The Promise of Mobile Health for Dialysis Patients: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), but it comes with challenges. The quality of life and survival rates of patients undergoing dialysis are closely tied to the quality of their treatment, which heavily relies on self-management. This study aims to explore the potential of mobile health (mHealth) to enhance self-management and improve outcomes for these patients.
Methods
The research team conducted a scoping review, following Arksey and O'Malley's methodology, PRISMA-ScR, and PRISMA-S guidelines. They searched databases like PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL for relevant studies from 2010 to 2025, focusing on adult patients on dialysis and mHealth interventions. The team used the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool to assess study quality and extracted key information from each study.
Results
The review included 34 studies with 2068 patients undergoing dialysis. Self-management covered six areas: self-monitoring, diet and fluid management, medication management, exercise management, psychological management, and disease-related knowledge. Most studies used a single app for management, with a few using online interventions or remote monitoring systems. The interventions focused on self-monitoring, dietary management, and medication management. The most common theories were the transtheoretical model and stages of change, self-efficacy theory, and social cognitive theory.
Discussion
mHealth interventions significantly improved self-management and patient outcomes. Apps and remote monitoring systems were more common than SMS and phone calls. Apps showed potential for improving medication adherence, care efficiency, and patient satisfaction. However, there's room for improvement in mHealth for dialysis patients, especially for middle-aged and older patients.
Conclusion
This study provides valuable insights for future research and app development. While mHealth has potential benefits, it needs further optimization. The findings offer guidance for enhancing self-management and improving quality of life for dialysis patients, contributing to the digital transformation of chronic disease management.
