Nursing staff experiences of participating in digital therapeutic product development: a qualitative study

Digital therapeutics (DTx) have emerged as practical tools for optimizing disease management. Due to their clinical expertise, nurses are increasingly involved in the research and development (R&D) of these products. However, while the existing literature has primarily focused on the clinical efficacy of DTx, the lived experiences and specific challenges faced by nursing staff during the development process remain largely unexplored.

This qualitative study used purposive sampling to recruit 10 nursing staff members who participated in the full R&D lifecycle of DTx products. Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews and analyzed using conventional content analysis.

The qualitative analysis identified three major themes: (1) difficulties and challenges; (2) coping and professional transformations; and (3) needs and development. The first theme comprised subthemes including the existence of knowledge barriers, financial constraints, and challenges in team formation. The second theme included the lowering of standards, self-improvement, and seeking external assistance. The third theme addressed the cultivation of cross-specialty talent, the provision of policy support, and a focus on economic sustainability.

Nurses' participation in DTx product development faces multiple challenges, highlighting the need to strengthen the cultivation of cross-specialty talent and enhance policy guidance. Future efforts should focus on integrating digital technologies with healthcare to promote the high-quality development of digital health applications.