The use of mobile technology to facilitate self-management in adults with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative explorative approach.
Rachel H Franklin, Marion Waite, Clare Martin
PMID 31367426WHAT IT FOUND
Eight adults with type 1 diabetes described needing mobile apps that link blood glucose, insulin and carbs to show trends, use colour to flag highs and lows, and let them share data with clinicians quickly.
They rejected apps that were slow or complex.
Key findings
01Participants wanted visualization features that showed the relationship between inputs like blood glucose, insulin and diet, along with trends, graphs and colour coding for high and low readings.
02Time and convenience were primary barriers, with participants rejecting apps that were time-consuming or difficult to use in favour of quick, easy and personalizable tools.
03Most participants identified the need to easily share their data and visualizations with their healthcare provider, viewing connectivity as an essential feature.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
Small sample size of eight adults limits generalizability. The study was conducted by a novice researcher, posing a risk of bias in interpretation, although themes were reviewed by an experienced researcher. Participants were English-speaking and recruited from a specific local area, which may not reflect broader populations. The study explores perceptions and desired features, not the actual clinical effectiveness of any specific technology.
Declared interests
No conflict of interest declared by the authors.
The easy way to misread this
Do not interpret these findings as evidence that mobile apps improve blood glucose control or clinical outcomes. This study reports patient preferences for app features, not the efficacy of using such apps.