JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) is used to assess the nutritional status of patients in healthcare settings. Currently, MUST is available as an online tool or as a paper-based version, both of which can be subject to errors during use. There is a clear need to make malnutrition screening more automated and increase accessibility for healthcare professionals in all settings.

Objective:

This qualitative study explores the views of healthcare professionals on the content, functionality, and usability of a newly developed digital mobile application for MUST.

Methods:

A generic qualitative study of the newly developed MUST app. A series of online focus groups were conducted that explored the views of potential users on the content design, functionality, and usefulness of the app. Each focus group ran for approximately one hour using a semi-structured approach and pre-defined topic guide. Participants had the opportunity to look at the app on their phone prior to giving feedback and on-screen demonstration of the app was provided during the focus group. Data were managed using NVivo 12 and analysed using deductive and inductive Framework analysis.

Results:

Eight online focus groups were conducted between August 2022 and January 2023. Participants (n=32) were dietetic and nutrition healthcare professionals with experience of using MUST. Data analysis revealed three broad themes, which were: improving the app for better use in practice, user experience design and barriers and facilitators in different settings. Overall feedback for the app was positive with potential users considering it to be very useful for improving routine and accurate screening, particularly in the community. Participants generally considered the app to be for professional use only, stating that patients may find it too clinical or technical. Participants also made suggestions for app sustainability and improvements, such as the addition of more subjective measures and instructions on measuring ulna length.

Conclusions:

The MUST app was positively evaluated by potential users, who reported it was user-friendly and an accessible way to screen for malnutrition risk, whilst improving accuracy of screening and availability in community settings.