JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The content and evaluation criteria of mHealth-based self-management for dialysis patients are not known.

Objective:

To determine the current status of mHealth for self-management among dialysis patients.

Methods:

This study was guided by Arksey and O'Malley's methodology and the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases were systematically searched from January 2010 until April 2025. Studies were independently assessed for inclusion and exclusion criteria by two reviewers. Quantitative studies were extracted, mapped, and summarized. The results were collated and synthesized using a structured spreadsheet.

Results:

Of the 1340 studies identified, 30 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Self-management in this study consisted of six major areas, namely self-monitoring, diet and fluid management, medication management, knowledge management, exercise management, and psychological management. Most studies used an app for remote management of dialysis patients. The APP intervention focused on self-monitoring, diet and fluid management, and medication management. The transtheoretical model, self-efficacy theory and social cognitive theory are often used to guide the development of intervention programs.

Conclusions:

This scoping review summarizes the use of mHealth-based self-management in dialysis patients. Most of the existing studies have focused on hemodialysis patients and lack a focus on peritoneal dialysis patient. Future studies should enhance interventions for peritoneal dialysis patient, integrate AI technology in mHealth, and develop evaluation criteria for self-management to better assess clinical effectiveness.