Essential IV states that “DNP graduates are distinguished by their abilities to use information systems/technology to support and improve patients and healthcare systems and provide leadership within healthcare systems and academia settings” (Zaccagnini, 2017). There are numerous apps available for patients to use in managing their healthcare. It is a function of the DNP to review apps that a patient may be interested in and give an informed recommendation.
I specifically looked up apps that address patients with diabetes type 2. After looking at the pros and cons of several apps, I believe the app “Glooko” is a user-friendly app to assist patients in their diabetes management. It is a product of “Accu-Chek” and is free. The app can be used on an I phone or Android. It can sync to blood glucose monitors, insulin pumps and wearable fitness trackers, all in real-time. It has an available database of over 200,000 foods including restaurants, to track nutrition. There is the ability to set personal reminders such as taking medication. It also gives feedback to the patient such as what day the patient had the best glucose control, frequency of highs and lows and a trend of blood glucose numbers over time. All of the information is then accessible online to the patient and healthcare provider and be synced to compatible EHR’s, decreasing data entry time and increasing time spent with the patients (Glooko, n.d.).
Our society is more mobile than ever and with so many products available. There is more opportunity than ever before for patients to use technology to assist them. Patients will seek our advice on what the best outcome will be for them. We will need to be diligent in keeping ourselves familiar with resources that can assist the patient in taking an active part in their care.
References
GlookoTM app for iPhone<sup>®</sup> and Android. (n.d.). Retrieved June 25,
2018, from https://www.accu-chek.com/data-management/glookotm-app-iphoner-and-android
Zaccagnini, M., & White, K. (2017). The Doctor of Nursing Practice Essentials. A New Model
for Advanced Practice Nursing. (3rd ed.). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.