Healthc Inform Res.  2019 Oct;25(4):262-273. 10.4258/hir.2019.25.4.262.

Dietary Application for the Management of Patients with Hemodialysis: A Formative Development Study

• Fakih El Khoury C
• Karavetian M
• Halfens RJ
• Crutzen R
• El Chaar D
• Schols JM

• KMID: 2462224
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4258/hir.2019.25.4.262

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
To describe the step-by-step person-centered, theory-based development of the KELA.AE app for Arabic speaking hemodialysis patients.
METHODS
A step-by-step person-driven theory-based approach was conducted to develop a self-monitoring and educational dietary app for hemodialysis patients. The development follows the Integration, Design, Assessment, and Sharing (IDEAS) framework. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 6 hemodialysis patients and 6 healthcare practitioners (dietitians and nephrologists) were performed to assess the need for an app, the willingness to use an app, and features desired in an app.
RESULTS
The KELA.AE app, which includes a self-monitoring feature, CKD-friendly recipes, and a theory-based, evidence-based educational feature was developed. Qualitative analysis of interviews revealed two predominant themes from patient interviews "˜Experience with the diet', "˜App evaluation', and one theme from interviews with healthcare practitioners "˜App evaluation'. Patients expressed frustration with current accessibility of dietary information along with the need for educational materials in the app. The review of the KELA.AE prototype was positive overall, and patients reported a willingness to use the app. Healthcare practitioners considered the app accurate, simple, and culturally sensitive but expressed concerns about app misuse and the replacement of healthcare practitioners.
CONCLUSIONS
The KELA.AE app was found to be satisfactory and supportive of the participants' needs. Changes were made to the app as suggested during the interviews.

Keyword

Chronic Kidney Failure; Mobile Applications; Health Behavior; Diet; Telemedicine

MeSH Terms

Arabs
Delivery of Health Care
Diet
Frustration
Health Behavior
Humans
Kidney Failure, Chronic
Mobile Applications
Renal Dialysis*
Telemedicine

Figure

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  Figure 1 Sample video snapshot.

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  Figure 2 Sample screenshots from the KELA.AE app.

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  Figure 3 Key findings from patients' interviews on the KELA.AE app.

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  Figure 4 Key findings from healthcare professionals on the KEAL. AE app. CKD-MBD: chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder, HTN: hypertension.

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