Usability of APIMedOlder: A Web Application to Manage Potentially Inappropriate Medication in Older Adults

Abstract

Introduction: Considering the increase in the proportion of the older population worldwide, the demand for health system resources also arises. These tools optimize clinical decision-making, thus avoiding iatrogenesis and thus contributing to a better quality of life for the older population. In response, we created an online web application, the APIMedOlder, that provides access to healthcare professionals to allow healthcare professionals to access potentially inappropriate medication identification criteria through a useful tool with a simplified profile, allowing its applicability in clinical practice. This study aims to assess the usability of the APIMedOlder online web application by healthcare professionals.

Methods: A questionnaire, based on the System Usability Scale, was distributed among 15 healthcare professionals (five pharmacists, four physicians, three pharmacy technicians, and three nurses), to fully explore the website.

Results: Overall, healthcare professionals' evaluation of the usability of the APIMedOlder online web application was rated as "Best imaginable" (mean score of 87.17 points), with individual scores ranging from 75 to 100 points. Internal consistency of α = 0.881 (CI 95%: 0.766 - 0.953) was achieved. Specific questionnaire items contributing to this high score included ease of use, learning efficiency, and integration of functions.

Conclusion: The overall evaluation of the developed tool was positive, with this online application being recognized as being easy to use and having well-integrated functions.

Keywords: Aged; Clinical; Decision Support Systems; Inappropriate Prescribing/prevention & control; Internet; Medication Errors/prevention & control; Potentially Inappropriate Medication List.