Development of a Mobile App Game for Practicing Lung Exercises: Feasibility Study

Abstract

Background: Chest injuries are a leading cause of death and disability, accounting for 10% of hospital admissions and 25% of injury-related deaths. About two-thirds of patients with thoracic injuries experience complications such as blood or air in the pleural space, causing lung deflation and poor gas exchange. Proper breathing management, using tools like incentive spirometers, improves lung function and recovery. However, there is a gap in mobile-based gaming apps designed for lung exercise, which could benefit both the general population and patients recovering from lung injuries. Objective: This research aimed to develop and evaluate a mobile app game for practicing lung exercises, accompanied by a prototype device called the Pulmo device. Methods: The study involved a sample group of 110 participants from the general public. It followed a research and development methodology comprising 4 steps. The research instruments included a mobile app game, a prototype lung exercise device, and questionnaires to assess users’ satisfaction and the feasibility of both the app and the device. Results: The findings revealed that the participants demonstrated a high level of overall satisfaction with both the mobile app game and the prototype lung exercise device (mean 4.4, SD 0.4). The feasibility for the mobile app game and the prototype lung exercise device connected to the game was evaluated. The results indicated that the sample group perceived the overall feasibility to be at a high level (mean 4.4, SD 0.5). Conclusions: The research results reflected that the sample group believed the mobile app game for practicing lung exercises and the prototype device developed in this project have a high potential for practical application in promoting lung rehabilitation through gameplay. The mobile app game and the Pulmo device prototype received positive user feedback, indicating potential practical use; however, further validation is required among patients in need of pulmonary rehabilitation.