Free interactive counselling program in a mobile communication application for improving health education on indwelling ureteric stents after ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy: An observational study

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the potential benefit of an interactive counselling program via a mobile application (app), which can instantly provide patients with the necessary information and correct response regarding their condition.

Methods: We designed a free 'Ureteric Stent Interactive Program' for patients receiving ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy and provided the program to interested patients. Patient data were collected from medical records and depending on whether patients used our program, they were divided into two groups: 'program-user' and 'non-user'. The differences between the groups were analysed using Fisher's exact tests.

Results: Of the 70 patients, 50 elected to use the program. The program-user group was significantly younger (<60 years: 74% vs 15%, P<0.001) and had higher education levels (40% vs 5%, P = 0.004). All 50 patients in the program-user group reported being satisfied (32%) or very satisfied (68%) with the program. Patients over 60 years were significantly more satisfied with program (35.5% vs 6.3%, P = 0.04).

Conclusions: Younger patients with high education levels were more likely to use the app and improve their health knowledge. Using the program resulted in high satisfaction, especially among older patients. This study demonstrates the benefits of interactive application for educating patients regarding their health.

Keywords: Double-j ureteric stent; mobile communication application; patient education; tele-medicine; ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy.

Figure 1.

Example of a ‘ureteric stent interactive counselling program’ line application.