Preferences and perspectives of MS nurses and patients with multiple sclerosis regarding the new RebiSmart® 3.0 autoinjector versus other assistive devices

Abstract

Background RebiSmart® is an electromechanical multidose autoinjector developed for administering subcutaneous interferon β-1a in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). This online survey aimed to understand MS nurses’ and pwMS preferences and perceptions regarding the features of an upgraded version of the RebiSmart device (RebiSmart 3.0) compared to other assistive devices used for multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. Patients and methods: Eligible MS nurses and pwMS from Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom completed a double-blind, 30-minute online self-administered questionnaire, including a 10-minute video describing the features of RebiSmart 3.0 and its use in administering interferon β-1a. Results In total, 102 participants (MS nurses, n = 52; patients, n = 50) completed the survey. Overall, 70% respondents found the RebiSmart 3.0 device “very”/“extremely” appealing, 53% were “very”/“extremely” interested in learning more, and 71% stated they would be “very”/“extremely” comfortable using (pwMS) or educating (MS nurses) on it. Respondents ranked customizable injection process (including injection speed, hold time, depth and rotation guide), self-injection process, and hidden needle as the most important self-assistive device features. RebiSmart 3.0 was rated higher than other self-injecting devices on all tested features. After reviewing the video, 52% respondents had no questions, 67% nurses recommended providing more information on the customizable injection process feature of RebiSmart 3.0 to patients, and 88% nurses considered patient demonstration materials to be the most helpful type of information for them when initiating and educating pwMS on self-assistive devices. Conclusions The overall reactions of MS nurses and pwMS to the RebiSmart 3.0 device features were positive. The incremental advances over previous versions of the device as well as in comparison with other currently available assistive devices were welcomed. The MS nurses identified key needs for patient education on the use of the device and the suitable approaches (training videos and educational leaflets) to support MS nurses and pwMS.