Development and evaluation of an intelligent individualized nutrition management (iNutrition) applet for postdischarge gastric cancer patients following gastrectomy.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to develop an intelligent individualized nutrition management (iNutrition) applet for postdischarge gastric cancer patients following gastrectomy based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) theory and using the design thinking method.

METHODS

We developed the iNutrition applet using the design thinking method, including the following phases: (1) "empathize and define," which focused on understanding patients' needs and establishing the goals of the iNutrition applet through qualitative interviews; (2) "ideate and prototype," during which literature reviews and multidisciplinary interactive workshops to conceptualize innovative solutions were conducted and a fully functional iNutrition applet was developed; and (3) "test," during which the iNutrition applet was evaluated through usability testing.

RESULTS

Based on qualitative interviews with 15 patients, we determined that the iNutrition applet would need to satisfy patients' needs in the following areas: adjustment to postoperative anatomical changes, evidence-based knowledge, communication with peers, consultation with medical staff, tailored nutritional plans, coping plans, and needs for technology. Consequently, the applet was designed to have eight functions: gastrointestinal symptom management, nutrition knowledge, medical consultation, peer communication, nutrition goals, nutrition diary with calculator, weekly meal plan, and nutritional status score. During short-term usability testing, the patients' task completion rate ranged from 88 to 100%. Long-term usability testing resulted in a System Usability Scale (SUS) score of 75.20 ± 10.63 and a net promoter score (NPS) of 32%. The participants were generally satisfied with the applet's design and functionality, providing feedback that informed further refinements to the final version of the applet.

CONCLUSION

The iNutrition applet, which has received high ratings for usability and user satisfaction, is an acceptable and feasible method of postdischarge nutritional management for gastric cancer patients following gastrectomy.