Digital Heart: Evaluating a Mobile-Based Heart Failure Education Tool for Enhancing Patient Self-Care and Symptom Awareness in Jordan

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Heart failure is a growing health burden in Jordan and the Middle East, contributing to high readmission rates and increased morbidity. One key challenge in HF care is limited patient understanding of self-management practices and early symptom recognition. Digital education platforms offer a scalable opportunity to deliver accessible, patient-centered HF education. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a mobile-based HF education intervention on patient knowledge, and self-care adherence among HF patients in Jordan. 

Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted among 78 adult HF patients attending cardiology clinics at a tertiary hospital in Jordan. Participants completed a baseline questionnaire assessing HF knowledge, recognition of decompensation signs, and adherence to self-care behaviors. Patients then received a smartphone-based educational module including short videos, infographics, medication reminders, and interactive quizzes. Follow-up assessment was performed six weeks later. Outcomes included changes in knowledge scores, symptom awareness, and self-care adherence. Paired t-tests and multivariate regression analyses were used to evaluate improvement and predictors of change.

Results: Of the participants, 55% were male and the mean age was 62.7 ± 10.1 years. Post-intervention, HF knowledge scores increased significantly (mean improvement +19%, p<0.001). Recognition of early HF decompensation signs such as rapid weight gain, worsening dyspnea, and ankle swelling improved from 46% at baseline to 80% (p<0.001). Self-reported adherence to fluid restriction, sodium-controlled diet, and daily weight monitoring also increased. Older age, prior HF hospitalization, and higher digital literacy were associated with greater improvement.

Conclusions: A mobile-based educational intervention significantly improved HF knowledge, early symptom recognition, and self-care practices among HF patients in Jordan. Integrating digital cardiac education platforms into routine HF management may help reduce delays in seeking care and prevent avoidable hospitalizations. Wider adoption of digital HF tools across the Middle East could strengthen patient empowerment and improve long-term outcomes.