Functional requirements of a mobile-based application for stroke self-management: A Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Stroke survivors require ongoing support for self-management and rehabilitation.
• Mobile applications offer a potential platform to deliver this support.
• Defining specific functional requirements is crucial for effective app development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the essential functional requirements for a self-management mobile application tailored to stroke survivors.
• To establish a consensus on these requirements among experts in the field.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining literature review and interviews with patients and caregivers.
• Delphi technique and content analysis for initial requirement extraction and refinement.
• Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) using the Lawshe model, followed by expert validation via Likert scale questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Key approved functional requirements include user account creation, educational materials, support services, and reminders for medication and appointments.
• Rehabilitation exercises targeting balance, upper/lower extremity function, and activities of daily living (ADLs) were prioritized.
• A significant focus was placed on upper limb motor function rehabilitation exercises.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully defined critical functional requirements for a stroke self-management app.
• The developed app should prioritize rehabilitation exercises and user support features.
• Certain requirements, such as splint/sling use and medication recommendations, were not approved by experts.