Evaluating the effectiveness of ChemoNurse: a mobile chemotherapy drug guide for cancer nurses - a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile chemotherapy drug guide application, ChemoNurse, developed for cancer nurses, in improving their knowledge and attitudes toward chemotherapy practices. Methods: A randomized controlled trial with a repeated-measures design was conducted with 59 nurses (29 intervention, 30 control) who participated. Nurses in the intervention group used the ChemoNurse mobile application for six months, while the control group received no additional intervention. Data was collected using the Chemotherapy Practice Knowledge Scale and the Attitude Scale for Chemotherapy Practices at baseline, 3rd month, and 6th month. Statistical analyses included repeated measures ANOVA to examine group, time, and interaction effects. Results: Significant improvements were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group in total knowledge scores (p < 0.001). Subscale analyses revealed significant time effects in domains such as Creating a Safe Environment (p < 0.001), and Procurement and Administration of Chemotherapy Drugs (p < 0.001). The Treatment Planning and Patient Education subscale showed significant group (p < 0.001) and interaction effects (p < 0.001). In terms of attitudes, the intervention group demonstrated a significant decrease in negative attitudes (p < 0.001) and a significant increase in positive attitudes (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The ChemoNurse mobile application significantly improved cancer nurses' knowledge and professional attitudes regarding chemotherapy administration. These findings highlight the potential of mobile technologies as effective, scalable tools for enhancing clinical competence and supporting safe, evidence-based cancer nursing practice.