Abstract
Background and Aim:
Patients diagnosed with gynecological cancers often face a range of complications that can impact their quality of life and increase their anxiety. Nursing models combined with mobile phone applications have the potential to improve outcomes for these patients. This study aimed to assess the impact of a continuous care model utilizing a smartphone application on quality of life and anxiety levels among gynecologic cancer patients.
Methods
This study involved two phases: (1) mobile app development and (2) implementation of the intervention. The two-group randomized controlled trial included 70 participants with gynecological cancers referred to medical centers affiliated with Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The participants were randomized into control or intervention groups (n = 35 per group) on the basis of predetermined criteria, but during the study, there was one dropout in each group. Finally, 68 patients completed the trial. The intervention group received an 8-week intervention incorporating the continuous care model, whereas the control group received routine care. The participants completed the Spielberger state-trait anxiety and quality of life (QLQ-C30) questionnaires before, immediately after, and two months after the intervention. The data were analyzed via the chi-square test, independent samples t-test, analysis of covariance, and repeated-measures ANOVA.
Results
In the first phase, the mobile app was designed to meet patient requirements. In the second phase, the results revealed no significant differences in the baseline data between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed immediately and two months after the intervention (P < 0.05). Intragroup comparisons in the intervention group revealed significant differences in trait anxiety, state anxiety, and quality of life before, immediately after and two months after the intervention (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The intervention improved quality of life and reduced anxiety in patients with gynecological cancers. Therefore, this approach can be incorporated into routine care to support patients, and it is recommended for nurses, health care providers, and physicians.
Trial registration:
The study was registered as a randomized controlled trial in the Clinical Trial Registration Center of Iran. Registration Date: 2024-02-14, Registration Number: IRCT20231107059977N1.