User Interface Design and Usability Evaluation of a Mental Health Mobile Application for Healthcare Workers: A Nursing Informatics Perspective

Abstract

Objectives: The critical need for accessible mental health support for healthcare workers during pandemics underscores the importance of tailored interventions. This study aimed to derive user interface (UI) design elements and evaluate the usability of a mobile mental health application specifically crafted for healthcare professionals, focusing on nursing informatics.Methods: The mental healing app (mHealing app) interfaces were developed, emphasizing UI design elements derived from user requirements and guided by principles of nursing informatics. Usability was assessed using the Health Information Technology Usability Evaluation Scale (Health-ITUES).Results: Six nurses, including one specializing in nursing informatics, participated in both UI design derivation and usability pilot test, providing valuable insights from a nursing informatics perspective. The mHealing app offers personalized content delivery and facilitates connections to counselors based on users’ mental health states, supported by a self-diagnosis tool. The UI design prioritizes user-centered features and intuitive navigation, addressing healthcare workers’ unique challenges during pandemics. In the usability pilot test, the app scored high in impact, perceived usefulness, and ease of use, according to Health-ITUES.Conclusions: The mHealing app, developed with a focus on UI design elements informed by nursing informatics principles, effectively addresses the mental health care needs of healthcare workers during pandemics, particularly COVID-19. Engaging six nurses in usability pilot test, including one specializing in nursing informatics, the app demonstrates a user-centered approach and intuitive UI, promising a meaningful impact in clinical settings.