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The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a computer-based symptom cluster heuristics tool designed to explore symptom clusters experienced by adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer. The Computerized Symptom Capture Tool (C-SCAT) is a newly developed iPad application, which combines graphical images and free text responses in an innovative heuristics approach to explore symptoms and symptom clusters.Seventy-two AYAs (13-29 years of age) with cancer at five institutions across the US completed the C-SCAT 24-96 hours after the initial chemotherapy dose in a chemotherapy cycle.All participants completed the C-SCAT successfully in a mean of 25 minutes, with 74% reporting that the final image was an accurate or very accurate representation of their symptom experience. Little clarification/coaching was necessary while completing the C-SCAT. Few technical problems were encountered. Participants judged the C-SCAT questions to be clear and endorsed ease of following instructions, typing, and drawing.The C-SCAT demonstrated feasibility and acceptability. With refinement based on study results, the C-SCAT has potential to: (a) empower AYAs to communicate their symptom experience and partner with providers in their care; (b) improve symptom management and ameliorate distress; and (c) translate to use with other highly symptomatic populations.

The features of the iPad and its widespread adoption support its use as a tool in research involving children and adolescents. Although use in our current research has been limited to a hospital-based setting,the iPad’s design and features support its potential use in home- and community-based settings as well.In addition to collecting data through web-based platforms and applications, the iPad may facilitate telehealth-based interventions through the use of its built-in camera and Face Time applications.In our experience with children and adolescents,the iPad has been a useful tool to support multiple types of data collection as well as support other aspects of the research process. The use of iPad application technology certainly opens up opportunities for new and novel ways to collect meaningful data and support research with individuals across the lifespan.