Development and testing of a text messaging (SMS) monitoring software application for acute decompensated heart failure patients

Abstract

Objective: to develop and test an SMS monitoring software application for patients with acute decompensated heart failure. Method: the waterfall model was used for software development. All expected functionalities were defined, program modules were codified and tests were done so as to ensure good performance by the software application. Ten patients participated in the prototype test. Results: the system sends two types of messages: questions that should be answered by patients and unilateral educational reinforcements. In addition, the system generates alarms in case of no response or according to a flow chart to detect congestion in the patient previously created by the team. Of the 264 SMS texts sent, 247 were answered. The alarm was triggered seven times: three patients woke up with shortness of breath for two consecutive nights, and four patients felt more fatigued for two consecutive days. All patients took the prescribed medications during follow-up. The study nurse guided the patients who generated alarms in the system. Conclusion: the SMS software application was successfully developed and a high response rate and preliminary evidence of improvements in self-management of HF were observed. With this regard, telehealth is a promising alternative in the treatment of chronic diseases

Tulane STAR (Sending Texts, Advancing Results): impact of text messaging on bariatric post-operative protocol compliance

“…There is also evidence that text message reminders can be used for pre-operative optimization for improved outcomes [12]. A number of programs involved in the post-discharge setting have been developed including postpartum care, post-operative care, and treatment of chronic heart failure and hypertension [13][14][15][16]. These programs also support the notion that text messaging with patients can serve to educate, remind about key components of care, and provide positive feedback.…”

Use of Electronic Messages in the Follow-Up of Patients With Heart Failure: Randomized Pilot Study

“…11 However, there is disagreement about the effectiveness of non-invasive methods in reducing hospitalizations and deaths of patients with HF, and this type of monitoring is not yet part of any guideline or consensus. 9 - 12 , 18 - 20 …”

“…An American study evaluated a Short Message Service (SMS) intervention in hospitalized patients with decompensated heart failure. 9 Self-care and education messages about diet, symptom recognition and syndrome management were sent like our study. The intervention was associated with significant improvements in self-care and maintenance of clinical compensation.…”

“…The intervention was associated with significant improvements in self-care and maintenance of clinical compensation. 9 However, Chen et al found different results using a similar approach. At a short-term follow-up (30 days), there was no difference in clinical outcomes between the groups studied.…”

“…[5][6][7] It can be invasive (eg, implantable devices) or non-invasive-such as telephone calls, emails, video calls, and text messages via cell phone. 5,8 Although clinical trials of non-invasive TMO have conflicting results, [9][10][11][12] meta-analyses involving observational and randomized studies have shown positive results in the prognosis of patients with HF, including reduced hospitalizations, mortality and improved quality of life. 5,6,8,13 During the COVID-19 pandemic, many barriers to telemedicine have disappeared.…”