nursing support.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 patients with HF and performed a qualitative analysis of the data.

Results: The analysis identified seven categories: “Decision to use the app motivated by a trusted person”, “Expectations and conflicts regarding app use”, “Trial-and-error process of incorporating the app”, “Reduction of burden”, “Decision to continue self-monitoring using the app”, “Difficulties due to app specifications and environment”, and “Difficulty in continuing self-monitoring due to challenges in app use”.

Conclusion: Patients with HF had diverse experiences, throughout their use of the app, from initial introduction to its ongoing use. These experiences were influenced by their expectations, anxieties about app-based self-monitoring, individual life contexts, and interactions with healthcare professionals. Therefore, nurses should provide individualized, continuous support starting from the introduction phase, while considering patients’ psychosocial factors and daily life circumstances.