Perceptions of utilizing a symptom self-management app for breast cancer patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy

Nuo Shi, Nan Zhang, Kam Yuet Wong, Weiyi Zhu, Xiaobin Lai, Yufei Jin , Chengjia Gu , Lijing Nie, Xiaojing Dong, Arkers Kwan Ching Wong

Research output: Journal article publicationJournal articleAcademic researchpeer-review

Abstract

Purpose: Breast cancer (BC) patients who are undergoing outpatient chemotherapy encounter difficulties in symptom self-management at home. We have developed a mobile app with the support of self-regulation activities and nurse-led social service to empower self-management of BC patients during outpatient chemotherapy. The study aimed to explore the perceptions of breast cancer patients and nurses in utilizing an app with the functions of proactive nursing support and empowerment. Methods: This is a qualitative study including group interviews with nurses and patients with breast cancer receiving outpatient chemotherapy. A total of eleven patients and five nurses were enrolled from August 2022 to October 2022. Thematic analysis was adopted to analyze the interview transcripts. Main themes and related sub-themes were drawn from the transcripts. Results: Barriers (the lack of a contractual spirit) and facilitators (social support and native high-adherence) to app usage were identified. Following the six-week program, patients underwent various transformations such as improved health awareness and a tendency to pay more attention to psychological symptoms. This program also led to various changes in the nurses, including a transformation from taking the reactive emergency calls to a proactive approach of incorporating a self-regulation process and social support. Conclusions: The findings from the group interviews stressed the importance of integrating technology and nursing social support in facilitating patient symptom self-management.

Original languageEnglish
Article number102624
JournalEuropean Journal of Oncology Nursing
Volume71
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2024

Keywords

  • Adherence
  • Breast cancer
  • Chemotherapy
  • Mobile health
  • Self-management

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology(nursing)

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