Co‐creation and evaluation of an algorithm for the development of a mobile application for wound care among new graduate nurses: A mixed methods study

Abstract

Chronic wounds are a growing concern due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles and increasing rates of obesity and chronic diseases. The impact of such wounds is felt worldwide, posing a considerable clinical, environmental and socioeconomic challenge and impacting the quality of life. The increasing complexity of care requires a holistic approach, along with extensive knowledge and skills. The challenge experienced by health‐care professionals is particularly significant for newly graduate nurses, who face a gap between theory and practice. Digital tools, such as mobile applications, can support wound care by facilitating more precise assessments, early treatment, complication prevention and better outcomes. They also aid in clinical decision‐making and improve healthcare delivery in remote areas. Several mobile applications have emerged to enhance wound care. However, there are no applications dedicated to newly graduate nurses. The aim of this study was to co‐create and evaluate an algorithm for the development of a wound care mobile application supporting clinical decisions for new graduate nurses. The development of this mobile application is envisioned to improve knowledge application and facilitate evidence‐based practice. This study is part of a multiphase project that adopted a pragmatic epistemological approach, using the ‘Knowledge‐to‐Action’ conceptual model and Duchscher's Stages of Transition Theory. Following a scoping review, an expert consensus, and stakeholder meetings, this study was pursued through a sequential exploratory mixed methods design carried out in two phases. In the initial phase, 21 participants engaged in semi‐structured focus groups to explore their needs regarding clinical decision support in wound care, explore their perceptions of the future mobile application's content and identify and categorize essential components. Through descriptive analysis, five overarching themes emerged, serving as guiding principles for conceptual data model development and refinement. These findings confirmed the significance of integrating a comprehensive glossary complemented by photos, ensuring compatibility between the mobile application and existing documentation systems, and providing quick access to information to avoid burdening work routines. Subsequently, the algorithm was created from the qualitative data collected. The second phase involved presenting an online SurveyMonkey® questionnaire to 34 participants who were not part of the initial phase to quantitatively measure the usability of this algorithm among future users. This phase revealed very positive feedback regarding the usability [score of 6.33 (±0.19) on a scale of 1–7], which reinforces its quality. The technology maturation process can now continue with the development of a prototype and subsequent validation in a laboratory setting.