{"id":16758,"date":"2026-06-21T18:17:00","date_gmt":"2026-06-21T18:17:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/?p=16758"},"modified":"2026-07-03T03:41:10","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T03:41:10","slug":"mobile-health-applications-utilizing-digital-tools-for-nurse-practitioners","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/?p=16758","title":{"rendered":"Mobile Health Applications: Utilizing Digital Tools for Nurse Practitioners"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"vs-topic\" topic=\"Mobile Health Applications: Utilizing Digital Tools for Nurse Practitioners\" link=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/?p=16758\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>by <a href=\"mailto:T00737673@mytru.ca\">Jillian Gourlay<\/a>, RN BSN, MN-NP Student<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Dr. Anila Virani, Assistant Professor, PhD, MN&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Dr. Lisa Creelman, Assistant Professor, DNP, MScN, NP <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em>Department of Nursing, Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops, British Columbia<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Citation: Gourlay, J., Virani, A. &amp; Creelman, L. (2026). Mobile health applications: Utilizing digital tools for nurse practitioners. Canadian Journal of Nursing Informatics, 21(2). https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/?p=16758<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"572\" src=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay-1024x572.png\" alt=\"Mobile Health Applications: Utilizing Digital Tools for Nurse Practitioners\n\n\" class=\"wp-image-16792\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay-1024x572.png 1024w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay-150x84.png 150w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay-768x429.png 768w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Jillian-Gourlay.png 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Abstract<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Aims: <\/strong>To identify and evaluate the quality of mobile applications (apps) that support Nurse Practitioners (NP) diagnostic reasoning, management planning, and relaxation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Design: <\/strong>Mobile application review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Methods: <\/strong>A search was conducted using the search terms: medical, clinical, diagnosis, anxiety, stress, and mindfulness. Apps were evaluated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). Inclusion criteria included, relevant to NPs, available in English, and compatible with Apple iOS. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Data Sources: <\/strong>Apple App Store was searched on June 1, 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Results: <\/strong>15 apps were evaluated after identifying 593 apps on initial search. The top-rated apps were MDCalc (4.45\/5) in the clinical resource category and Breathr (4.5\/5) in the health and wellness category. The lowest rated apps were Anti-Stress Breathing Exercise (3.1\/5) and PCRMs Nutrition Guide (3.6\/5).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Conclusion: <\/strong>High-quality apps exist to support NP clinical practice and well being, though quality varies. The MARS provides systematic evaluation of apps to utilize. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Implications for the profession: <\/strong>This review provides support for NPs utilizing apps to support clinical decision making and well being to optimize patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Impact: <\/strong>Time constraints and the limited availability of high-quality apps pose significant challenges for NPs seeking tools that support both clinical decision-making and mental health. This study addresses this gap by identifying 15 rigorously evaluated apps that can enhance clinical practice and promote psychological well-being among NPs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Reporting Method:<\/strong> This review adheres to the Preferred Reporting of Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Patient or Public Contribution: <\/strong>This study did not include patient or public involvement in its design, conduct, or reporting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Keywords: <\/strong>Mobile applications, clinical apps, health and wellness apps, clinical resources, Mobile App Rating Scale, Nurse Practitioners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What does this paper contribute to the wider global clinical community?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Identifies high-quality apps to support NPs clinical practice and well being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Summary Statement<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Why is this research or review needed?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>NPs require reliable apps to support clinical decision making and wellbeing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The vast number of poor-quality apps can make it challenging for NPs to identify high-quality apps, that support evidence-based resources for clinical practice as well as mental well being.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What are the key findings?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>There are no freely available apps available specifically for NPs included in this review.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Several freely available clinical and health and wellness apps were identified that align with the scope of NP practice and can support both clinical decision-making and mental health.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How should the findings be used to influence policy\/practice\/research\/education?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>NPs and application developers should collaborate to design digital tools that address clinical reasoning and wellbeing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Evaluation tools for apps should be updated to include assessing artificial intelligence generated content and ensuring clinical evidence quality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Background<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Mobile applications (apps) are easily accessible on smartphone and computer devices from any location. However, given the increasing number of apps available, it can be challenging for users to understand the quality and utility of these to support clinical care management. The purpose of this review is to ease the search for high-quality apps for Nurse Practitioners (NPs) across clinical resources and health and wellness categories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>NPs have been providing healthcare services worldwide for over half a century (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/978-3-031-20762-4_2\">Schober, 2023<\/a>). NPs are Registered Nurses who have completed advanced training at a master\u2019s degree level who diagnose and treat disease and illnesses, write orders and interpret diagnostic investigations, prescribe medications and treatments, and perform medical procedures within their scope (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cna-aiic.ca\/en\/nursing\/advanced-nursing-practice\/nurse-practitioners\">Canadian Nurses Association, 2024<\/a>). The NP role continues to grow and evolve in healthcare to provide optimal patient care. Many geographic areas struggle with primary care practitioner shortages, especially in rural areas. NPs have been filling some of these primary care roles, increasing longitudinal patient attachment and improving access to healthcare services (<a href=\"https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/health\/provincial-attachment-system\">Government of British Columbia, 2025<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is an increased demand for NP care provision however, health system needs can contribute to a high-stress work environment. NPs experience increased patient loads with heavier complexity, high responsibility for patient care outcomes, and minimal time for self-care. Clinical resource apps can help address practice challenges providing easily accessible evidence-based resources to enhance clinical decision making, patient safety, and practice efficacy. Health and wellness resource apps can aid in decreasing work stressors and support overall wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to the rising trend of smartphones, apps are a necessary resource with increasing integration into various clinical practice areas (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/JXX.0000000000000170\">Dodson et al., 2019<\/a>). Since 2019, NPs perceptions of adopting digital health tools have shifted, demonstrating increased engagement with these resources in practice (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/hsr2.70006\">Rony et al., 2024<\/a>). This has made the integration of apps into NP practice easier. However, apps vary considerably in quality and evidence-base, making app selection a critical consideration for clinical practice. The resources available to support this selection process differ based on employment models. NPs employed by health authorities may access institutional guidance or vetted app recommendations, while those in contract or independent practice positions must independently assess app quality and utility. This variation in support underscores the need for accessible evaluation frameworks to guide all NPs in selecting appropriate apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Health and wellness apps encourage users to take responsibility for their wellbeing (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/s12911-022-01784-y\">Nezamdoust et al., 2022a<\/a>). Stallter &amp; Gustin (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2021.07.003\">2021<\/a>) found that nurses using apps for reducing stress and promoting well-being were shown to be more effective in comparison to the control group that did not use apps. NPs provide patient education on managing stress levels and should also implement the same advice for themselves to mitigate burnout. NPs recommend strategies on reducing stress for patient\u2019s health such as doing mindfulness practices, meditation, journaling, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and exercise. Using apps that help with mindfulness and relaxation practices may help NPs integrate mental and physical health and wellness practices into their own lifestyle as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this review, the authors focused on two specific categories of apps: clinical resources and health and wellness. Apps that serve as clinical resources are designed to support evidence-based practice, streamline clinical decision-making, and enhance patient care. These apps typically offer quick access to up-to-date medical information, clinical guidelines, diagnostic tools, and drug databases. For NPs, such tools are especially valuable in fast-paced environments where timely decisions are critical. Apps focused on health and wellness are designed to support the personal well-being of healthcare professionals, including NPs, by promoting physical, emotional, and mental health. These apps can play a critical role in helping NPs manage stress, maintain healthy habits, and build resilience in demanding clinical environment (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2020.08.016\">Abraham et al., 2021<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Aims<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite the growing use of apps in healthcare settings, research on evaluating apps for NPs remains limited. Current literature on apps predominantly focuses on patients rather than healthcare providers (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmjgh-2017-000299\">O\u2019Reilly-Shah et al., 2017<\/a>), which leaves a gap in understanding which apps meet NP practice needs. As NPs are advanced practice providers, they require reliable tools that support clinical and diagnostic reasoning, treatment and management decision-making, as well as health and wellness resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This review aims to address a gap in the literature by identifying high-quality apps that NPs can use to support their clinical practice and mental wellbeing The specific objectives are to (1) identify clinical, and health and wellness apps relevant to NPs, and (2) evaluate the quality of these applications using the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">Stoyanov et al., 2015<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=25vBwJQIOcE\">Stoyanov, 2015<\/a>), thereby supporting informed decision-making in clinical settings and mental wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Methodology<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Apple Store was searched for apps using the eligibility criteria. An iPhone iOS version 18.6.2 was used for consistency. First, an initial screening of all apps (n = 593) was performed using the information available on the app store. Of 593, 15 apps met the eligibility criteria. The eligible apps were evaluated using MARS (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">Stoyanov et al., 2015<\/a>). The data for review was extracted from Apple Store description pages and from the apps themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Search strategy<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The authors searched for apps from the Apple Store on June 1, 2025, using the search terms: medical, clinical, diagnosis, anxiety, stress, and mindfulness. The authors initially attempted to use &#8220;Nurse Practitioners&#8221; as a search term; however, this yielded a number of irrelevant apps. Consequently, the search strategy was broadened to remove NP specific restrictions, allowing for the inclusion of apps applicable to general medical clinical practice that NPs could utilize. There are no freely available apps designed specifically for NPs included in this review. However, several freely available clinical and health and wellness apps were identified that align with the scope of NP practice that can support both clinical decision-making and mental health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The focus of this review was based on two categories that included clinical and health and wellness apps that NPs could benefit from using. The search was conducted on a personal iPhone 13 Pro Max; there were no options to set any app search filters. The MacBook desktop system showed limited options for iOS applications, therefore was not used for this research. All eligible apps within the health and wellness category are freely accessible to the public. In contrast, certain apps within the clinical category are available at no cost to the public or via NP credential validation, which may be granted through employer\/institutional credentials, professional licensure confirmation, or education program affiliation. The first author, currently enrolled as a NP student, was able to access and review these apps without charge due to their academic status. The three apps including UpToDate, RxFiles, and Pathways \u2013 Medical Knowledge was accessed through an institutional library subscription rather than open-access sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ethical Considerations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ethical considerations were not required for this study as it involved evaluation of publicly available apps available through the Apple Store and did not involve human participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Eligibility Criteria<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The eligible apps that were included were freely accessible to the public and via NP credential validation. The first author accessed these apps through their credential verification as an NP student, and it is important to note that the access may differ based on several factors including health authority policies, employment model, institutional affiliations, practice settings, and across geographical locations. Apps were also included if they were available in English, compatible with Apple iPhone iOS, and relevant to NPs. The initial search yielded a total of 593 apps. After removing 152 duplicate apps, 441 apps were screened by title, resulting in the exclusion of 100 apps at this stage. Apps were excluded if they were paid or the first author could not access the app through credential verification (n = 201), not relevant to NPs (n = 110), not available in English (n = 10), or not compatible with Apple iOS (n = 5). The final sample consisted of 15 apps that met all the eligible criteria (Figure 1).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Figure 1<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>PRISMA flow diagram of the systematic app selection and screening process. Adapted from Page et al. (<a href=\"http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmj.n71\">2021<\/a>).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Fig1.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"629\" height=\"665\" src=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Fig1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1\nPRISMA flow diagram of the systematic app selection and screening process\n\" class=\"wp-image-16978\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Fig1.png 629w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Fig1-284x300.png 284w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Fig1-142x150.png 142w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 629px) 100vw, 629px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mobile Application Rating Scale<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For the app review process, the MARS tool was used to rate the 15 eligible apps. Stoyanov et al. (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">2015<\/a>) developed the MARS to measure the quality of apps. The mean score indicates the overall quality of apps. The criteria for the app review included engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information. The first criterion, engagement, rates apps on entertainment, interest, customization, and target group. The second criterion functionality includes performance, ease of use, navigation, and gestural design. The third criterion aesthetics evaluates apps on layout, graphics, and visual appeal. The final criterion is information that involves accuracy of the app description, goals, information quality, visual information, credibility, and evidence based. Each criterion uses a five-point Likert scale with 1 as inadequate, 2 poor, 3 acceptable, 4 good, and 5 excellent. The individual criteria within the MARS scoring system allow researchers to evaluate each component separately and then aggregate the scores to generate an overall app quality rating. Researchers are advised to complete the MARS training prior to using the tool (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">Stoyanov et al., 2015<\/a>). The authors reviewed the official instructional video before conducting the app evaluation (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=25vBwJQIOcE\">Stoyanov, 2015<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Results<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Of the 593 apps identified in the initial search, only 2.5% (n = 15) met the quality criteria. All apps were free to the public or via NP credential validation. Apps included in this review were divided into two categories: clinical resources (n = 9) and health and wellness (n = 6). All eligible apps were available on the iOS platform and contained a privacy policy within the app itself or on the developer\u2019s official website. Less than half of the apps (n = 6; 40%) were updated within the last year, while the majority (n = 13; 87%) were free of advertisements or \u201cads\u201d. The lowest app rating on the app store was 3.1\/5, and the highest was 4.5\/5. Less than half of the apps (n =7; 47%) were rated above 4.0 by users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The mean MARS score was 3.92, median score 4.0, minimum score 3.1, and maximum score 4.5. Eight apps (53%) scored 4.0+, four apps (27%) scored 3.5-3.9, and three apps (20%) scored 3.0-3.4. The overall highest MARS score was 4.5\/5 for Breathr, and the lowest was 3.1\/5 for Anti Stress Breathing Exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 15 apps received MARS ratings between 3.1 and 4.5 out of 5. Most apps were rated high on information (mean score = 4.1, ranging from 2.8 to 4.8), followed by aesthetics (mean score = 4.0, ranging from 3.0 to 5.0), functionality (mean score = 3.9, ranging from 2.75 to 5.0), and engagement (mean score = 3.7, ranging from 2.6 to 4.6). Table 1 depicts the overall subscales scores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Table 1<\/strong><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>MARS Total Score and Subscale Scores<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td rowspan=\"2\"><strong>App Name<\/strong><\/td><td rowspan=\"2\"><strong>MARS Total Score<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\" colspan=\"4\"><strong>MARS Subscale Scores<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Engagement<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Functionality<\/strong><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><strong>Aesthetics<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Information<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/keltymentalhealth.ca\/breathr\">Breathr<\/a><\/td><td>4.5<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4.2<\/td><td>4.75<\/td><td>4.6<\/td><td>4.7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdcalc.com\/\">MDCalc: Medical Calculator<\/a><\/td><td>4.45<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.8<\/td><td>5.0<\/td><td>5.0<\/td><td>4.0<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smilingmind.com.au\/smiling-mind-app\">Smiling Mind<\/a><\/td><td>4.4<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4.6<\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td>4.3<\/td><td>4.7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/geekymedics.com\/\">Geeky Medics \u2013 OSCE revision<\/a><\/td><td>4.1<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4.2<\/td><td>4.25<\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td>4.2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/thrombosiscanada.ca\/app\">Thrombosis Canada<\/a><\/td><td>4.1<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4.0<\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td>4.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/temporary.pathway.md\/\">Pathway &#8211; Medical Knowledge<\/a><\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4<\/td><td>3.75<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>4.5<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/resourcespages\/mobileapps\">Merck Manual<\/a><\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.8<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>4.2<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/mindshift-cbt-anxiety-relief\/id634684825\">MindShift<\/a><\/td><td>4.0<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">4<\/td><td>4.5<\/td><td>3.3<\/td><td>4.4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/uptodate\/id334265345\">UpToDate<\/a><\/td><td>3.9<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">2.8<\/td><td>4.25<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>4.8<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medscape.com\/public\/medscapeapp\">Medscape<\/a><\/td><td>3.8<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.6<\/td><td>2.75<\/td><td>5<\/td><td>4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/genjo.app\/\">Genjo<\/a><\/td><td>3.7<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.8<\/td><td>3.75<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>3.4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/nutritionguide.pcrm.org\/nutritionguide\/mobile\">PCRMs Nutrition Guide<\/a><\/td><td>3.6<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.2<\/td><td>3.75<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>4.7<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rxfiles.ca\/rxfiles\/uploads\/documents\/rxfilesapps-webinfo.htm\">RxFiles<\/a><\/td><td>3.4<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.2<\/td><td>3.25<\/td><td>2.3<\/td><td>3.4<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/daylio.net\/\">Mood Tracker<\/a><\/td><td>3.2<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">3.8<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>3.3<\/td><td>2.8<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/anti-stress-breathing-exercise\/id1556434348\">Anti stress breathing exercise<\/a><\/td><td>3.1<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">2.6<\/td><td>4<\/td><td>3<\/td><td>3.1<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Brief Overview of Eligible Apps<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The 15 eligible apps included nine apps in the clinical resource category and six apps in the health and wellness category. Although the clinical resource apps included in this review were not exclusively developed for NPs, these apps provide NPs with evidence-based information to support clinical decision making, differential diagnoses, medication information, medical calculations, and treatment management plans. These apps support clinical practice by allowing NPs to access current evidence-based recommendations efficiently versus using traditional resources such as textbooks. Health and wellness apps offer stress management, mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, and mental health support to promote NP wellbeing and resilience. The authors presented comparison tables for each category to assist NPs in selecting apps based on their practice needs in the sections below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Clinical Resource Apps Category<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There were nine eligible clinical resource apps that were used in this review for NPs to utilize in practice. Table 2 displays the comparison between the nine clinical resource apps. The top app in this category was <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdcalc.com\/\">MDCalc<\/a>. This app is a free clinical resource app that NPs can utilize in practice to make evidence-based clinical decisions. MDCalc offers over 900 evidence-based calculators, algorithms, risk scores, and clinical tools for practitioners to use for patient care. This app scored the highest MARS score (4.45) out of the other clinical resource apps. The results showed perfect scores in functionality and aesthetics categories. This app scored lower in engagement (3.8) than in functionalism (5.0), which reflects its design as a task-specific clinical tool rather than an app intended for entertainment use. This apps engagement score indicates a design appropriate for a clinical calculator, where NPs can access the resource rather than having unnecessary interactions. MDCalc is shown to be a strong clinical resource app for NPs to utilize into their daily practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The second highest rated app in this category was the <a href=\"https:\/\/thrombosiscanada.ca\/app\">Thrombosis Canada mobile app<\/a>, developed by Thrombosis Canada which is a nonprofit organization with the goal to assist practitioners with clinical decision making. The Thrombosis Canada MARS score (4.1), demonstrated consistency across the four subscale scores, being particularly strong in the information category (4.5). This app provides clinical guides developed by recognized professional experts, College of Family Physicians of Canada members, and the Thrombosis Canada clinical guide committee. Although this app was designed for a broad audience of healthcare practitioners, the app is highly applicable to NPs in clinical practice when NPs assess and manage thromboembolic conditions. The app has interactive clinical tools for diagnosis, treatment, risk assessment, comprehensive guidelines, and patient education resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, the lowest app in this category was the <a href=\"https:\/\/nutritionguide.pcrm.org\/nutritionguide\/mobile\">PCRMS Nutrition Guide (3.6) app<\/a>, featuring nutrition for disease prevention and treatment content developed by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Unbound Medicine. The PCRMS Nutrition Guide scored particularly low in the aesthetics subscale (3.0) despite having a strong functionality subscale rating (3.75). This app provides evidence-based nutritional recommendations organized by medical condition and disease. However, the apps list-based format, outdated design, and lack of visuals made it less engaging. Although, this app was primary designed for physicians, it is a valuable resource for NPs by supporting nutrition counseling and dietary management across various healthcare settings. Table 2 provides a detailed comparison of the nine clinical resource across multiple features to assist NPs in selecting high quality apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Table 2<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Clinical Resource Apps Comparison Table<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"567\" src=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2-1024x567.png\" alt=\"Table 2\nClinical resource apps comparison table \n\" class=\"wp-image-17003\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2-1024x567.png 1024w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2-300x166.png 300w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2-150x83.png 150w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2-768x425.png 768w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table2.png 1098w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Click for larger view<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Health and Wellness Apps Category<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>NPs often face significant demands in their professional roles, which can contribute to stress and compassion fatigue (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.outlook.2024.102188\">de Lisser et al., 2024<\/a>). Health and wellness apps may offer supportive resources to mitigate these challenges. Six eligible apps were identified in this category. Although not specifically designed for healthcare providers, these applications promote well-being by offering accessible mental health tools that can be used at any time, particularly benefiting users through their ease of access on mobile devices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The top app in this category was <a href=\"https:\/\/keltymentalhealth.ca\/breathr\">Breathr<\/a> (MARS score; 4.5\/5). This app scored highest in the functionality subscale (4.75) and aesthetics subscale (4.6) This app is visually appealing with the design focusing on simplicity and blue, green, and yellow tones that create a mindful space. The app provides guided meditations that vary from 2 to 10 minutes led by physicians. Additionally, the app offers meditations that are customizable to users, journaling options, and filtering topic options for meditations. The app&#8217;s strong engagement score (4.2) reflects its appealing design and user experience, developed by the BC Children&#8217;s Hospital Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre in collaboration with the Centre for Mindfulness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smilingmind.com.au\/smiling-mind-app\">Smiling Mind<\/a> was the second top rated app (MARS score; 4.4\/5) in this category with strong scores in engagement (4.6) and information (4.7). Smiling Mind was developed by the Smiling Mind Australian nonprofit organization. It was created for mental health awareness for all users. This app provides guided and self-directed meditations, progress tracking, customization sessions created by psychologists and mental health experts. Both of these top apps are free to the public and provide a variety of different mindfulness practices to help individuals well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast, the lowest rated app was the <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/anti-stress-breathing-exercise\/id1556434348\">Anti Stress Breathing Exercise (3.1)<\/a> one. This app scored low in engagement (2.6) and information (3.1), despite having a higher functionality score (4.0). The focus for this app was breathing techniques without additional meditation guided sessions or mindfulness resources. Table 3 provides a detailed comparison of six health and wellness apps across multiple features to assist NPs in selecting high quality apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Table 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Health and Wellness Apps Comparison Table<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3.png\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"234\" src=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3-1024x234.png\" alt=\"Table 3\nHealth and Wellness Apps Comparison Table \n\" class=\"wp-image-17017\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3-1024x234.png 1024w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3-300x68.png 300w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3-150x34.png 150w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3-768x175.png 768w, https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Gourlay-Table3.png 1048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Click for larger view<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Discussion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This review evaluated 15 apps using the MARS tool to support a search for quality clinical resources and psychosocial tools that may help mitigate job-related stress and enhance well-being among NPs. The integration of apps into clinical practice offers significant potential for NPs. Out of 593 apps reviewed, only 15 met the inclusion criteria. This highlights a concern regarding the overall quality, reliability, and affordability of apps. While apps are increasingly recognized as valuable tools for supporting evidence-based clinical practice and wellbeing, substantial barriers must be addressed to optimize their adoption and effective use in NP practice (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/43808\">Giebel et al., 2023<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/s12911-022-01784-y\">Nezamdoust et al., 2022a<\/a>). This discussion examines three primary barriers identified through MARS evaluation that may limit app adoption:(1) evidence-based content validity (2) usability and functionality and (3) access and privacy barriers. Understanding these barriers is essential for developing apps that can support NP practice and their mental wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Evidence-Based Content Validity Barriers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Apps continue to face significant adoption barriers, primarily due to insufficient regulatory oversight and available apps lacking evidence-based foundations (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pmrj.2017.02.018\">Kao &amp; Liebovitz, 2017<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4258\/hir.2021.27.4.267\">Zakerabasali et al., 2021<\/a>). The validity of apps must meet evidence-based clinical standards while ensuring accuracy (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s13142-014-0293-9\">Boudreaux et al., 2014<\/a>). Terhorst et al. (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0241480\">2020<\/a>) found that 94.8% of apps lacked evidence-based information, with only 5% evaluated in published scientific literature. This finding aligns with this study\u2019s review results, where the scarcity of apps meeting inclusion criteria reflects the broader quality challenges in the app marketplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Catapan et al. (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41746-025-01510-8\">2025<\/a>) completed a systematic review that found user engagement is based on trust, with 40.8% of studies identifying it as critical to adoption, particularly regarding data accuracy and intervention quality. This trust barrier was evident in the information quality scores observed across evaluated apps. The clinical resource app <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/uptodate\/id334265345\">UpToDate<\/a> achieved the highest score on information (4.8\/5), which exemplifies the evidence-based resources validated by healthcare professionals. This app uses peer-reviewed research for clinical recommendations, which addresses the validity concerns that practitioners may have when using apps in their clinical practice. Studies have shown that apps with verified, evidence-based content demonstrate higher rates of sustained use among healthcare providers and build the trust necessary for clinical adoption (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41746-025-01510-8\">Catapan et al., 2025<\/a>). In contrast, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rxfiles.ca\/rxfiles\/uploads\/documents\/rxfilesapps-webinfo.htm\">RxFiles<\/a> had a lower information score (3.4\/5) due to the broader content, which may result in less depth or detail in certain areas compared to more focused content. If apps do not provide evidence-based resources, it lowers validity and confidence in using the app to provide competent clinical decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Usability and Functionality Barriers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;,serif\">Usability emerged as another technological barrier among the evaluated apps, with functionality scores ranging from 2.75 (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.medscape.com\/public\/medscapeapp\">Medscape<\/a>) to 5.0 (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdcalc.com\/\">MDCalc<\/a>). Apps with high functionality scores demonstrate clear information without technical problems, which is ideal for busy NPs that need quick access to resources. Technology related barriers were addressed by universal offline functionality offered by all evaluated apps. However, Giebel et al. (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/43808\">2023<\/a>) noted that inadequate storage devices, battery life, and software problems can lead to practitioner errors, especially when the apps require large downloads for offline use. While all evaluated apps offered offline functionality, the variation in usability scores suggests that technical performance alone is insufficient for sustained adoption. <\/span> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Customization capabilities have been shown to significantly influence healthcare provider app adoption and sustained use. The literature demonstrates that apps offering personalized features and customizable interfaces achieve higher user satisfaction and retention rates among practitioners compared to apps with limited customization abilities (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/01972243.2018.1438550\">Bol et al., 2018<\/a>). Healthcare providers highlight the importance of customization features such as the ability to adjust notification preferences, content displays, and personalize clinical tools to match individual preferences (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1460458219896492\">Alqahtani &amp; Orji, 2020<\/a>). In this review, health and wellness apps such as <a href=\"https:\/\/keltymentalhealth.ca\/breathr\">Breathr<\/a> provided users with the ability to customize their meditation sessions, while <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/anti-stress-breathing-exercise\/id1556434348\">Anti Stress Breathing Exercise<\/a> lacked this option. The ability to match app features to individual preferences has been identified as a critical factor in healthcare provider app adoption. By having customization features, an app can enhance practitioners\u2019 sense of autonomy and control over their digital tools. Inadequate user interfaces create barriers for NPs to easily navigate apps and use them consistently in daily practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Access and Privacy Barriers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Access requirements and credential validation processes represent significant implementation barriers for clinical resource apps. Apps requiring institutional validation or professional credentials to verify provider status can create administrative burdens that decrease adoption rates (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4258\/hir.2021.27.4.267\">Zakerabasali et al., 2021<\/a>). In this review, three apps including <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/uptodate\/id334265345\">UpToDate<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rxfiles.ca\/rxfiles\/uploads\/documents\/rxfilesapps-webinfo.htm\">RxFiles<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/temporary.pathway.md\/\">Pathways \u2013 Medical Knowledge<\/a> require institutional validation or professional credentials to verify access for NPs. This exemplifies how the validation processes, while ensuring appropriate use by qualified professionals may discourage uptake among busy practitioners who face time constraints in their workflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Data privacy concerns have been documented as significant barriers to app adoption. Research indicates that apps requiring user login and personal information collection raise privacy concerns among users, potentially limiting adoption (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4258\/hir.2021.27.4.267\">Zakerabasali et al., 2021<\/a>). Healthcare providers\u2019 concern about apps are focused around collecting sensitive professional information. In the current review, most of the health and wellness apps did not require users to login. These apps allowed access without creating an account and entering personal information, which may reduce privacy-related concerns for providers seeking to incorporate tools into their professional practice. The contrast between clinical resource apps and health and wellness apps suggests that privacy considerations vary depending on app purpose and content sensitivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Implications for Practice<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>These findings have important implications for NPs in clinical practice due to the limited availability of high-quality apps. This represents a significant gap in having available clinical resources for NPs. Despite the abundance of available options in app stores, very few meet the standards necessary for safe and effective use in clinical practice or health and wellbeing support. The volatile nature of the app marketplace presents additional challenges for sustained clinical integration. Apps can become outdated quickly, and new ones are frequently introduced requiring ongoing evaluation. This dynamic nature necessitates regular reviews and updates to ensure continued relevance and quality assurance so that recommended apps remain current and reliable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apps offer benefits such as clinical decision-making support, enhanced accuracy, increased productivity, and better time management (<a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4029126\/\">Ventola, 2014<\/a>), with healthcare workers reporting improved productivity, time management, efficiency, and knowledge accessibility in clinical practice (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news\/item\/27-07-2023-digital-tools-positively-impact-health-workers--performance--new-who-study-shows\">World Health Organization, 2023<\/a>). The scarcity of quality options may hinder NPs\u2019 ability to fully utilize these apps. The barriers identified in this review must be addressed by both app developers and researchers to optimize adoption in practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By developing high-quality apps that offer clinically evidence-based resources, patient care in NP practice can be improved. App developers should collaborate with all healthcare providers, including NPs, during the design process to ensure appropriate information that aligns with clinical and workflow demands. Developers should prioritize evidence-based content validated by healthcare professionals, intuitive user interfaces that allow NPs to personalize tools to their preferences, and transparent access requirements that balance security with ease of use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For researchers, the findings emphasize the importance of ongoing evaluation of apps and continued investigation into barriers affecting NP adoption. Future research should examine how specific design features influence sustained use among NPs and explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in clinical apps. When apps utilize AI generated content, NPs must critically appraise the quality of evidence such as expert evidence versus systematic reviews, as peer reviewed citations do not automatically ensure clinical significance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite these challenges, apps remain an invaluable resource for enhancing patient outcomes when appropriately designed and implemented (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cnps.ca\/article\/mobile-healthcare-apps\/\">Canadian Nurses Protective Society, 2024<\/a><\/strong>). The apps that did meet the inclusion criteria in this review demonstrate that this is achievable to obtain. NPs should use apps that are a reliable source, ensure knowledge on how to use, and recognize that apps complement rather than replace clinical decision making. NPs must evaluate apps using different sources such as app store reviews, evidence-based literature, professional recommendations, and personal assessment of app content quality and applicability. Apps will eventually replace traditional textbook resources, this transition is based on improvement of quality, reliability, and clinical relevance of available apps to ensure success. The findings of this review show that developers and NPs need to work together to create high-quality NP focused apps to improve patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Limitations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The limitations in this apps review were the Apple app store search limitations. On a personal iOS Apple mobile device, it did not allow search filters to be applied. The eligible apps criteria could potentially have missed quality apps in the search. There is a rapid growth in apps that could changing the availability, criteria, and quality of apps in this review. There may be reviewer bias as the primary author has used some of the eligible apps found. Additionally, apps are constantly evolving and may change their mobile layout, information, settings, cost, and availability to users.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The first author is a NP student, which may present as another limitation, since the appraisal of the app information as quality or representative of strong evidence-based recommendations may be limited. The MARS official training video explicitly states that this should be completed by an expert. Also, the NP student had limited knowledge on the different free access to apps for health authority NPs versus privately contracted NPs prior to conducting the research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As well, the <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">MARS tool<\/a> was developed in 2015 prior to AI integration in apps. The MARS information quality subscale may not accurately capture AI specific concerns. At least one app in this review, <a href=\"https:\/\/temporary.pathway.md\/\">Pathways-Medical Knowledge<\/a> utilizes AI generated content. However, the MARS tool lacks criteria to evaluate how AI formulates clinical queries, sources information, or ensures evidence quality. As AI-powered clinical apps become increasingly prevalent, updated evaluation tools are needed that specifically assess AI considerations to ensure NPs can confidently integrate these digital tools into evidence-based practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The adoption of apps into NP clinical practice represents a significant shift in how healthcare professionals\u2019 access and apply clinical knowledge. While these apps offer advantages that include cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and readily accessible evidence-based information, they ultimately enhance patient outcomes. Current evidence further reveals critical gaps that require attention to ensure this (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0265927\">Chandran et al., 2022<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/17449871221077080\">Nezamdoust et al., 2022b<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These gaps focus on how apps specifically impact NP clinical practice, outcomes, and professional wellbeing over time. The current research focuses mostly on knowledge attainment rather than sustained behavioural change or measurable improvements in patient care quality (<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/17449871221077080\">Nezamdoust et al., 2022b<\/a>). This gap is concerning given the quick growth of these resources and their potential to enhance patient outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>NPs should approach apps as supplementary digital tools that support clinical reasoning in their practice but never replace clinical reasoning and compassionate care. The ongoing integration of these resources is warranted but must be accompanied by comprehensive evaluation of their long-term impact on practice quality, patient outcomes, and wellbeing. As the healthcare system continues to evolve, NPs must carefully select user-friendly, evidence-based digital resources that support clinical decision-making and wellbeing, ensuring technology serves to enhance rather than substitute clinical judgment, which is vital for quality patient care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>References<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>247 Labs Inc. (n.d). MindShift CBT \u2013 Anxiety Relief app. https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/mindshift-cbt-anxiety-relief\/id634684825<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Abraham, C. M., Zheng, K., Norful, A. A., Ghaffari, A., Liu, J., &amp; Poghosyan, L. (2021). Primary care practice environment and burnout among nurse practitioners. <em>Journal of Nurse Practitioners, 17<\/em>(2), 157-162.e3. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2020.08.016\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2020.08.016<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alhammad, N., Alajlani, M., Abd-alrazaq, A., Epiphaniou, G., &amp; Arvanitis, T. (2024). Patients\u2019 perspectives on the data confidentiality, privacy, and security of mHealth apps: Systematic review. <em>Journal of Medical Internet Research<\/em>, 26, 1\u201320. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/50715\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/50715<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alqahtani, F., &amp; Orji, R. (2020). Insights from user reviews to improve mental health apps. <em>Health Informatics Journal, 26<\/em>(3), 2041-2066. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1460458219896492\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/1460458219896492<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>BC Children&#8217;s Centre for Mindfulness and BC Children&#8217;s Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre, (n.d.) <em>Breathr app<\/em>. https:\/\/keltymentalhealth.ca\/breathr<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bol, N., Helberger, N., &amp; Weert, J. C. M. (2018). Differences in mobile health app use: A source of new digital inequalities? <em>Information Society, 34<\/em>(3), 183\u2013193. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/01972243.2018.1438550\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1080\/01972243.2018.1438550<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Boudreaux, E. D., Waring, M. E., Hayes, R. B., Sadasivam, R. S., Mullen, S., &amp; Pagoto, S. (2014). Evaluating and selecting mobile health apps: Strategies for healthcare providers and healthcare organizations. <em>Translational Behavioral Medicine, 4<\/em>(4), 363\u2013371. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s13142-014-0293-9\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s13142-014-0293-9<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Canadian Nurses Association. (2024). <em>Nurse practitioners.<\/em>&nbsp; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cna-aiic.ca\/en\/nursing\/advanced-nursing-practice\/nurse-practitioners\">https:\/\/www.cna-aiic.ca\/en\/nursing\/advanced-nursing-practice\/nurse-practitioners<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Canadian Nurses Protective Society. (2024). InfoLAW: Mobile healthcare apps<strong>. <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/cnps.ca\/article\/mobile-healthcare-apps\/\">https:\/\/cnps.ca\/article\/mobile-healthcare-apps\/<\/a>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Catapan, S. d. C., Sazon, H., Zheng, S., Gallegos-Rejas, V., Mendis, R., Santiago, P. H. R., &amp; Kelly, J. T. (2025). A systematic review of consumers\u2019 and healthcare professionals\u2019 trust in digital healthcare. <em>NPJ Digital Medicine, 8<\/em>(1), 1\u20139. <a href=\"file:\/\/\/C:\/Users\/lcreelman\/AppData\/Local\/Microsoft\/Windows\/INetCache\/Content.Outlook\/LDL83CPQ\/Soraia%20de%20Camargo%20Catapan,%20Hannah%20Sazon,%20Sophie%20Zheng,%20Victor%20Gallegos-Rejas,%20Roshni%20Mendis,%20Pedro%20H.%20R.%20Santiago%20&amp;%20Jaimon%20T.%20Kelly\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1038\/s41746-025-01510-8<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chandran, V. P., Balakrishnan, A., Rashid, M., Pai Kulyadi, G., Khan, S., Devi, E. S., Nair, S., &amp; Thunga, G. (2022). Mobile applications in medical education: A systematic review and meta-analysis. <em>PLoS ONE, 17<\/em>(3), e0265927. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0265927\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0265927<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Daylio Self-Care Bullet Journal with Goals Mood Diary &amp; Happiness Tracker app<\/em>. (n.d.). https:\/\/daylio.net\/<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>de Lisser, R., Lauderdale, J., Dietrich, M. S., Ramanujam, R., &amp; Stolldorf, D. P. (2024). The social ecology of burnout: A framework for research on nurse practitioner burnout. <em>Nursing Outlook, 72<\/em>(4). <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.outlook.2024.102188\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.outlook.2024.102188<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dodson, C. H., Baker, E., &amp; Bost, K. (2019). Thematic analysis of nurse practitioners use of clinical decision support tools and clinical mobile apps for prescriptive purposes.&nbsp;<em>Journal of the American Association of Nurse <\/em><em>Practitioners<\/em><em>, 31<\/em>(9), 522-526. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/JXX.0000000000000170\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/JXX.0000000000000170<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Geeky Medics. (n.d.). <em>OSCE revision app<\/em>. https:\/\/geekymedics.com\/<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Giebel, G. D., Speckemeier C., Abels, C., Plescher, F., B\u00f6rchers, K., Wasem, J., Blas\u00e9, N., &amp; Neusser, S. (2023). Problems and barriers related to the use of digital health applications: Scoping review. <em>Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25<\/em>, e43808. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/43808\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/43808<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Government of British Columbia. (2025). <em>Provincial attachment system.<\/em> <a href=\"https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/health\/provincial-attachment-system\">https:\/\/www2.gov.bc.ca\/gov\/content\/health\/provincial-attachment-system<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kao, C. K., &amp; Liebovitz, D. M. (2017). Consumer mobile health apps: Current state, barriers, and future Directions. <em>PM&amp;R, 9<\/em>(5), S106\u2013S115. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pmrj.2017.02.018\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.pmrj.2017.02.018<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>MDCalc: Medical Calculator<\/em>. (2005). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdcalc.com\/\">https:\/\/www.mdcalc.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Medscape app<\/em>. (n.d.). https:\/\/www.medscape.com\/public\/medscapeapp<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Merck Manual. (2026). <em>Mobile apps.<\/em> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/resourcespages\/mobileapps\">https:\/\/www.merckmanuals.com\/professional\/resourcespages\/mobileapps<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nezamdoust, S., Abdekhoda, M., &amp; Rahmani, A. (2022a). Determinant factors in adopting mobile health application in healthcare by nurses. <em>BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making<\/em>, 22(47), 1-10. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/s12911-022-01784-y\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1186\/s12911-022-01784-y<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nezamdoust, S., Abdekhoda, M., Ranjbaran, F., &amp; Azami-Aghdash, S. (2022b). Adopting mobile health applications by nurses: A scoping review. <em>Journal of Research in Nursing<\/em><em>, 27<\/em>(5), 480-491. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/17449871221077080\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1177\/17449871221077080<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>O\u2019Reilly-Shah, V., Easton, G., &amp; Gillespie, S. (2017). Assessing the global reach and value of a provider-facing healthcare app using large-scale analytics. <em>BMJ Global Health, 2<\/em>(3), e000299. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmjgh-2017-000299\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmjgh-2017-000299<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffman, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., Shamseer, L., Tetzlaff, J. M., Akl, E. A., Brennan, S. E., Chou, R., Glanville, J., Grimshaw, J. M., Hrobjartsson, A., Lalu, M. M., Li T., Loder, E. W., Mayo-Wilson, E., McDonald, S., \u2026 Moder, D. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. <em>BMJ<\/em>,<em> 372<\/em>, n71. <a href=\"http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmj.n71\">http:\/\/doi.org\/10.1136\/bmj.n71<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Pathway &#8211; Medical Knowledge app<\/em>. (n.d.). <a href=\"https:\/\/temporary.pathway.md\/\">https:\/\/temporary.pathway.md\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine and Unbound Medicine, Inc. (n.d.). PCRMs Nutrition Guide app. https:\/\/nutritionguide.pcrm.org\/nutritionguide\/mobile<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Radu Collective, Inc. (n.d.). <em>Genjo climate anxiety app<\/em>. https:\/\/genjo.app\/<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rony, M. K. K., Numan, S. M., Johra, F. T., Akter, K., Akter, F., Debnath, M., Mondal, S., Wahiduzzaman, M., Das, M., Ullah, M., Rahman, M. H., Das Bala, S., &amp; Parvin, M. R. (2024). Perceptions and attitudes of nurse practitioners toward artificial intelligence adoption in health care. <em>Health Science Reports, 7<\/em>(8). <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/hsr2.70006\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1002\/hsr2.70006<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RxFiles Academic Detailing. (n.d.). <em>RxFiles app.<\/em> University of Saskatchewan. https:\/\/www.rxfiles.ca\/rxfiles\/uploads\/documents\/rxfilesapps-webinfo.htm<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Schober, M. (2023). The global emergence of the nurse practitioner role. In S.L. Thomas &amp; J.S. Rowles (Eds.), <em>Nurse practitioners and nurse anesthetists: The evolution of the global roles<\/em> (pp. 41-73). <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/978-3-031-20762-4_2\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/978-3-031-20762-4_2<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Smiling Mind app<\/em>. (n.d.). <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smilingmind.com.au\/smiling-mind-app\">https:\/\/www.smilingmind.com.au\/smiling-mind-app<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stallter, C., &amp; Gustin, T. S. (2021). Evaluating advanced practice nurses&#8217; burnout and potential helping modalities.&nbsp;<em>The Journal for Nurse Practitioners<\/em><em>, 17<\/em>(10), 1297-1299. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2021.07.003\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.nurpra.2021.07.003<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stoyanov, S. R. (2015). <em>MARS training video<\/em> [Video]. YouTube. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=25vBwJQIOcE\">https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=25vBwJQIOcE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stoyanov, S. R., Hides, L., Kavanagh, D. J., Zelenko, O., Tjondronegoro, D., &amp; Mani, M. (2015). Mobile app rating scale: A new tool for assessing the quality of health mobile apps. <em>JMIR mHealth and uHealth<\/em>,<em> 3<\/em>(1), e27. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.2196\/mhealth.3422<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tant, M. (n.d.). <em>Anti stress breathing exercise app<\/em>. <a href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/anti-stress-breathing-exercise\/id1556434348\">https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/us\/app\/anti-stress-breathing-exercise\/id1556434348<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Terhorst, Y., Philippi, P., Sander, L. B., Schultchen, D., Paganini, S., Bardus, M., Santo, K., Knitza, J., Machado, G. C., Schoeppe, S., Bauerei\u00df, N., Portenhauser, A., Domhardt, M., Walter, B., Krusche, M., Baumeister, H., &amp; Messner, E.-M. (2020). Validation of the mobile application rating scale (MARS). <em>PLoS ONE, 15<\/em>(11), 1\u201314. <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0241480\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1371\/journal.pone.0241480<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thrombosis Canada. (n.d.). <em>Thrombosis Canada mobile app<\/em>. <a href=\"https:\/\/thrombosiscanada.ca\/app\">https:\/\/thrombosiscanada.ca\/app<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ventola, C. L. (2014). Mobile devices and apps for health care professionals: uses and benefits. <em>P&amp;T<\/em>, <em>39<\/em>(5), 356-364. https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC4029126\/<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wolters Kluwer Health.(n.d.). <em>UpToDate app<\/em>. https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/ca\/app\/uptodate\/id334265345<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>World Health Organization. (2023, July 27). <em>Digital tools positively impact health workers\u2019 performance, new WHO study shows<\/em>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news\/item\/27-07-2023-digital-tools-positively-impact-health-workers--performance--new-who-study-shows\">https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news\/item\/27-07-2023-digital-tools-positively-impact-health-workers&#8211;performance&#8211;new-who-study-shows<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zakerabasali, S., Ayyoubzadeh, S. M., Baniasadi, T., Yazdani, A., &amp; Abhari, S. (2021). Mobile health technology and healthcare providers: Systemic barriers to adoption. <em>Healthcare Informatics Research, 27<\/em>(4), 267\u2013278. <a href=\"file:\/\/\/C:\/Users\/lcreelman\/AppData\/Local\/Microsoft\/Windows\/INetCache\/Content.Outlook\/LDL83CPQ\/Somayyeh%20Zakerabasali,%20Seyed%20Mohammad%20Ayyoubzadeh,%20Tayebeh%20Baniasadi,%20Azita%20Yazdani,%20&amp;%20Shahabeddin%20Abhari.%20(2021).%20Mobile%20Health%20Technology%20and%20Healthcare%20Providers:%20Systemic%20Barriers%20to%20Adoption.%20Healthcare%20Informatics%20Research,%2027(4),%20267\u2013278.%20https:\/doi.org\/10.4258\/hir.2021.27.4.267\">https:\/\/doi.org\/10.4258\/hir.2021.27.4.267<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\"><strong>Author Bios<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dr. Anila Virani, PhD RN, BScN, MN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Anila Virani is a Registered Nurse and Assistant Professor in the School of Nursing at Thompson Rivers University. Her research explores the application of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence to enhance healthcare delivery and promote evidence-informed approaches in nursing education and practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Dr. Lisa Creelman, DNP, MScN, BScN, NP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Lisa Creelman is an NP practicing in rural primary care settings and is an Assistant Professor in the Nurse Practitioner program at Thompson Rivers University. Lisa is passionate about exploring ways to improve health system efficiency, enhance patient care, and reduce provider workload burdens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jillian Gourlay, MN-NP, BScN, NP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Jillian Gourlay is a Family Nurse Practitioner in British Columbia and a recent graduate of the Master of Nursing &#8211; Nurse Practitioner program at Thompson Rivers University. Her interests include primary care, urgent care, healthcare innovation, and strategies to improve patient access to timely, high-quality care.<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>by Jillian Gourlay<br \/>\nAnila Virani<br \/>\nLisa Creelman<\/p>\n<p>Volume 21 No 2 2026<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":16792,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[1,2211,2261],"tags":[2224,2275,2277,2276,2282,2242,2280,2278,1844,2281],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16758"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16758"}],"version-history":[{"count":80,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16758\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17068,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16758\/revisions\/17068"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/16792"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16758"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16758"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cjni.net\/journal\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16758"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}