Table 3 Summary of feedback from patient partners on Smart Watch and heart rate monitor information sheet
From: Co-production of a feasibility trial of pacing interventions for Long COVID
Positives | Negatives |
|---|---|
Heart rate/minute function is useful—the beeps warn of abnormal heart rate, leading the user to stop and rest | Device needs regular charging (every three days) |
Stress level on body is easily monitored—if user becomes stressed, device tells them to breath in/out | Device is not designed for people with Long COVID—it often encourages the user to do exercise instead of slowing down |
Device facilitates communication with GP—users can show some of the outcomes to their GP, which then can sometimes lead to referral to specific services | Device oxygen levels are lower than oxygen levels on a pulse oximeter. This can create anxiety amongst users who are unsure what to do about low readings and whether to seek medical help |
Slim and light, user-friendly, easy to set up | Device may be too large for a user’s wrist and can sometime irritate the skin |