2024 Volume 20 Issue 2 Pages 77-86
Objective：We developed a mobile application (hereinafter referred to as “app”) for outpatients with cancer pain and created a nursing support program to improve self-management of pain through the app and nursing interventions. The purpose of this study was to determine the usability of the developed app for outpatients with cancer pain. Methods:Outpatients with cancer pain who had been taking opioids were asked to use the app for one week. We then administered a questionnaire that asked outpatients to rate the usability and other aspects of the app on a 5-point scale and calculated the mean scores. In addition, we conducted an interview to determine patient satisfaction and identify areas for improvement. The responses were qualitatively and descriptively analyzed. Results:A total of 9 outpatients participated. Mean usability ratings were as follows: over all ease of use (3.0), ease of understanding operation instractions (3.0), ease of understanding the configuration (3.3), ease of operation (4.1), ease of short time to complete operation (3.6), quick operation (3.9), readability of text (3.8), desire to use in the future (2.8), overall satisfaction (40-60%), and overall rating of the app (2.8). Seven participants used the app daily, while the remaining two participants used the app three times per week. These two participants were unable to use the app daily due to exacerbating pain or fever. The ability of the app to instantly display messages according to the information entered helped with laxative intake and led to participants’ reassurance. Areas for improvement suggested by the participants included changing the font size and adding a column for patients to record that they have taken their medication. Discussion:The developed app was generally considered useful in terms of effectiveness and efficiency, although its use may be burdensome depending on the physical condition of the patient. Future improvements are needed, such as changing the font size and adding a column for recording the intake of medication.
