The Effect of Mobile Application-Assisted Nursing Services on Symptom Control in Breast Cancer Patients

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, accounting for approximately one-quarter of all female cancers in Turkey. Chemotherapy is widely used in treatment, but it also affects healthy cells, leading to numerous side effects such as fatigue, nausea, hair loss, sleep problems, and skin and nail changes. These side effects complicate symptom management and negatively impact patients' self-efficacy and quality of life. Mobile health applications allow patients to track their symptoms, communicate with healthcare professionals, and implement recommended non-pharmacological methods. Literature demonstrates that these applications reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and enhance self-efficacy. This research is a randomized controlled experimental trial designed to evaluate the effect of mobile app-assisted nursing services on symptom management in women diagnosed with breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy. The research will be conducted in the chemotherapy unit of a training and research hospital in Istanbul. The study will consist of two groups: an intervention group and a control group. Randomization will be conducted using a computer-assisted method (random.org). Based on the power analysis, 74 patients will be included in the sample for 85% power at a 95% confidence interval, a significance level of p\<0.05, and a medium effect size. Inclusion criteria include individuals aged 18 years and older, female, diagnosed with breast cancer, undergoing the 4AC-12 Paclitaxel protocol, owning and using a smartphone, and consenting to participate in the study. Exclusion criteria include patients with cardiac problems, liver or kidney failure, inability to use the mobile app, or providing incomplete data. Study data will be collected online via a mobile app. The results of the study will demonstrate the effectiveness of mobile health apps in symptom management, increasing self-efficacy, and improving quality of life.