The Use of Mobile Applications in Preventive Care and Health-Related Conditions: A Review of the Literature

The purpose of this review of literature is to understand the role of mobile device applications (apps) in health-related conditions and to analyze their effects on health outcomes related to the management of chronic illnesses. The author also explores implications for the future use of apps in patient-centered care and interpretation of the data by health care providers. Peer-reviewed, English-language research articles published from 2008 to present are included for synthesis. Study results reveal positive outcomes when health-related mobile apps were used in practice and support clinicians\u27 use of mobile apps as a tool for monitoring symptoms and communicating with individuals. The literature indicates nurses play a significant role in providing feedback, which reinforces self-care strategies and adherence with the potential for improving outcomes. Additional research is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of apps on patient outcomes, nurses\u27 perspectives, and feasibility of implementation into practice