Asian Journal of Research in Nursing and Health

The Relationship of Family Support and Quality of Life of Hemodialysis in a Selected Government Hospital in China

2026-06-11T10:00:01+00:00

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a major public health challenge in China. A national cross-sectional epidemiological survey reported that the prevalence of CKD among Chinese adults aged 18 years and above was 10.8%, affecting approximately 152 million. According to the Zhang (2025), the total number of clients receiving hemodialysis in mainland China exceeded 1.43 million by the end of 2025, with young adults aged 18 to 27 accounting for 7.4% of the total dialysis population people. The increasing number of young hemodialysis clients has become a growing concern because long-term dialysis treatment seriously affects physical health, psychological well-being, economic stability, and social functioning, all of which may reduce quality of life. For hemodialysis patients, family support served as an important protective factor. Chinese family structures commonly include spouses, parents, and children, and may also involve grandparents and other relatives who usually assume major caregiving responsibilities, including assistance with daily activities, emotional support, treatment monitoring, and financial assistance. Therefore, it helps the patient to reduce anxiety and depression, improve treatment adherence, and strengthen psychosocial resilience.

Purpose: The study aimed to determine the level of family support and quality of life among hemodialysis clients, identify differences according to demographic characteristics, and examine the relationship between family support and quality of life. Data serve as guide in the development of policies and the reinforcement of support for both dialysis patients and their families. It also provides evidence for culturally appropriate and family-centered nursing interventions for hemodialysis clients.

Methodology: The study used a descriptive correlational research design to examine the relationship between family support and quality of life among hemodialysis clients. Through purposive sampling, 207 participants were recruited from the First People's Hospital of Yinchuan.

Result: The result showed that Family support among respondents was generally at a moderate level. Supportive family interactions such as financial assistance and communication were commonly experienced, although conflictual interactions were also reported by many respondents. The overall quality of life of respondents was moderate. Among the four domains, social relationships and environmental health obtained relatively higher scores, while physical health and psychological health had the lowest scores. Lastly, there is no significant differences in family support were found when respondents were grouped according to age, gender, marital status, educational level, monthly household income, and duration of hemodialysis.

Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study, hemodialysis clients family support alone was insufficient to significantly improve quality of life, suggesting that multiple factors—including physical, psychological, social, and environmental elements—play important roles in determining clients’ overall well-being. Consequently, holistic and family-centered nursing care remains essential for enhancing the overall health and quality of life of clients undergoing long-term hemodialysis.

Assessment of Knowledge and Practices of Standard Precautions among Student Nurses

2026-05-07T11:36:17+00:00

Aims: To determine the level of knowledge and practices regarding standard precautions among student nurses in a private college institution in Iloilo City.

Study Design: A descriptive correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: A private nursing college located in Molo, Iloilo City, between January 19 to 24, 2026.

Methodology: The study consisted of 305 second-year, third year, and fourth-year nursing students enrolled in a private college in Iloilo City, selected through stratified random sampling. This sampling method ensured fair representation of each year’s level, providing a comprehensive view of students’ knowledge and practices throughout their clinical progression.

Results: Out of 305 student nurses revealed a moderate level of knowledge (M=5.33/7), in terms of clinical practice, students demonstrated high compliance with glove usage (M=4.91) but scored poorly on safe needle disposal (M=2.58). Data was not normally distributed (p<0.05), Spearman’s rho was used, uncovering a weak but significant positive correlation (r_s =0.167, p=0.003) between what the students know and how they perform in practice.

Conclusion: These results show that knowledge is not just useful for solving problems, but also for strengthening understanding, skills, and awareness. The study emphasizes the need to improve student nurses’ knowledge and skills, as these play an important role in both their personal and professional growth.

Pricing Structure Revision for Non-citizen Healthcare Services at Negombo District General Hospital, Sri Lanka

2026-05-15T13:02:23+00:00

Background: Increasing numbers of non-citizen patients in Sri Lankan public hospitals have created challenges in healthcare financing and resource management. Revising the pricing structure at Negombo District General Hospital is important to support sustainable healthcare services and efficient hospital administration.

Aims: To analyse the gap between the outdated 2017 Ministry of Health fee schedule (Circular 01-14-2017) and current service delivery costs at Negombo District General Hospital (NDGH), benchmark the hospital’s 2023 provisional pricing revision against private sector charges, and identify systemic factors driving pricing inadequacy in Sri Lanka’s public hospital system.

Presentation of Case: NDGH, a 800-bed tirtiary care facility 10 km from Bandaranaike International Airport, serves non-citizen patients constituting 8–12% of outpatient visits. By 2022–2023, cumulative healthcare inflation (>45%) and currency depreciation (~50%) had reduced cost recovery under the 2017 circular to 33–37%. In Q1 2023, hospital leadership developed an evidence-based provisional pricing structure, informed by cost analysis and a five-hospital private sector benchmarking survey, and implemented it pending formal Ministry approval.

Discussion: The revised schedule raised cost recovery to 85–95% across most service categories while maintaining charges at 30–44% of private sector rates. Total non-citizen service revenue increased by approximately 280% in the first six months, with an 8% decline in patient volume. Ishikawa root cause analysis identified six contributing domains: absence of price adjustment mechanisms; currency depreciation and healthcare-specific inflation; lack of hospital cost accounting systems; private sector competitive dynamics; equipment aging; and human resource gaps. The case highlights systemic deficiencies in Sri Lanka’s healthcare pricing governance, including the absence of periodic review mandates and insufficient financial management capacity at facility level.

Conclusion: Locally driven, evidence-based pricing reform is operationally feasible in resource-constrained public hospital settings. However, long-term sustainability requires national-level mechanisms for regular price review, selective pricing decentralisation, and investment in hospital cost accounting infrastructure.

A Narrative Review of Factors Predisposing to Weight Gain and Weight Maintenance

2026-01-27T09:53:29+00:00

Background: The global increase in body weight represents one of the most significant public health challenges of the modern era, affecting populations across all socioeconomic levels and geographic regions. The escalating prevalence of overweight and obesity has contributed substantially to the global burden of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, several cancers, and musculoskeletal disorders, while simultaneously reducing quality of life and increasing healthcare expenditures.

Although weight gain has traditionally been explained by the energy balance model, this framework alone fails to account for the marked inter-individual variability in weight trajectories. Current evidence indicates that body weight regulation is a complex and dynamic process shaped by the interaction of biological predispositions, behavioral and lifestyle factors, psychological influences, and environmental and socioeconomic conditions. Biological mechanisms, including genetic variability, hormonal regulation of appetite, and adaptive thermogenesis, generate strong physiological pressures that favor weight regain following weight loss.

Methodology: This narrative review synthesized current evidence on the multifactorial determinants of weight gain and long-term weight maintenance. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO using combinations of MeSH terms and free-text keywords related to obesity, weight regulation, predisposing factors, and biological, psychological, behavioral, and environmental mechanisms. Additional sources were identified through citation tracking and consultation of grey literature from authoritative public health organizations. Relevant peer-reviewed studies and reports providing mechanistic insight or integrative perspectives were selected through iterative screening. Due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes, findings were synthesized narratively and organized within a socio-ecological framework to elucidate the complex and adaptive nature of body weight regulation.

Results: Research demonstrates that weight regulation is a complex adaptive system; biological factors (e.g., genetic predisposition, adaptive thermogenesis) establish susceptibility and create a persistent physiological drive for weight regain; behavioral factors (e.g., consumption of ultra-processed foods, physical inactivity, inadequate sleep) are the main mediators of energy imbalance; psychological factors (e.g., stress, emotional eating, self-regulation) critically influence behavioral choices. In the end, these individual-level factors function within potent obesogenic environments and socioeconomic contexts that encourage overconsumption and sedentarism.

Conclusion: Simple, one-level interventions are insufficient for effective obesity prevention and management techniques. Success necessitates integrated, multi-level strategies that combine systemic public health policies intended to transform obesogenic environments with individualized assistance for behavioural and psychological transformation. Developing compassionate and long-lasting solutions requires an understanding of this intricate etiology.

Preoperative Anxiety Management: The Effectiveness of Nurse-Led Educational Interventions on Surgical Outcomes: A Narrative Review

2026-04-15T12:52:52+00:00

Preoperative anxiety is a prevalent and clinically significant phenomenon that adversely affects surgical outcomes through both psychological and physiological pathways. Elevated anxiety levels before surgery have been associated with increased postoperative pain, delayed recovery, and prolonged hospitalization, underscoring the need for effective and accessible interventions within perioperative care. Among these, nurse-led educational interventions have emerged as a promising strategy, leveraging nurses' unique position as primary patient educators and as consistent points of contact throughout the surgical journey. This narrative review critically examines the role and effectiveness of nurse-led educational interventions in managing preoperative anxiety and improving surgical outcomes. Drawing on a diverse body of literature, the review explores various educational modalities, including verbal counseling, written materials, multimedia tools, and multimodal approaches. Key themes identified include the importance of individualized, patient-centered communication; the role of education in reducing uncertainty and enhancing perceived control; and the integration of psychological support within routine clinical practice. Overall, the evidence suggests that nurse-led educational interventions are effective in reducing preoperative anxiety and contribute to improved postoperative outcomes, including better pain management and faster recovery. These interventions are low-cost, scalable, and adaptable across different healthcare settings. Their incorporation into standard perioperative pathways is therefore strongly recommended. Future efforts should focus on standardizing intervention protocols and leveraging digital innovations to enhance reach and consistency.

Diversity in the Management of Pain and Stress: Implications for Nurses

2026-05-21T08:00:51+00:00

Pain, which includes biological, psychological, social and spiritual factors, is a common symptom experienced by patients in intensive care. Pain and stress represent two of the most pervasive clinical challenges encountered in nursing practice, yet their manifestation, interpretation, and management are profoundly shaped by the diversity of patient populations. Race and ethnicity, sex and gender, age, socioeconomic status, cultural background, and religious affiliation each exert demonstrable influences on how pain is perceived, expressed, communicated, and treated. Persistent disparities in pain management across diverse groups have been extensively documented in the clinical literature, with minority ethnic and lower socioeconomic populations consistently receiving less adequate analgesia than their White, higher-income counterparts. Stress, similarly, is both biologically mediated and socioculturally embedded; cumulative psychosocial adversity generates allostatic load with significant implications for long-term health. For nurses, who occupy the frontline of patient care and spend more time with patients than any other healthcare professional, navigating this diversity is not merely a technical challenge but an ethical imperative. Literature searches were conducted across the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library as primary interdisciplinary sources, supplemented by CINAHL. The narrative review synthesises evidence from biomedical, psychological, anthropological, and nursing science literature to examine how diversity intersects with pain and stress management, and to derive implications for clinical nursing practice. Key themes include the biopsychosocial determinants of pain and stress variability; cultural and ethnic disparities in assessment and treatment; the role of implicit bias among healthcare providers; the cultural validity of standard assessment instruments; the evidence base for pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions across diverse populations; and the implications for nursing education, workforce development, and institutional policy. The review concludes that culturally responsive, equitable, and person-centred nursing practice requires sustained educational investment, structural reform, and attentiveness to the intersectional nature of patient identity and experience.

Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) Proficiency in High-volume Emergency Settings: A Scoping Review

2026-05-21T13:35:35+00:00

Background: Triage decision-making (TDM) using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) is critical in high-volume emergency departments (EDs), but nurse experience and work environment factors may influence CTAS proficiency.

Objective: To map and synthesize evidence on how nurse experience and work environment affect CTAS proficiency in high-volume EDs.

Methods: Following JBI guidelines and PRISMA-ScR, we searched PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (2000–September 2025). Inclusion criteria: studies of adult ED triage nurses (Population), TDM/CTAS proficiency (Concept), and high-volume EDs (>50,000 visits/year or NEDOCS ≥100) (Context). Data from 28 studies were thematically synthesized.

Results: Tenure >5 years was associated with 15–30% accuracy gains for urgent cases (Levels 2–3), supported by intuitive reasoning (System 1). However, cognitive biases (e.g., centrality bias, kappa 0.65–0.72) limited reliability. Overcrowding and nurse-to-patient ratios >4:1 increased errors by 12–18%, with under-triage reaching 41.5% during surges. Electronic aids improved reliability by approximately 0.10 kappa but could not eliminate systemic strain.

Conclusions: CTAS proficiency depends on both individual expertise and supportive work environments. Debiasing training, workload caps, and better electronic support are needed. Major gaps include lack of longitudinal studies and underrepresentation of low-resource settings.

The Hidden Burden: A Narrative Review of Depression Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Trajectories in Cancer Caregivers

2026-04-28T06:00:04+00:00

Background: Cancer is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, with a growing burden in low- and middle-income countries, including those in Sub-Saharan Africa. As cancer therapy becomes more complex, patients increasingly rely on informal caregivers usually family members for physical, emotional, and practical support. However, these caregivers experience significant psychological distress, particularly depression, which remains underrecognized in clinical practice.

Aim: This narrative review aims to synthesize evidence on the prevalence, risk factors, and longitudinal trajectories of depression among informal caregivers of adults with cancer, and to outline implications for nursing assessment and early identification.

Methods: Published literature on depression in cancer caregivers was reviewed, focusing on prevalence rates, demographic, psychosocial, physical, and patient-related risk factors, as well as temporal patterns of depressive symptoms across the cancer care continuum. The following electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles published: PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.

Findings: Studies showed that 20–50% of cancer caregivers experience clinically significant depressive symptoms, compared to 5–10% in the general population. Caregivers are predominantly women aged 45–65, often spouses or daughters, with 39% having no formal education and providing an average of 10.9 hours of care daily. Key risk factors include female gender, low income, high subjective caregiver burden, social isolation, sleep disturbance, patient functional decline, and financial toxicity. Longitudinal studies reveal four distinct depressive trajectories: resilient (40–50%), chronic high distress (15–25%), delayed distress (10–15%), and recovery (20–30%). Symptoms peak during active treatment, cancer recurrence, and end-of-life care, with 50–60% of caregivers meeting depression criteria in the palliative phase.

For nursing practice, implications include routine screening using brief tools such as the PHQ-2 and PHQ-9, timing assessments to critical cancer trajectory points (diagnosis, mid-treatment, survivorship transition, recurrence, palliative care), and establishing clear referral pathways to social work, psychology, and psychiatry.

Conclusion: Depression among cancer caregivers is a pervasive yet underrecognized condition that compromises both caregiver well-being and patient outcomes. Oncology nurses play a pivotal role in early identification through systematic screening and multidisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing the caregiver as a "hidden patient" and integrating mental health support into standard cancer care is a clinical necessity.

Resilience of Indonesian Nurses Working in Healthcare Facility in Qatar: A Qualitative Research

2026-01-01T07:07:19+00:00

Background: Indonesian nurses working in healthcare facility in Qatar face unique challenges, including high-pressure clinical environments, cultural and linguistic barriers, and emotional strain. Understanding resilience strategies in this context is essential for improving nurse well-being and patient safety.

Objective: This study explores the resilience experiences of Indonesian nurses employed in emergency rooms, ambulance services, hospital, and primary health care clinics in Qatar, focusing on coping strategies, cultural adaptation, and organizational supports.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used with purposive sampling at a healthcare facility in Qatar. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with ten Indonesian nurses and analyzed using thematic analysis. The study was guided by resilience frameworks, including Morse’s Resilience Framework for Nursing and Healthcare and Polk’s Middle-Range Theory of Resilience. Thematic analysis was conducted with NVivo software.

Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) Workplace Pressure Management through protocol adherence, task delegation, and structured communication; (2) Cultural and Linguistic Adaptation using simple English, Arabic phrases, visual aids, and interpreter support; (3) Resilience Capacities involving mindfulness, peer debriefing, and gratitude practices; and (4) Organizational Supports such as simulation drills, SBAR training, and access to counseling services. These strategies collectively enabled nurses to maintain emotional balance and deliver safe care under stress.

Conclusion: Resilience among Indonesian nurses working in healthcare facility in Qatar is a dynamic, multi-layered process shaped by individual coping mechanisms, team solidarity, and organizational resources. Interventions that combine cultural competence training, resilience workshops, and supportive policies can strengthen nurse resilience and improve healthcare outcomes.

Communication Self-efficacy and Emotional Intelligence among Staff Nurses

2026-01-03T10:04:41+00:00

Background: Effective communication is crucial for nurses in delivering competent and compassionate care to patients, as it significantly influences the identification and resolution of their needs. Communication self-efficacy pertains to an individual's confidence in their ability to communicate effectively in different situations. Thus, fostering communication self-efficacy is vital, given that inadequate communication skills can lead to risks and jeopardize patient safety. Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to a person's ability to accurately perceive, evaluate, and express emotions. It is recognized as a key factor in enhancing nurses' ability to manage stress and build therapeutic relationships. Therefore, the investigator was interested in assessing the relationship between communication self-efficacy and Emotional intelligence among staff nurses.

Aim: This study was conducted with the aim to assess the communication self-efficacy and emotional intelligence among staff nurses and their association with their selected demographic variables.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed for this study. The researcher utilized a stratified simple random sampling technique to select 60 staff nurses. Data were collected using a self-reported questionnaire. The communication self-efficacy of the staff nurses was evaluated with the Self-efficacy (SE-12) Questionnaire, while their emotional intelligence was measured using the Brief Emotional Intelligence Scale. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0. The correlation between emotional intelligence and communication self-efficacy was assessed using the Pearson correlation coefficient, with a p-value of ≤0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The study found that 95% of participants were female and 5% were male. Communication self-efficacy scores varied, with 56.7% of staff nurses demonstrating high self-efficacy and 43.3% showing low self-efficacy. In terms of emotional intelligence (EI), 55% exhibited average EI, while 18.3% scored below average, 13.3% above average, and 6.7% scored high or low. A positive correlation was noted between communication self-efficacy and EI (r = 0.130, p < 0.01), but regression analysis found no significant relationship between them or with socio-demographic variables.

Conclusion: This study clearly shows that more than half of the participants exhibited high communication self-efficacy, while the majority demonstrated average emotional intelligence. Notably, there is a strong positive correlation between communication self-efficacy and emotional intelligence, indicating that higher emotional intelligence significantly enhances communication self-efficacy. This finding highlights the crucial need for staff nurses to actively develop these essential competencies.

Factors Influencing Medication Adherence among Hypertensive Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Southwest Nigerian Public Hospital

2026-01-06T09:51:12+00:00

Introduction: Hypertension remains a major public health challenge, and effective management depends on consistent medication adherence. In many low- and middle-income settings, adherence is influenced by a complex mix of sociodemographic, economic, and health-system factors. This study assessed the socio-demographic and healthcare-related barriers that shape medication adherence behaviours among hypertensive patients.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed and fisher’s formula was used to recruit 400 hypertensive patients through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Chi-square tests were used to determine associations between adherence levels and selected sociodemographic and clinical variables.

Results: Most respondents were aged 51–60 years (24.8%), predominantly female (61.8%), and largely of Yoruba ethnicity (76.8%). Majority were married (54.3%), self-employed (54.3%), and had primary education (32.8%). Overall, there was moderate level of medication adherence (76.8%), with 13.5% demonstrating high adherence and 9.8% showing low adherence. Key barriers to adherence included unaffordable and inaccessible medications (76.3%), lack of comprehensive treatment information (77.0%), long waiting times (61.5%), forgetfulness (57.2%), uncooperative health workers (55.0%), unavailability of medications (55.0%), prolonged medication use (54.3%), and multiple medical conditions (52.8%). Statistical analysis showed significant associations between adherence and age (p = 0.03), sex (p = 0.00), ethnicity (p = 0.00), religion (p = 0.00), marital status (p = 0.00), occupation (p = 0.00), educational level (p = 0.01), and hypertensive status (p = 0.00).

Conclusion: Strategic interventions that consider demographic differences, promote inclusive decision-making, and improve patient–provider communication is essential. Efforts should focus on enhancing access to affordable medications, reducing long waiting times, and ensuring consistent availability of antihypertensive drugs.

Impact of Maternal Education, Maternal Job, Residence and Family Economic Status on Childhood Vaccination in Anbar Province

2026-01-12T10:38:09+00:00

Background: This is the first public study done in Anbar province to address the potential causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations. This study highlights that incomplete childhood vaccination in Anbar province remains a significant public health concern.

Objectives: To study the possible causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations in Anbar province.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was done on all sectors of Anbar province; the participants were those who visited the health centers during a two-month period. The data was collected from mothers or caregivers of children, and a list of oral questions was prepared for this purpose. The data includes the age of the mother, educational level, job, economic status of the family, number of children, and availability of transportation. The study includes 2 groups of participants, one of families with complete childhood vaccinations and the second of incomplete.

Results: The total number of participants was (966) mothers or caregivers for the complete childhood vaccination group and (850) for the incomplete group. Low maternal level of education, low economic status of the families, and low maternal age are recorded as possible causes of incomplete childhood vaccinations in this study.

Conclusion: Educational sessions about the benefits of childhood vaccinations are recommended in all sectors of Anbar province to encourage families to immunize.

Maternal Perception and Decision-Making Factors towards Exchange Blood Transfusion in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Rivers State

2026-01-22T09:08:22+00:00

Background: The success of life-saving interventions in neonatal emergencies often depends on maternal perception and consent, particularly when procedures such as exchange blood transfusion are required to treat conditions like neonatal sepsis and severe anaemia. This study was designed to examine how maternal perception and decision-making factors influence the willingness of mothers to consent to exchange blood transfusion for their neonates at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, involving a population of 150 mothers whose babies were admitted into the Special Care Baby Unit of University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.81, 0.84, and 0.86 for perception, decision-making, and willingness scales, respectively. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression.

Results: The findings showed that perception-related misconceptions such as fear of death (χ² = 21.06, p < .001), belief that EBT is harmful (χ² = 20.01, p < .001), and spiritual interpretations (χ² = 9.57, p = .008) significantly reduced maternal willingness to consent. Regression analysis revealed that mothers who believed EBT could kill the baby were 22.81 times less likely to give consent (OR = 22.81, p < .001), while fear of fatal outcomes (OR = 17.64, p = .001) and metaphysical beliefs (OR = 10.83, p = .003) were also strong deterrents. Decision-making factors such as religious opposition (χ² = 22.77, p < .001), cultural beliefs (χ² = 17.96, p < .001), and lack of information (χ² = 39.04, p < .001) significantly influenced maternal consent. Mothers who had cost-related for concerns EBT procedure were 10.75 times more likely to approve (OR = 10.75, p < .017). Additionally, education level had a strong effect: mothers with tertiary education were 17.61 times more likely to consent than those with primary education (OR = 17.61, p < .001).

Conclusion: Maternal willingness is shaped by a complex interaction of cognitive, cultural, spiritual, and experiential factors. We recommend that healthcare providers should intensify efforts on antenatal health education, increase engagement with religious and community leaders to create awareness through campaigns, establish peer-support platforms for the mothers, subsidizing EBT costs, and training healthcare providers on culturally sensitive communication strategies.

Factors Influencing Utilization of Contraceptives among Women of Reproductive Age in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria

2026-01-22T10:30:48+00:00

Background: High maternal mortality rates remain a global challenge, falling short of the MDG target of reducing deaths to under 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030. Significant attention has been made in maternal and child health, leading to increased focus and initiatives from various groups, reliance on contraceptive methods is a key strategy for population control and preventing pregnancy. However, standard contraceptive methods do not offer protection against STIs. This study aims to explore factors influencing contraceptive utilization among women of reproductive age in Jos North local government area.

Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted using a sample size of 385 women selected through a simple multi-stage random sampling process from two of 20 wards under the Primary Health Care Unit. Data collected using a self-structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 21, and correlations were assessed with Spearman's Rho. Results were presented in frequency tables, charts, and percentages, with a significance level established at p < 0.05.

Results: The most significant factors influencing contraceptive use among women in Jos North were knowledge of family planning methods (86.9%) and husband's support (84.1%). Other key influences included the desire to space children (81.8%), the number of existing children (60.1%, 60.1 %, 60.1%), and economic situation (49.2%).

Conclusion: The utilization of contraceptives among the participants is a complex interplay of personal knowledge and interpersonal dynamics. The minimal impact of demographic variables suggests that future interventions should focus less on general education and more on partner-inclusive counseling and the management of contraceptive-related side effects to bridge the gap between awareness and consistent use.

The Role of Internet Use in Self Diagnosis and Treatment among Young Adults in Cabanatuan City: Implications for Digital Literacy

2026-01-29T06:27:59+00:00

Introduction: Young adults increasingly rely on the internet to search for health information and to assess symptoms prior to seeking professional care. This behavior has contributed to a growing trend in online self-diagnosis and self-treatment, raising concerns regarding misinformation, delayed healthcare engagement, and inappropriate self-management

Aims: To describe the socio-demographic profile of young adults and determine the role of internet use in self-diagnosis and treatment among residents of Camp Tinio, Cabanatuan City, and to assess whether significant relationships exist between respondent profiles and behavioral constructs related to online self-diagnosis.

Methodology: A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed. The study was conducted in Barangay Camp Tinio, Cabanatuan City, from January to May 2025. A total of 324 respondents aged 18–26 were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using a validated Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed using frequency and percentage distribution for demographic variables, and Spearman’s rho correlation for relational analysis. Constructs measured included perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy.

Results: Most respondents were female (60.49%) and digitally active, spending 4–8 hours online daily (44.14%) and spending Philippine Peso 500–1,500 per month on internet access (88.58%). Respondents disagreed with statements reflecting perceived susceptibility (Grand Mean=2.38), perceived severity (2.47), perceived benefits (2.49), perceived barriers (2.41), and self-efficacy (2.37), indicating low concern regarding misdiagnosis and limited confidence in interpreting online health information. Cues to action showed the highest agreement for searching symptoms when experiencing unusual health concerns (Mean=3.26). Correlation analysis revealed weak but significant negative relationships between frequency of internet use and perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and cues to action, while no significant relationships were found with perceived severity or self-efficacy.

Conclusion: Young adults frequently utilize the internet for preliminary health assessment yet demonstrate low awareness of misdiagnosis risks and limited confidence in evaluating online medical content. Findings emphasize the need for digital health literacy interventions and public health campaigns encouraging professional medical consultation.

A Pre-experimental Study on the Effectiveness of Computer-assisted Teaching on Knowledge of Stem Cell Therapy for Cardiovascular Diseases among Railway Nursing Staff in India

2026-01-29T10:05:31+00:00

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recent advancements in regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapy, have opened new avenues in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Nurses play a crucial role in patient care, education, and monitoring during advanced therapeutic interventions. However, limited knowledge regarding stem cell therapy among nursing staff may hinder its effective implementation in clinical practice.

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-assisted teaching programme on knowledge regarding stem cell therapy in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases among railway nursing staff.

Methods: A quantitative evaluative research approach with a one-group pre-test–post-test design (pre-experimental) was adopted. The study was conducted among 50 railway nursing staff selected using non-probability convenience sampling in a selected railway hospital in India (convenience sampling chosen due to feasibility, accessibility, and availability of participants in the single specialized setting during data collection period). Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire (developed by researchers; 25 multiple-choice questions covering core concepts; content validity by nursing/medicine experts; reliability r=0.88 via split-half method; items designed at moderate difficulty level based on pre-test performance distribution). A computer-assisted teaching programme was administered after the pre-test, followed by a post-test on the eighth day.

Results: The post-test mean knowledge score was significantly higher than the pre-test mean score (p<0.05), indicating that the computer-assisted teaching programme was effective.

Conclusion: The computer-assisted teaching programme was effective in improving railway nursing staff’s knowledge regarding stem cell therapy in cardiovascular disease management. These findings support the integration of technology-enhanced educational strategies in continuing nursing education to better prepare staff for emerging regenerative therapies and improve patient care in specialized healthcare settings.

Effects and Prevention of Digital Eye Strain Syndrome (DESS) among Computer Science Students at Kaduna Polytechnic, Tudun–Wada Campus, Kaduna State, Nigeria

2026-02-04T13:12:27+00:00

Digital Eye Strain Syndrome (DESS), emerged a global health issue linked to prolonged screen exposure. Students in computer-based disciplines are particularly at risk, with implications for academic performance and well-being. The cross-sectional descriptive study assessed the effects and prevention of digital eye strain syndrome (Dess) among computer science students of Kaduna polytechnic Tudun-Wada campus, Kaduna state, Nigeria. Objectives and research questions were developed to guide the study; a non-experimental purposive sampling method was used to draw 108 out of the 295 bonafide computer students of the department. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire with open and closed-ended items. Result showed that; Majority of respondents were male 72.2% and aged 18–27 years 98.1%. Headaches, visual fatigue, dry eyes, and blurred vision were the most reported symptoms. While 59.3% experienced symptoms sometimes, 11.1% reported severe academic impact. Smartphones were the primary device 44.4%. Poor ergonomic practices were common, with 63.0% rarely and 18.5% never taking breaks, and 68.5% reporting poor posture. Awareness of preventive measures was moderate 68.5%, but adherence was limited: only 3.7% practiced the 20-20-20 rule, while brightness adjustment/blue-light filters 37.0%) and occasional breaks 20.4% were more common. Respondents identified affordable eye care 48.1%, ergonomic facilities 24.1%, and sensitization workshops 13.0% as key needs. DESS is prevalent among Computer Science students at Kaduna Polytechnic, with headaches and fatigue as leading symptoms. Students should be encouraged to adopt evidence-based preventive measures such as the 20-20-20 rule, regular breaks, and proper posture. Frequent short breaks have been shown to reduce symptoms of eye strain. Development of institutional guidelines on safe screen use, including screen time recommendations, ergonomic standards, and preventive practices, would help regulate digital exposure and reduce risks.

Beyond the Stethoscope: Experiences of Nurse Leaders to Balancing Motherhood and Profession

2026-02-09T13:24:05+00:00

Background: Nurse leaders who are mothers have important responsibilities both at work and at home, which makes it hard for them to balance both roles. They often find themselves in conflict as they attempt to fulfill their responsibilities. Studies have confirmed that work-life balance has a substantial effect on nurses’ mental well-being and job retention, as well as the quality of patients’ care. This underscores the need for policies that support workforce retention and align with SDG 3 and NUHRA priorities.

Aims: This study explored the experiences of nurse leaders as they balance motherhood and their profession while identifying important implications for enhancing support.

Study Design: Descriptive Phenomenological Design

Place and Duration of Study: Nursing Departments in participating hospitals in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, between October 2024 and September 2025.

Methodology: This study was held at five participating hospitals in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines. Participants had a total of ten (10) nurses who were mothers for school-aged children and held the title position of Charge Nurse (Head Nurse/ Chief Nurse/ Supervisor). Purposive sampling and snowball sampling were employed in this study, therefore 10 nurse leaders met the criteria for having previous experience of combining employment and parenthood. The researchers utilized semi-structured guide questions, in-depth interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically reflexively using MAXQDA.

Results: The thematic analysis identified five interconnected themes: (1) Juggling Multiple Roles, (2) Carrying Emotional Burdens, (3) Organizing Time and Priorities, (4) Growing through Adversity, and (5) Relying on Support Networks. Participants highlighted their resilience in the face of exhaustion, supported by adaptive strategies and external help.

Conclusion: Nurse leader mothers demonstrate remarkable resilience and satisfaction in their dual roles while emphasizing the importance of family, teamwork, and institutional flexibility. Implications for nursing practice include support for flexibility in scheduling, provision of child care, and self-care initiatives.

Lived Experiences of Emergency Room Nurses in Patient Advocacy During Vehicular Accident Emergencies

2026-02-09T13:31:19+00:00

Introduction: Road traffic injuries remain a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where emergency healthcare systems face high trauma caseloads. Emergency room nurses play a critical role in trauma care and patient advocacy, ensuring patient safety, timely intervention, and protection of patient rights during emergency situations. However, limited research exists on the lived experiences of emergency nurses in performing patient advocacy during vehicular accidents, particularly in the Philippine context.

Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences of emergency room nurses in patient advocacy during vehicular accidents in selected hospitals in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, Philippines.

Methodology: This study utilized a descriptive qualitative design. Purposive sampling was used to recruit eight emergency room nurses with at least five years of clinical experience. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews using a an expert-reviewed interview guide. Five experts validated the content and clarity of the questionnaire. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using Thematic Analysis guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and written informed consent was secured from all participants.

Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) patient advocacy as protection of vulnerable trauma patients, (2) emotional and moral burden in managing vehicular accident cases, (3) system challenges affecting patient advocacy in emergency departments, and (4) advocacy as part of Filipino nurses’ professional and personal values. Findings showed that Filipino emergency nurses play a crucial role in advocating for trauma patients despite emotional stress, heavy workload, limited resources, and ethical challenges. Patient advocacy was strongly influenced by the Filipino value of malasakit.

Conclusion: Emergency room nurses in the Philippine setting demonstrate strong commitment to patient advocacy despite clinical, emotional, and systemic challenges. Advocacy remains an essential component of emergency nursing practice and professional identity. These findings highlight the need for strengthened institutional support, structured patient advocacy protocols, and policy initiatives that protect and empower emergency nurses in delivering trauma-focused, patient-centered care. These findings have important implications for emergency nursing practice and health policy, highlighting the need for strengthened institutional support, structured patient advocacy protocols, adequate staffing and resource allocation, and mental health support programs that enable emergency nurses to effectively advocate for trauma patients in high-pressure clinical environments.

Recommendations: Hospitals should strengthen emergency department resources, staffing, and mental health support for nurses. Nursing education should enhance training in trauma care and patient advocacy. Policymakers should support emergency healthcare system improvements and develop policies that strengthen patient advocacy practices in emergency settings.

A Thematic Exploration: Meaning of Caring Perspective among First-year Nursing Students

2026-02-13T08:46:38+00:00

Aim: Caring has long been regarded as the essence and moral cornerstone of the nursing profession, shaping how nurses understand their roles, form therapeutic relationships, and deliver compassionate, patient-centered care. For first-year nursing students, the concept of caring represents both an ideal and a developing practice—something learned, experienced, negotiated, and internalized as they transition from laypersons to future professionals. To explore the lived meanings and personal understandings of caring among first-year nursing students and to identify how caring is constructed, influenced, and integrated into early professional identity formation within the context of Generation Z learners.

Methodology: A descriptive qualitative research design employing Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach was utilized. The study was conducted at a higher education institution in Cabanatuan City, Philippines, from August to December 2025. Participants were ten first-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students who were recruited through purposive sampling. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted to elicit detailed accounts of how caring was experienced and understood. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded. Analysis proceeded through the six phases of thematic analysis including familiarization, code generation, theme development, review, definition, and reporting. Ethical procedures, including informed consent and confidentiality protections, were observed throughout the study.

Results: Five major themes emerged: (1) Authentic Caring Connection, characterized by emotional validation, genuine presence, and mental health–oriented caring; (2) Caring Formalized by Nursing Education, where caring shifted from intuitive and personal to structured and professional; (3) Limited Ability to Care, depicting skill gaps, anxiety, and emotional overload during early training; (4) Caring Learned by Watching Others, revealing role modeling from instructors, peers, and simulations as primary learning mechanisms; and (5) Caring as Professional Identity, where caring became intertwined with motivation, purpose, and envisioned future nurse-self. Collectively, findings suggested that caring for novice students is relationally grounded, pedagogically mediated, emotionally challenging, socially transmitted, and professionally defining.

Conclusion: First-year nursing students conceptualize caring as both an emotional and professional phenomenon shaped by personal history, educational structures, and observational learning. Despite strong caring intentions, students encounter emotional and skill-based limitations that constrain caring enactment during early training. Caring ultimately becomes central to professional identity formation, particularly among Generation Z learners who value authenticity and mental health. Findings underscore the need for nursing curricula that intentionally model caring behaviors, scaffold emotional and communication skills, and provide psychologically safe learning environments that support caring development at the foundational stage.

Maternal Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Exchange Blood Transfusion among Neonates at a Tertiary Teaching Hospital in Nigeria

2026-02-14T06:40:39+00:00

Background: Exchange blood transfusion (EBT) is one of the critical interventions in neonatal care, particularly in the management of severe hyperbilirubinaemia. However, maternal hesitation and delays in consent can arise when mothers have limited understanding of the procedure or when fears about safety outweigh perceived benefits. This study examined mothers’ knowledge and attitude towards EBT among mothers of babies admitted to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH).

Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was conducted among 150 mothers of neonates admitted to the SCBU over a two-month period, from August to September 2025. Data used in this study were obtained using a structured and validated questionnaire, and were analysed using Statistical Product and Services Solution (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise knowledge and attitude, while chi-square tests were applied to examine associations between socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge and attitude. Statistical significance of association was determined at p < 0.05.

Results: Awareness of EBT among the mothers was strongest around the basic description of EBT and its common indication, as 83.3% of the women affirmed that it involves transfusing babies with blood, while 73.3% affirmed that it is used for severe neonatal jaundice. The overall knowledge of EBT was 52.8%. Attitude towards EBT was largely favourable, as 66.0% of the mothers demonstrated positive attitude towards EBT. Knowledge of EBT was significantly associated with age, educational attainment, parity, and religion. Also, attitude was significantly associated with age (p = 0.016), educational attainment (p = 0.001), and parity (p = 0.002), whereas marriage type (p = 0.096) and religion (p = 0.104) were not significantly associated with attitude.

Conclusion: Mothers exhibited high awareness of EBT with an overall positive attitude; however, knowledge accuracy was moderate, and marked by persistent uncertainty regarding specific clinical indications. Strengthening structured counselling, with emphasis on clear indications, safety safeguards, and infection prevention, may improve maternal confidence and support timely decision-making regarding EBT.

Effect of Nurse-led Education on Health-related Quality of Life among Diabetes Mellitus Patients at Secondary Healthcare Facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria

2026-02-16T08:24:04+00:00

Background: This study evaluated the impact of nurse-led education on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Objective: The aim was to determine changes in HRQoL across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains following a structured nurse-led educational intervention.

Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post design was used, involving 332 adults with T2DM recruited from secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna South and Chikun Local Government Areas. Participants attended three weekly nurse-led education sessions covering self-management, coping strategies, lifestyle modification, and medication adherence. HRQoL was assessed at baseline and four weeks post-intervention using the WHOQOL-BREF. Paired t-tests compared mean scores, with effect sizes calculated using Cohen’s d.

Results: Significant improvements were observed in all HRQoL domains. Physical health scores increased from 54.2 to 61.0 (d=0.68, p<0.001) and psychological well-being from 51.5 to 57.4 (d=0.61, p<0.001). Social relationships (56.3 to 59.5; d=0.29, p<0.001) and environmental factors (58.9 to 61.0; d=0.23, p<0.001) also improved, though with smaller effect sizes. Subdomain analysis showed gains in daily activities, energy, mobility, positive feelings, and self-esteem.

Conclusion: Nurse-led education produced meaningful improvements in physical and psychological health, with additional benefits in social and environmental well-being. Integrating structured nurse-led education into routine diabetes care could enhance self-management and overall quality of life for T2DM patients in similar resource-constrained settings.

Insight of Digital Health-Seeking Behavior among Elderly in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

2026-02-17T11:33:15+00:00

Aim: The rising use of digital platforms for health information has influenced how elderly adults interpret symptoms and make health-related decisions. Understanding these behaviors is essential to support safe and informed health engagement among aging populations. This study examined the online health-seeking behavior of elderly adults in Nueva Ecija, focusing on how digital platforms are used for symptom interpretation, disease information, and personal health decision-making.

Methodology: A descriptive qualitative research design was utilized. Data were collected from ten elderly adults who actively engage with online health information for self-care or health-related decisions. Data were analyzed thematically to identify perceived benefits, challenges, and behavioral patterns associated with digital health use.

Results: Findings revealed that online platforms were predominantly used to search for symptoms, medications, and disease-related information. Convenience, immediacy, and cost-savings were identified as major benefits. However, participants also expressed concerns regarding the credibility of online sources, misinformation, and difficulties interpreting complex health information. Online health resources influenced certain decisions such as self-care and delayed medical consultation, but did not fully replace professional healthcare advice.

Conclusion: Elderly adults are increasingly engaging with digital health platforms for initial health assessment. While online health information supports autonomy and accessibility, it also introduces risks related to misinterpretation and misinformation. Digital health literacy interventions tailored for elderly populations are necessary to ensure safe and informed use of online health resources.

Developing A Conceptual Framework for Effective Dissemination and Implementation of Doula Support Service in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

2026-02-24T10:41:39+00:00

Background: Maternal morbidity and mortality in Bayelsa State are worsened by gaps in culturally congruent companionship, communication, and psychosocial support across pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. Continuous, non-clinical support can improve women’s experiences and help mitigate the “three delays” in seeking, reaching, and receiving timely care.

Objective: To develop a conceptual framework to guide effective dissemination and implementation of doula support services in Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

Methods: Phase Two synthesised Phase One qualitative and quantitative findings. Concepts were classified using Dickoff et al.’s survey-list elements (agent, recipient, context, dynamics, process, and terminus) and then structured and described using Chinn and Kramer’s theory-generative steps.

Results: Agents comprised the State Ministry of Health, facility leadership, nurses, midwives, obstetricians, doula trainers/mentors, media, civil society organisations, and faith/women’s groups; recipients included pregnant/postpartum women, partners/families, and community influencers. The process specified sequential actions: policy development and adoption, professional endorsement, training and certification, facility integration, community dissemination, piloting with iterative scale-up, monitoring, and sustainability. Dynamics emphasised financing and logistics, government commitment, partnerships, communication, and cultural tailoring; intended outcomes were awareness, acceptability, adoption, fidelity, reduced delays, and improved maternal–neonatal indices. Long-term evaluation is essential.

Conclusion: The framework offers a pragmatic pathway for institutionalising doula services through coordinated, stakeholder-driven action and feedback-based improvement. Midwives should lead role clarification, supervise doulas, integrate supportive-care documentation into routine maternity workflows, and drive monitoring and quality-improvement cycles to embed respectful, woman-centred care at scale.

Mental Health Screening and Referral Pathways among First Year College Students: A Case Analysis in the Philippine Context

2026-02-24T12:30:02+00:00

Background: Mental health of college student has been concern for public health due to increased risk of psychological distress. The transition from Senior High School to college brought changes such as social expectation in academic achievement which add mental health stressors This include mental health problem such as stress, anxiety, depression which the university student often encounter. In the Philippines, issues such as stress due to demand of academic institution become concern among college student which impact on their mental health. Data in the year 2021 supported from the National Center for Mental Health that 21,468 calls were received in the hotline which a total of 7600 related to suicide and 4800 out on it from below 17 years old.

Purpose: The aim of the study is to explore and evaluate Mental Health Screening Process and Referral Pathways Among First year College students in selected University in Metro Manila. This will help to assess the process of screening, strategies, and programs for mental health awareness with in the campus.

Methods: A descriptive case analysis was conducted at selected University in Metro Manila. Data were collected through document review and interviews. A total of 293 from a population of 1031 first year students who participated on the survey on Mental Health well-being. For the Institution Personnel a total of twenty five faculty who participated on interview in the assessment of identification on the students who are possible at risk in mental issues and Ten participants who participated in the interview from School Nurse, Guidance Counsellor and Staff from Students Affairs Office. The setting were conducted in selected University in Metro Manila.

Results: The study presented four major themes in the assessment of mental health screening and referral pathways among college students. The major themes as follows: (1) Early Detection and Appropriate Screening Tool (2) Stress Management and Follow up Program (3) Accessibility and Awareness of the Services (4) Healthy Campus Support Student Well Being.

Conclusion: The case analysis highlights the importance of addressing the mental health issues that Colleges Students encounter. The study emphasizes the importance of Early Detection methods in responding to the mental health issues among College Students. A collaborative approach to promote Mental Health Education leverage on healthy mental well-being and academic success among College Students.

Labour Pain Perception and Management Experiences among Postpartum Women in Urban-Periurban Primary Healthcare Settings in Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

2026-02-26T13:06:58+00:00

Background: Labour pain represents one of the most severe acute pain experiences in obstetrics, profoundly affecting maternal satisfaction, psychological well-being, and postpartum recovery. In urban-periurban primary healthcare settings, where advanced analgesia options are limited, pain perception and management are influenced by physiological mechanisms, obstetric interventions, socio-demographic factors, and deficiencies in access and supportive care.

Aims: This cross-sectional study investigated labour pain perception and management experiences among postpartum women in primary healthcare centres in Obio/Akpor, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting postpartum women aged 15–49 years who had vaginal deliveries within three months prior to data collection. Using the Taro Yamane formula, 393 participants were sampled from six facilities via simple random balloting (n = 393). Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire adapted from validated instruments, with test-retest reliability index of 0.82. The instrument was used to assess socio-demographic characteristics and study main variables. Data obtained were analysed in Statistical Product and Services Solution (SPSS) version 27 using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Non-pharmacological methods were rated not effective at all by 46.1% of participants, and only 1.0% rated them very effective. Pharmacological approaches were rated moderately effective by 60.3% of participants, while very high effectiveness was uncommon. Overall, 50.9% rated provider-led pain management as moderately effective, while 39.2% disagreed that pain relief was readily accessible. Pentazocine injections were most recommended, 55.0%, while epidural analgesia was rarely recommended, 2.0%. Experiences were mixed: 39.9% agreed or strongly agreed that they had a very good experience, 50.1% disagreed or strongly disagreed, yet 82.9% agreed that providers were attentive and supportive. Perceived effectiveness of labour pain relief had a statistically significant relationship with marital status (p = .001) and pain relief method (p = .027), as well as religion, education, and parity (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Findings underscore constrained access, opioid reliance, and suboptimal benefits from non-pharmacological strategies in the study area. Enhancing multimodal protocols, caregiver competencies in supportive care, and equitable analgesia provision is imperative for advancing woman-centred intrapartum practices.

Exploring Mental Health Nurses’ Lived of Workplace Anti-bullying Rights: A Qualitative Descriptive Study in the Philippines

2026-02-28T11:19:36+00:00

Aim: Workplace bullying remains a significant occupational hazard in nursing, contributing to psychological distress, burnout, and workforce instability. Philippine health policy affirms healthcare workers rights against bullying, harassment, and discrimination; however, limited qualitative evidence exists on how these protections are recognized and implemented in practice. This study explored the perspectives of mental health nurses on institutional recognition and implementation of anti-bullying rights in the Philippine healthcare context.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was employed. Ten mental health nurses in the Philippines, each with at least ten years of clinical experience, were selected purposively. Data were gathered expert-validated semi-structured online interviews, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s framework. Data collection continued until saturation was achieved.

Results and Discussion: Three interrelated themes emerged: (1) institutional protection, enforcement, and compliance; (2) organizational and sociocultural barriers to exercising rights; and (3) psychological and professional consequences of protection gaps. Although institutional policies formally recognize healthcare workers’ rights, inconsistent enforcement, limited transparency in reporting systems, and variable leadership accountability hinder meaningful protection. Hierarchical workplace culture, fear of retaliation, and normalization of incivility further restrict nurses’ ability to exercise their rights. These gaps contributes to emotional distress, burnout, reduced job satisfaction, and intentions to leave the profession.

Conclusions: Workplace bullying in mental health nursing is a systemic organizational phenomenon shaped by policy implementation, workplace culture, and individual psychological outcomes. Formal recognition of anti-bullying rights is insufficient without consistent institutional enforcement, psychologically safe leadership, and supportive organizational environments.

Recommendations: Institutions should enforce policies consistently, ensure confidential reporting, promote psychological safe leadership and provide mental health support. Health-system monitoring and multi-site or longitudinal research are recommended to sustain protection and support quality of mental health services.

Assessing Community Knowledge of Yellow Fever in Nigeria’s North East: Implications for Symptom Recognition, Transmission Awareness, and Prevention Practices

2026-03-02T07:32:56+00:00

Background: Yellow fever remains a recurrent public health concern in Nigeria’s North East, where suboptimal vaccination coverage, ecological suitability for mosquito vectors, and health system constraints increase vulnerability to outbreaks. Community knowledge of symptoms, transmission pathways, and preventive measures is critical for early care-seeking, vaccination uptake, and effective vector control.

Objective: To assess knowledge of yellow fever among residents of North East Nigeria, focusing on symptom recognition, transmission awareness, and prevention practices, and to examine the association between socioeconomic factors and knowledge levels.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 563 adults across six states (Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising 18 knowledge items. Responses were scored using a 5-point Likert scale (1–5), and total knowledge scores were converted to percentages and categorized as good (≥75%), moderate (50–74%), or poor (<50%). Descriptive statistics summarized mean scores and awareness levels, while chi-square and logistic regression analyses examined associations between socioeconomic variables (independent variables) and knowledge level (dependent variable). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Overall knowledge was moderate. Participants demonstrated relatively higher awareness of common symptoms (mean = 2.80, SD = 0.846) and mosquito-borne transmission (mean = 2.85, SD = 0.858) compared to environmental prevention measures (mean = 2.60, SD = 0.658). Vaccination was widely recognized as a preventive strategy (mean = 2.75, SD = 0.663), though gaps persisted regarding comprehensive prevention practices. Lower income, limited education, and reduced access to healthcare were significantly associated with poorer knowledge and lower perceived awareness of transmission pathways (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Knowledge of yellow fever in North East Nigeria is moderate, with notable gaps in comprehensive prevention awareness beyond vaccination. Socioeconomic disparities significantly influence knowledge levels. Strengthened risk communication, expanded vaccination outreach, and community-based vector control education are necessary to enhance preventive practices and outbreak preparedness in the region.

Impact of Buerger-Allen Exercises on Peripheral Circulation in Hospitalized Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Controlled Pretest–Posttest Study

2026-03-04T11:43:32+00:00

Background: This study investigated the effectiveness of Buerger-Allen exercises on lower extremity perfusion in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, addressing the increased risk of peripheral arterial disease in this population.

Materials and Methods: A true experimental, pretest-posttest repeated measures design with a control group (n=10 per group) was employed. Twenty patients were randomized, with the experimental group performing Buerger-Allen exercises three times daily for 15 days. Lower extremity perfusion was assessed at pretest and three post-tests (days 5, 10, 15) using a self-developed scale. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and paired 't' tests.

Results: At pretest, no significant difference in perfusion was observed between groups for either leg (Right Leg: F=0.802, p=0.440; Left Leg: F=0.802, p=0.440). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant main effects for Group (F=36.424, p=0.0001*) and Assessment (F=187.284, p=0.0001*), alongside a crucial significant interaction effect between Assessment and Group (F=291.21, p=0.0001*), indicating differential changes over time between groups for both legs.

For the experimental group, significant progressive improvements in perfusion scores were observed from pretest to all post-tests for both right (e.g., Pretest vs. Post Test 3: Mean Difference=9.30, t=10.391, p=0.0001*) and left legs (e.g., Pretest vs. Post Test 3: Mean Difference=9.30, t=10.391, p=0.0001*). In contrast, the control group showed no significant changes in perfusion scores across any time points for either leg (all p > 0.05). Post-hoc tests confirmed significant between-group differences at all post-test time points for both legs (e.g., Post-test III: Mean Difference=8.900, p=0.0001*).

Conclusion: Buerger-Allen exercises significantly improved lower extremity perfusion in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with the experimental group demonstrating substantial and progressive improvements compared to the control group for both right and left legs. While promising, the small sample size (n=20) necessitates cautious interpretation and calls for further research with larger cohorts.

Bridging Clinical Practice and Research: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study of Clinical Research Nurses in Academic Medical Centers

2026-03-07T11:33:58+00:00

The global growth of clinical trials has increased the demand for nurses knowledgeable of integrating research in clinical practice. Thus, this qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of clinical research nurses (CRNs) in academic medical centers, emphasizing their dual roles in delivering patient-centered care and upholding research integrity. This study was conducted in the United States, within the context of the expanding global clinical research environment. CRNs operate at the convergence of clinical practice and scientific investigation, yet their voices remain underrepresented in scholarly discourse. Guided by Jowsey et al., (2021), semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve participants selected through purposive sampling, this study illuminated the complex realities CRNs face as they navigate ethical dilemmas, identity ambiguity, and professional growth within research-intensive environments. Trustworthiness was ensured through member checking and data validation. Thematic analysis yielded three major themes: (1) Navigating Dual Roles in Clinical and Research Domains, highlighting the tensions between patient advocacy and strict protocol compliance; (2) Building Competency and Confidence in Research Practice, capturing how nurses developed regulatory knowledge, refined documentation skills, and applied clinical judgment through experiential learning; and (3) Professional Fulfillment and Career Advancement, illustrating the meaningful contributions CRNs make to science and the satisfaction they derive from recognition and leadership opportunities. Findings underscore the importance of formal training, institutional support, and recognition frameworks to empower CRNs in their hybrid roles. Addressing ethical, educational, and structural challenges is critical to ensuring both research quality and nurse well-being. This study contributes new insights into the evolving identity of CRNs and calls for more inclusive policies and professional development strategies that position them as integral members of the research enterprise. Strategies to ensure trustworthiness, including peer debriefing, reflexive memo-writing, and participant validation of key interpretations, enhanced the rigor of the analysis.

Yellow Fever Vaccination in North East Nigeria: Coverage, Uptake, and Barriers to Achieving Optimal Immunization Rates

2026-03-07T11:57:06+00:00

Background: Yellow fever remains a significant public health threat in Nigeria’s North East, with recurrent outbreaks driven largely by suboptimal vaccination coverage. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 80% population coverage to prevent yellow fever transmission; however, coverage in conflict-affected regions remains inadequate. Understanding vaccination uptake and context-specific barriers is essential for designing effective immunization strategies.

Objective: The present study assesses yellow fever vaccination coverage and uptake in North East Nigeria and identifies barriers hindering achievement of the WHO-recommended coverage threshold.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a multistage cluster sampling technique across six states (Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe). Of the 650 adults initially selected, 563 respondents completed the survey and were included in the final analysis. Data were collected using structured questionnaires capturing vaccination status, awareness of vaccination services, and perceived barriers to uptake. Descriptive statistics summarized coverage levels, while inferential analyses examined associations between socio-demographic variables and vaccination status. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: Overall, 57% of respondents reported being vaccinated, substantially below the WHO-recommended 80% coverage threshold, leaving 43% unvaccinated. Vaccination uptake was significantly higher among respondents with tertiary education and regular access to healthcare services (p < 0.05). Major barriers to vaccination included lack of awareness of vaccination sites (38%), long distances to health facilities (34%), fear of vaccine side effects (22%), and conflict-related insecurity and population displacement (16%). Lower income and limited educational attainment were significantly associated with reduced vaccination uptake.

Conclusion: Yellow fever vaccination coverage in North East Nigeria remains critically below the WHO-recommended level required for effective disease control. Limited awareness, access barriers, vaccine hesitancy, socioeconomic constraints, and conflict-related displacement continue to impede optimal uptake. Strengthening routine immunization, improving risk communication, and implementing targeted strategies for conflict-affected and hard-to-reach populations are essential to achieving herd immunity and preventing future outbreaks.

A Comparative Study of Nurses’ Turnover Rate Working in Urban and Rural Areas

2026-03-14T09:20:36+00:00

Aim: This study examined differences in work-life balance, organizational commitment, and turnover intention among nurses working in urban and rural hospitals in Luzon, Philippines, and explored the relationships among these variables.

Methodology: A comparative-descriptive cross-sectional design was employed. A total of 240 registered nurses (120 urban, 120 rural) were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using validated Likert-type instruments measuring work-life balance, organizational commitment, and turnover intention. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, and Pearson correlation analyses were conducted using SPSS at a 0.05 significance level.

Results: Urban nurses reported significantly lower work-life balance and organizational commitment compared to rural nurses, and significantly higher turnover intention. Work-life balance and organizational commitment were both negatively correlated with turnover intention, while work-life balance demonstrated a positive association with organizational commitment.

Conclusion: Workplace context significantly influences nurse retention dynamics. Urban settings appear to intensify strain-related turnover drivers, whereas rural settings present retention challenges linked to professional development limitations. Differentiated, context-sensitive retention strategies are essential to strengthen workforce sustainability in the Philippines.

Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices of Pain Management in End-of-Life Care: A Qualitative Study in Ghana

2026-03-18T10:14:29+00:00

Background: Effective pain management is central to end-of-life (EOL) care, yet patients in low- and middle-income countries often experience preventable suffering. Nurses, as frontline providers, play a pivotal role in pain control; however, there is a paucity of Ghanaian qualitative evidence exploring nurses’ knowledge and practices regarding EOL pain management.

Aim: To explore nurses’ knowledge and practices of pain management in EOL care.

Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was conducted at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, a tertiary hospital in Ghana. Sixteen registered nurses were recruited using purposive sampling. Data was collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted until data saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s framework. Data analysis was conducted manually through iterative coding and theme development.

Results: Two major themes emerged: nurses’ understanding of pain, and their pain management practices. Most nurses conceptualized pain in biomedical terms, though some acknowledged psychological and emotional dimensions. While familiar with standardized assessment tools, nurses often relied on patient self-report and observational cues. Pharmacological interventions, particularly opioids such as morphine, were commonly used but constrained by availability and cost. Non-pharmacological strategies, including repositioning, conversation, and music, were applied to complement pharmacological care.

Conclusion: Nurses demonstrated awareness of the multidimensional nature of pain, but inconsistencies in assessment and systemic barriers limit effective EOL care. Strengthening palliative care education, institutional pain management protocols, and national policies to improve opioid accessibility is critical to enhancing nursing practice and improving quality of life for patients at the end of life.

Relationship between Coping Strategies and Quality of Life among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Selected Secondary Healthcare Facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria

2026-03-19T06:17:56+00:00

Background: Coping strategies play a central role in determining psychological adjustment, self-management behaviours, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among individuals with chronic illnesses such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, limited evidence exists on how specific coping styles influence HRQoL in Nigerian populations.

Objective: To examine the relationship between coping strategies and HRQoL among patients with T2DM attending selected secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 332 adults with T2DM recruited from secondary healthcare facilities in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires, including the Brief COPE Inventory and the WHOQOL-BREF. Coping strategies were categorized into five domains derived from the Brief COPE: Problem-focused, Social Support, Spiritual, Emotion-focused, and Cognitive Reframing. Spearman's rank-order correlation was used to assess associations between these coping domains and HRQoL indicators. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of coping strategies showed no statistically significant correlation with HRQoL domains. Social support coping demonstrated a weak, negative correlation with physical functioning (r<sub>s</sub> = -0.125, p = 0.023). Cognitive reframing showed a weak, positive correlation with the pain impact facet of HRQoL (r<sub>s</sub> = 0.184, p < 0.001). No other significant relationships were found between problem-focused, emotion-focused, or spiritual coping and any HRQoL domain.

Conclusion: Cognitive reframing appears modestly beneficial for pain management in T2DM patients, while excessive reliance on social support is associated with the physical functioning. These findings underscore the importance of promoting adaptive coping strategies within diabetes education programs.

Assessment of Academic Stress and Coping Mechanisms among Entry-level Nursing Students in Nigeria: Baseline Findings from the Pioneer Cohort at Abdulrashid Dankoli College of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna

2026-03-19T07:10:39+00:00

Nursing education is academically demanding and psychologically taxing, yet limited research exists on stress among entry-level nursing students in Nigeria's newly established institutions. This study assessed academic stress levels, identified predominant stressors, and examined coping mechanisms among the pioneer cohort of entry-level nursing students at Abdulrashid Dankoli College of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 40 entry-level National Diploma I nursing students (census sampling). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), adapted Nursing Student Stressors Questionnaire, and Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) Inventory. Analysis employed descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Respondents were predominantly female (92.5%, n=37) and single (75%, n=30), with 65% (n=26) residing with family. Perceived stress levels showed 42% (n=17) experiencing moderate stress, 22% (n=9) high stress, and 12% (n=5) severe stress. The major stress indicators revealed 34% (n=14) frequently felt nervous/stressed, while 28% (n=11) felt unable to control important things. The highest-rated stressors were large content volume (mean=3.2±1.2), fear of clinical mistakes (mean=3.1±1.2), and fear of failing exams (mean=3.0±1.3). Financial pressure scored mean=2.9±1.4. Adaptive coping strategies predominated: planning (mean=3.0±0.9), active coping (mean=2.8±1.0), and acceptance (mean=2.7±1.1). However, self-blame (mean=2.4±1.2) was the highest maladaptive strategy, exceeding several adaptive approaches. Substance use was lowest (mean=1.4±0.7). The Entry-level nursing students experience moderate-to-high academic stress primarily from content volume and clinical fears. While students employ adaptive coping strategies, elevated self-blame scores warrant targeted mental health interventions.

Family Adaptability Cohesion and Transcultural Nursing Care Competence among Student Nurses: A Descriptive Correlational Study

2026-03-21T08:22:49+00:00

The family environment has a big impact on how people develop their attitudes, values, and professional skills. Family cohesiveness and adaptation may have an impact on nursing students' capacity to deliver culturally appropriate care. This study investigated the association between family adaptation, family cohesion, and transcultural nursing care competence among student nurses using the Olson Circumplex Model of Family Systems as a guide. 305 Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 nursing students from a particular private school in Iloilo City participated in a descriptive correlational study design. Stratified random sampling was used to choose the participants. The Cultural Competence Scale (CCS) and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES III) were used to gather data in order to evaluate cultural sensitivity, cultural knowledge, and cultural abilities. The link between the variables was ascertained using Spearman Rank-Order Correlation. The results showed that the majority of respondents came from organized households with varying degrees of cohesiveness, suggesting that family systems were moderately balanced. The transcultural nursing care competency of student nurses ranged from moderate to high (M = 3.38). The domains with the highest mean score were cultural sensitivity (M = 3.51), cultural knowledge (M = 3.35), and cultural skills (M = 3.29). According to statistical analysis, there is a substantial positive correlation between family adaptation and transcultural nursing care competence (r =.299, p <.05) and between family cohesion and transcultural nursing care competence (r =.242, p <.05). The results indicate that greater levels of transcultural nursing care competency among student nurses are linked to supportive and flexible family situations. Future nurses may be more equipped to deliver patient-centered, culturally sensitive care if family support networks are strengthened and culturally responsive training is incorporated into nursing education.

Clinical Learning Environment's Relationship to Readiness for Practice among Graduating Student Nurses in a Private College in Iloilo City

2026-03-21T11:09:23+00:00

Introduction: Graduating student nurses must adapt to the clinical learning environment while preparing for professional practice. Their readiness is influenced by academic and experiential factors. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the clinical learning environment and readiness for practice among graduating student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, during Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive–correlational research design was employed. The study included 222 Level IV Bachelor of Science in Nursing students, selected through simple random sampling from a population of 518 students. Data were collected using two adopted instruments: the Abbreviated Clinical Learning Environment Inventory (CLEI-19) and the Casey-Fink Readiness for Practice Survey. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) were computed to assess the levels of clinical learning environment and readiness for practice. Normality was evaluated using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and Spearman’s rho correlation was applied at a 0.05 significance level due to non-normal data distribution. Results: The clinical learning environment was generally positive (M = 3.83), and students’ readiness for practice reflected a moderately high level of perceived preparedness (M = 3.22). Spearman’s rho analysis indicated a statistically significant but weak positive relationship between the clinical learning environment and readiness for practice (r = .159, p = .018). Clinical facilitator support and satisfaction with clinical placements were associated with higher engagement in learning activities, while higher-level clinical reasoning and overall practice readiness were less strongly influenced.

Discussion and Recommendations: A supportive clinical learning environment promotes engagement in learning activities and moderately enhances readiness for professional practice. To further improve preparedness, it is recommended that clinical instructors strengthen mentorship, provide consistent feedback, and encourage student-centered learning. Students are encouraged to actively communicate their learning needs and engage in reflective practice. Institutional support for faculty development and simulation-based training may further optimize clinical learning experiences and facilitate the transition from student to professional nurse.

Nurses’ Self-efficacy and Professional Identity in to Occupational Commitment

2026-03-23T06:57:15+00:00

Background: Nurses play major roles in the management of care, recovery plan and overall patient care. It requires dynamic role in providing awareness. Nurses globally experience shortage of staff nurses that need to be address the rest of the world, China is struggling with a severe shortage of Registered Nurses. The ongoing nurse shortage is raising questions about the impact of nurse turnover on the well-being of nurses, quality of patient care and the healthcare system. Nurse self-efficacy impacts the clinical roles in the hospital to perform action toward specific circumferences which is important core in facing new challenges in the area. The higher the self-efficacy the more nurse is satisfied on their work and enhance professional identity. Self-efficacy is important in handling stressful situation like pressure in work. Having low self-efficacy can cause stress to the work of the nurse and will lead to burn out. The correlation of professional identity and self-efficacy in patient care need further study.

Purpose: The aim of the study is to determine the relationship of nurse self-efficacy and professional identity into occupational commitment among Chinese Nurse in Jiangsu, China. The findings provide evidence for clinical practice and to reduce nurse turn over in the hospital setting. This will help to create initiative for strengthening nurses’ professional identity.

Methods: The utilized the quantitative design, specifically the descriptive-correlational research design. A Total of 278 Registered nurses in Jiangsu, China who participated on the study.

Results: It shows that Self-Efficacy and Occupational Commitment, strong and statistically significant positive correlations across all domains of occupational commitment. The Professional Identity and Occupational Commitment consistently very strong and statistically significant positive correlations across domain.

Conclusion: Self- efficacy has proven to enhance occupational commitment and better confidence of nurses in their own abilities in performing task while professional identity upholds determinants in the internalization of professional values that promote sense of belonging to the profession which greatly influence in long term commitment in the occupation.

Library Satisfaction and Utilization among Student Nurses

2026-03-25T06:44:38+00:00

Aims: To determine the level of library satisfaction and utilization among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City. Specifically, it examined students’ satisfaction with library resources and collections, services, and facilities, and determined whether a significant relationship exists between library satisfaction and library utilization.

Study Design: This study employed a descriptive–correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private college in Iloilo City, during the second semester of the academic year (2025–2026). While data was collected in January 2026.

Methodology: The study included 325 nursing students selected through stratified random sampling from a total population of 2,078 students. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire consisting of a Library Satisfaction Scale and a Library Utilization Scale. Descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used to analyze the respondents’ profile, level of satisfaction, and extent of library utilization. Spearman’s rho correlation was used to determine the relationship between library satisfaction and library utilization.

Results: The findings revealed that the majority of respondents frequently visited the library for academic purposes such as studying, completing assignments, and participating in group discussions. Student nurses were generally satisfied with the library, with library services obtaining the highest satisfaction rating, followed by resources and collections, while facilities received the lowest satisfaction rating. In terms of utilization, most respondents demonstrated a high level of library use (66.8%), while 31.4% showed moderate utilization and 1.8% showed low utilization. Correlation analysis showed a statistically significant but weak positive relationship between library satisfaction and library utilization (rs = 0.197, P < .001).

Conclusion: Nursing students are generally satisfied with library resources, services, and facilities and actively utilize the library for academic purposes. Although satisfaction significantly influences library utilization, the relationship is weak, suggesting that other factors may also affect students’ library usage.

Reliance on Artificial Intelligence and Emotional Intelligence Among Student Nurses in a Private College in Iloilo

2026-03-28T12:38:59+00:00

The growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education has prompted concerns regarding its potential influence on emotional intelligence (EI), particularly among student nurses whose professions require empathy and interpersonal competence. This study sought to examine the relationship between reliance on AI tools and the emotional intelligence of student nurses. Employing a descriptive-correlational design, the study involved a total of 305 student nurses from second-fourth year student nurses enrolled in a private college in Iloilo during the second semester of academic year 2025-2026. Data were collected using an adapted questionnaire measuring AI reliance in terms of availability, functionality, and complexity, and EI across five domains: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, social skills, and empathy. The Shapiro-Wilk test indicated that the data was not normally distributed (p = .004); therefore, Spearman’s rho correlation analysis was employed. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection. The findings revealed that overall reliance on artificial intelligence among student nurses was an average level (M=2.68), whereas the overall level of emotional intelligence was high (M = 3.11), with empathy demonstrating the highest mean score (M = 3.25). Spearman’s rho analysis indicated a very weak yet statistically significant positive relationship between overall AI reliance and emotional intelligence (rs = 0.164, p = 0.004). Furthermore, AI availability exhibits weak but significant positive correlation with all domains of emotional intelligence, with the most substantial association identified in empathy (rs = .252, P < .001). The study concludes that AI reliance presents both beneficial and adverse implications for student nurses’ emotional intelligence. It underscores the importance of integrating curricula and support systems that foster technological competence alongside humanistic values.

Secondhand Smoke Knowledge, Attitude, and Avoidance Behavior in a Highly Urbanized Area in Iloilo City

2026-03-30T12:58:38+00:00

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and avoidance behaviors regarding secondhand smoke exposure among household heads in a highly urbanized area in Iloilo City. Specifically, the study sought to describe the respondents’ demographic profile and examine the relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and avoidance behaviors toward secondhand smoke exposure.

Study Design: This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design. This paper reports the quantitative component of a larger mixed-methods study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a selected barangay in Iloilo City, Philippines, a highly urbanized area characterized by densely populated households. Data collection was collected in January 2026.

Methodology: The study included 361 household heads aged 18 years and above in a highly urbanized barangay in Iloilo City, Philippines, using convenience sampling to ensure geographical representation. Data collection was carried out in January 2026, with all targeted respondents completing the survey (100% response rate). The instruments underwent validation by three expert validators, and reliability testing showed acceptable to excellent internal consistency. Signed informed consent and ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection.

Results: A total of 361 respondents participated in the study. The majority of respondents were female (65.1%), aged 18–25 years (37.1%), and had college-level education (40.2%). Respondents demonstrated favorable knowledge regarding SHS health risks (M = 13.88/16, 86.74%), supportive attitudes toward preventing exposure (M = 4.09/5), and consistent avoidance behaviors in several situations (M = 2.95/4). Spearman’s rho analysis showed a significant but very weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (rs = 0.175, p < 0.001), no significant relationship between knowledge and avoidance (rs = −0.045, p = 0.397), and a weak positive correlation between attitude and avoidance behavior (rs = 0.398, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Household heads generally showed favorable knowledge of the health risks of secondhand smoke exposure, though avoidance behaviors varied across households. Strengthening health education and community interventions may help improve consistent avoidance practices. Further studies in different settings are recommended to enhance the generalizability of the findings.

Maternal Awareness and Attitude towards Rainbow Nutrition for under-Five Children in Urban and Rural Sikkim: A Pilot Study

2026-04-01T12:07:02+00:00

Background & Objective: Optimal early childhood nutrition is crucial for growth and development. “Rainbow nutrition,” promoting consumption of diverse colourful fruits and vegetables, enhances dietary diversity and micronutrient intake. However, maternal awareness regarding this concept remains underexplored, particularly in Sikkim. This study aimed to assess maternal awareness and attitude toward rainbow nutrition among mothers of under-five children and examine associated factors.

Methodology: A pilot community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 60 mothers of under-five children residing in urban and rural areas of Gangtok district, Sikkim. Consecutive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographic variables, maternal awareness, and attitude towards rainbow nutrition. Face-to-face interviews were conducted after obtaining informed consent. Data were analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used. Inferential statistics including independent sample t-test and chi-square test were applied to determine differences and associations. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Most urban mothers (73.3%) had good awareness, whereas rural mothers predominantly had moderate (60%) and poor (26.7%) awareness. Urban mothers also demonstrated more favourable attitudes. A significant difference was observed in mean awareness scores between groups, and maternal awareness was significantly associated with husband’s education in urban areas (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Maternal awareness and attitude towards rainbow nutrition were comparatively better among urban mothers than rural mothers. Strengthening community-based nutrition education and behaviour change communication, particularly in rural areas, is essential to promote dietary diversity and improve child health outcomes.

Therapeutic Communication Skills and Confidence among Graduating Student Nurses in Iloilo, Philippines

2026-04-02T07:14:41+00:00

Aims: To determine the relationship between therapeutic communication skills and clinical confidence of graduating student nurses in a selected private institution in Iloilo, Philippines.

Study Design: Descriptive-Correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Nursing of a private institution in Iloilo, Philippines, between September 2025 and February 2026.

Methodology: The total population of graduating student nurses is 517, and with the Raosoft calculator, 221 graduating student nurses from the College of Nursing were determined as the sample size. Using an online platform, the data gathering used two adopted questionnaires, Therapeutic Nursing Scale in Nursing Students and the Level of Clinical Confidence in the Psychiatric Ward. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection.

Results: Findings revealed that graduating student nurses possessed an average to high levels of therapeutic communication skills during their psychiatric ward exposure. It suggested that graduating student nurses were more proficient in basic therapeutic communication skills or practices than advanced therapeutic interventions. In terms of clinical confidence, the findings revealed a majority of the graduating student nurses displayed a high level of confidence in clinical settings. Higher confidence was evident in areas related to interpersonal engagement, in contrast, to a lower confidence level in more complex clinical practices. The correlation analysis supported the existence of a statistically significant relationship between the two variables in accordance to the predetermined level of significance, suggesting that different levels of clinical confidence of the respondents are correlated with their varying levels of therapeutic communication skills.

Conclusion: The differences in confidence across various competencies emphasize the complexity of psychiatric nursing and suggest that confidence is built unevenly depending on the difficulty and familiarity of the skill. The overall professional development in psychiatric nursing is shaped by the interplay between clinical confidence and communication skills, influencing student nurses to properly respond to challenges and navigate clinical interactions.

Perceptions and Utilization of Social Media among Gen Z Student Nurses in a Private Nursing School

2026-04-04T04:55:11+00:00

Background: Social media has become a prominent topic in education as it is increasingly integrated into the daily lives of Generation Z (Gen Z) student nurses. This integration presents both perceived benefits and challenges in adopting digital platforms within the academic setting.

Methodology: This descriptive-correlational study determined the perceptions of Gen Z student nurses toward social media and its utilization, specifically in terms of academic use, academic communication, and personal use. A sample of 325 Gen Z student nurses was calculated using the Raosoft sample size calculator. The respondents were selected through stratified sampling from first- to fourth-year levels. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to the study. Data were collected using an adopted questionnaire distributed via an online Google Form and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rho.

Results: The findings revealed a generally positive perception of social media among Gen Z student nurses. Utilization was predominantly focused on personal use and academic communication, while academic-related use of social media was comparatively less frequent. Furthermore, the correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between perceptions of social media and its utilization.

Conclusion: Perception significantly influences the utilization of social media among Gen Z student nurses. The platforms are primarily used for academic interaction and personal engagement, while their integration for scholarly purposes remains limited. This demonstrates Gen Z student nurses’ preferences and pattern of social media usage. Embracing social media within educational contexts may provide a supportive academic environment for student nurses, provided that institutional and academic guidance are in place.

Usefulness, Acceptance, and Utilization of Artificial Intelligence for Health Information among Employees in a Private School

2026-04-04T05:08:28+00:00

The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is widely regarded as a theory for understanding and adopting technology. The theory highlights perceived usefulness as its central construct to determine behavioral intent leading to utilization. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been used to access and manage health information over the recent years; however, evidence regarding employees’ engagement with AI in school settings have remained limited. Structured on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this descriptive-correlational study determined the perceived usefulness, acceptance, and utilization of AI for health information among 226 employees of a private school in Iloilo. The findings showed perceived usefulness (x̄ = 3.71), particularly for work productivity (x̄ = 3.82). Acceptance was (x̄ = 3.30), strong for updated health trends (x̄ = 3.43). In addition, utilization was (x̄ = 2.97), higher for understanding health trends (x̄ = 3.40) and general information seeking (x̄ = 3.26), but lower for symptom interpretation (x̄ = 2.89), health decisions (x̄ = 2.75), and AI verification over professionals (x̄ = 2.53). Correlation analysis determined that acceptance had stronger relationship with utilization compared to perceived usefulness, this implies that trust and willingness influences actual use more than recognizing benefits. Findings highlight cautious, selective AI engagement for health information.

Perceived Clinical Competence in Healthcare Settings among Graduating Nursing Students

2026-04-04T05:24:08+00:00

Background: Clinical competence is essential in preparing nursing students for safe and effective practice. Differences in clinical exposure across healthcare settings may influence the development of these competencies.

Aims: To assess the perceived clinical competence of graduating nursing students across private and public healthcare settings.

Study Design: Descriptive-Comparative design.

Place and Duration of Study: College of Nursing of a private institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, between 6^th September 2025 and 4^th March 2026.

Methodology: A total of 221 graduating Bachelor of Science in Nursing students were selected from a population of 517 using simple random sampling. Data were collected using the adopted Clinical Competence Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test assessed normality. The Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test was applied to determine differences between settings. Ethical clearance was obtained prior to the conduct of the study.

Results: Findings revealed that among the 221 graduating nursing student respondents, clinical exposure varied across healthcare areas, with greater exposure to specialized units in private healthcare facilities and surgical wards in public settings. Students demonstrated a positive level of perceived clinical competence in both private (mean = 4.02) and public (mean = 3.97) healthcare settings, indicating adequate theoretical knowledge and practical skills but still requiring supervision. Inferential analysis showed a significant difference was found in overall clinical competence (P = .005), particularly in nursing professional behaviors (P = .000) and general performance (P = .003), favoring private healthcare settings. No significant differences were observed in core nursing skills (P = .342) and advanced nursing skills (P = .090).

Conclusion: Graduating nursing students exhibited adequate competence in both settings; however, advanced skills remain underdeveloped. Enhanced clinical exposure and supervision are recommended to improve readiness for independent practice.

Self-Medication: Perceived Severity and Practices among Old Adults in a Selected Municipality in Iloilo

2026-04-04T07:00:11+00:00

Self-medication remains to be a major challenge in the healthcare setting and often considered as self-care for most adults. These old adults often turn to self-medication to cope with the combined effects of several factors including physiologic and cognitive factors. This study aimed to determine the relationship between perceived severity and self-medication practices of old adults in a selected municipality in Iloilo. A quantitative descriptive-correlational design with survey approach as an instrument to gather data was utilized involving 186 old adults. This study underwent an ethical review process before collecting any data and was granted an ethical clearance. Findings revealed that the level of perceived severity of self-medication among the respondents was high, indicating that they are aware of the potential risks and serious effects associated with self-medication. In contrast, the level of self-medication practices was low, which suggests that old adults in this study generally do not engage in such behaviors. In conclusion, these findings indicate that perceived severity plays an important role in influencing self-medication practices, which means that the greater awareness of the consequences, the lower the engagement in self-medication among the old adults. These findings highlighted the importance of enhancing the healthcare system towards utilization of self-medication which will be of great benefit to the elderly population. It is recommended that providers develop accessible health education campaigns focused on risks and consequences involving self-medication and expand the scope to include diverse geographical locations and larger populations.

Factors Associated with Nomophobia among Nursing Students in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-04T12:46:34+00:00

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of nomophobia and identify the demographic and behavioral factors associated with it among nursing students. Specifically, this study aims to answer the following questions: (1) What is the profile of nursing students in terms of sex, year level, number of hours of daily smartphone use, and main reason for smartphone use; (2) What is the level of nomophobia among nursing students ; and (3) Is there a significant difference in the level of nomophobia when grouped according to sex, year level, number of hours of daily smartphone use, and main reason for smartphone use.

Study Design: Quantitative descriptive research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Private college of nursing located in Iloilo City, Philippines, from January 15 and January 28, 2026.

Methodology: A total of 292 nursing students were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q). Descriptive statistics( Mean, Standard Deviation, Frequency and Percentage) and non-parametric tests (Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis) were used for analysis.

Results: The findings revealed that respondents exhibited a positive level of nomophobia (overall mean = 4.33). Among the domains, inability to access information (M = 4.72) and loss of connectedness (M = 4.42) showed the highest levels. Significant differences were found according to sex (p = 0.013), year level (p = 0.021), and daily smartphone use (p = 0.028), indicating that these factors are associated with nomophobia. However, no significant difference was observed based on the main reason for smartphone use (p = 0.628).

Conclusion: Nomophobia is prevalent among undergraduate nursing students and is significantly influenced by demographic and behavioral factors, particularly sex, academic year level, and duration of smartphone use. These findings highlight the need for institutional interventions that promote responsible smartphone use, digital well-being, and effective coping strategies to reduce technology-related anxiety.

Understanding Menstrual Health and Hygiene: Insights from Secondary School Girls in Nigeria

2026-04-06T11:49:16+00:00

Background: Menstrual health remains an under-addressed aspect of adolescent sexual and reproductive health in low- and middle-income countries. Despite increasing awareness, gaps persist in hygienic practices, product affordability, safe disposal, and access to adolescent-friendly services, affecting health, dignity, and school participation.

Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among menstruating secondary school girls in Ado-Ekiti, southwestern Nigeria. Using stratified random sampling, 253 students were selected from two co-educational schools. Data were collected with a pretested, self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographics, menstrual knowledge, practices, and perceptions. Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach’s α = 0.812). Descriptive statistics summarized findings, while chi-square and independent t-tests assessed associations at a 5% significance level.

Results: Most participants were aged 15-18 years. Awareness of menstruation as a biological process was high (>90%), and sanitary pad use was nearly universal (98%). However, only 10.9% practiced correct disposal, revealing a notable knowledge-practice gap. Over half perceived menstrual products as unaffordable or inaccessible, significantly associated with lower monthly allowance (χ² = 23.42, p < 0.001). Receiving menstrual education from a healthcare professional was linked to higher knowledge scores (t = 2.09, p = 0.038) and safer practices, including reduced reuse of menstrual materials (χ² = 15.88, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Despite high menstrual awareness, gaps persist in safe disposal, affordability, and health service engagement. Strengthened school education, improved WASH infrastructure, and policies addressing period poverty could improve menstrual hygiene practices, reduce school absenteeism, and enhance adolescent health and well-being.

Knowledge and Intention to Test for HIV among Students in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-06T12:32:05+00:00

Introduction: HIV remains a significant public health concern in the Philippines, which has the fastest-growing epidemic in the Western Pacific. Cases of infection and related deaths are rising, while HIV testing rates remain low, largely due to stigma, misconceptions, and a perceived lack of need for testing. This study explored the relationship between HIV knowledge and the intention to test for HIV among nursing students at a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, enrolled in the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methods: A descriptive-correlational research design surveyed 325 of 2,090 nursing students (first to fourth year), selected through stratified sampling for fair representation. Two tools gathered data: an adopted questionnaire on HIV knowledge and a researcher-made questionnaire on intention to test for HIV. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) described students’ knowledge and intentions. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test checked data normality, and Spearman’s rho assessed correlation at α = 0.05 given the non-normal data distribution.

Results: Nursing students showed high HIV knowledge (M = 9.57, SD = 0.744) and an intention to test (M = 3.16, SD = 0.640). Statistical analysis revealed a significant but very weak positive relationship between HIV knowledge and intention to test (rₛ = 0.167, P = 0.003). Students were most knowledgeable about the importance of testing and counseling by trained professionals in hospitals. The main motivator for testing was assurance of confidentiality and privacy.

Discussion: Improving HIV knowledge can help reduce stigma and encourage more students to get tested, lowering the number of undiagnosed cases. This underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive HIV education in nursing curricula to make HIV testing a routine and accepted practice.

Conclusion: The study suggests that there is a need for continuous emphasis on key concepts concerning HIV and its clinical implications. These findings underscore the importance of structured institutional measures in promoting positive health intentions among students. Although the strength of the relationship between variables was very weak, knowledge contributes to shaping health-related intentions. The findings align with the principles of the Health Belief Model, which proposes that individuals’ health behaviors are influenced by their awareness, perceptions, and understanding of health-related risk and benefits.

Recommendations: HIV education should be strengthened for nursing students, nurse educators, and administrators to increase the intention to test. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in larger student populations.

Work-life Balance and Intention to Pursue Graduate Studies among Nurses

2026-04-06T12:39:59+00:00

Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between work-life balance and the intention to pursue graduate studies among nurses in a selected hospital in Iloilo.

Study design: A descriptive-correlational, cross-sectional, quantitative design was employed.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a selected hospital in Iloilo City among staff nurses during the Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: The study involved 73 registered nurses selected through total enumeration sampling. Data were collected using a validated survey instrument composed of two parts: work-life balance questionnaire and intention to pursue graduate studies questionnaire. Work-life balance was measured using a 30-item scale, while intention to pursue graduate studies was assessed using a 30-item questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential analysis was conducted using Pearson’s correlation coefficient to determine the relationship between work-life balance and intention to pursue graduate studies.

Results: Nurses demonstrated a high level of work-life balance (M = 3.82, SD = 0.62) and a strong intention to pursue graduate studies (M = 3.80, SD = 0.57). Pearson’s correlation showed a moderate positive relationship between work-life balance and intention to pursue graduate studies (r = 0.561, p = 0.000), indicating that nurses with better work-life balance are more likely to pursue further education.

Conclusion: The assessment revealed that work-life balance significantly influences nurses’ intention to pursue graduate studies. Nurses who are able to manage their professional and personal responsibilities effectively are more motivated to engage in advanced education. The findings suggest that organizational support, flexible scheduling, and work-life balance initiatives may encourage nurses to pursue graduate studies.

A Pilot Study on the Feasibility and Impact of a Targeted Institutional Programme on Contraceptive Methods among Non-Medical Undergraduate Students in Sikkim, India

2026-04-07T07:32:17+00:00

Background: Contraceptive awareness is essential for promoting reproductive health and preventing unintended pregnancies; however, misconceptions persist among non-medical undergraduate students.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a Targeted Institutional Programme on Contraceptive Methods in improving awareness and reducing misconceptions among non-medical undergraduate students.

Methods: A quasi-experimental waitlist-controlled pilot study with a pre-test and post-test design was conducted among 50 non-medical undergraduate students in Sikkim, India (25 intervention, 25 control). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing awareness and misconceptions. The intervention group received Targeted Institutional Programme on Contraceptive Methods, while the control group received the intervention after the post-test. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The intervention group showed a significant increase in awareness scores (t = 10.52, p < 0.001) and a significant reduction in misconceptions (t = 6.422, p < 0.001). No statistically significant changes were observed in the control group.

Conclusion: Targeted Institutional Programme on Contraceptive Methods was effective in improving awareness and reducing misconceptions among non-medical undergraduate students. However, findings should be interpreted with caution due to the pilot nature of the study. Further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these findings.

Factors Influencing Utilization of Menthol Based Inhalers among Student Nurses

2026-04-07T07:40:20+00:00

The use of menthol-based inhalers among student nurses to alleviate nasal discomfort, fatigue, and stress during academic and clinical activities remains an underexplored area in nursing research. The study investigated which factors determined nursing students' usage of menthol-based inhalers by examining their personal characteristics and environmental factors. A descriptive–correlational research design was utilized. Data were collected through modified self-administered questionnaires distributed using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Ethical approval was obtained prior to data collection to ensure the protection of participants’ rights and confidentiality. Findings revealed that nursing students experienced moderate levels of academic stress, alongside high levels of perceived comfort, medical benefits, and exposure to the clinical environment. Inhaler use was moderate and primarily situational, commonly associated with headaches, fatigue, and environmental discomfort. Significant positive correlations were identified between inhaler use and academic stress, as well as between perceived medical benefits and clinical exposure. Among these variables, perceived medical benefits emerged as the strongest predictor of inhaler utilization. The results demonstrate that personal beliefs together with environmental factors both work to determine how nursing students use their inhalers. The findings demonstrate that healthcare professionals need to learn safe evidence-based self-care methods which they should practice throughout their professional careers. The publication expands existing knowledge about menthol-based inhaler use by describing how nursing students use self-care methods to manage their clinical duties and academic pressure. The findings from the study will help create educational programs that nursing schools should implement through their educational policies.

Influence of Clinical Incivility on the Self-Efficacy of Student Nurses in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-08T05:53:12+00:00

Introduction: The phrase “nurses eat their young” reflects a persistent issue in clinical environments, wherein incivility—defined as low-intensity, discourteous, or deviant behavior, whether intentional or unintentional—negatively affects nursing students. Such behaviors compromise communication, teamwork, confidence, and, importantly, students’ self-efficacy. This study aimed to assess the levels of clinical incivility and self-efficacy among student nurses and to examine the relationship between these variables.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed. The research was conducted at a private tertiary institution in Iloilo City, involving 305 second to fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students selected through stratified random sampling.

Results: The domains of clinical incivility were manifested in the majority of nursing students experienced inconsiderate behavior (r= -0.112, p= 0.051) showed the highest occurrence of moderate-level behavior problems while the Abusive Supervision (r= -0.052, p= 0.366) was the least experienced domain. Overall, nursing students experienced mild clinical incivility (r= -0.067, p= 0.242), with inconsiderate behaviors being most frequent. Participants maintained high self-efficacy, demonstrating confidence in their ability to solve problems through effort (M= 3.22).

Discussion: Although overall clinical incivility was not significantly associated with self-efficacy, a weak but statistically significant positive correlation was found between inappropriate joking behaviors and self-efficacy (r = 0.117, p = 0.041). This suggests that such behaviors may have a minimal association with slightly elevated self-efficacy, although the nature of this relationship requires further investigation.

Recommendations: To implement a standardized approach, nursing institutions could consider widening academic clinical partnerships‚ developing anti-incivility policies‚ training faculty and staff on respectful communication‚ and providing structured resiliency programs that focus on student self-efficacy development‚ emotional health and wellbeing‚ and professional development․

Experiences of Nurses in Handling Residents in Nursing Homes

2026-04-09T11:31:31+00:00

Nurses in Philippine geriatric nursing homes play a vital role in improving healthcare outcomes through leadership, collaboration, education, and compassionate, person-centered care. Despite cultural stigma, staffing shortages, heavy workloads, and limited resources, they continue to address residents’ physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs holistically. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of nurses working in nursing homes in Iloilo, focusing on how they deliver compassionate, person-centered care while addressing residents’ physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs despite existing challenges. A descriptive qualitative design was used in this study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with eight (8) participants selected via purposive sampling in selected nursing homes in Iloilo, Philippines. Interviews took place between January and February 2026, with ethical clearance secured prior to data collection. Thematic analysis was utilized to identify key patterns and themes in the participants’ experiences. Findings revealed that nursing home practice is physically demanding yet emotionally meaningful. Nurses provide compassionate, patient-centered care to residents with chronic illnesses, dementia, and long-term dependency despite cultural stigma, staffing shortages, heavy workloads, and limited resources. They employ therapeutic communication, reorientation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and engagement activities to meet residents’ needs. Resilience, adaptability, and understanding serve as protective factors, with compassion and patience central to treating residents like family. However, challenges such as emotional exhaustion and staffing limitations persist. Despite systemic constraints, nurses in nursing homes in Iloilo demonstrate strong resilience and compassion in delivering holistic, person-centered care. Strengthening staffing, leadership support, resilience programs, and culturally responsive strategies is essential to enhance nurse well-being and improve the quality of elder care.

Simulation-Based Learning Satisfaction and Clinical Decision Making among Staff Nurses in Iloilo City

2026-04-09T11:40:06+00:00

Background: Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) is widely used in nursing education to enhance clinical competence, confidence, and decision-making skills in a safe and controlled environment. Despite its growing use, limited local studies have examined its relationship with clinical decision-making among staff nurses in Iloilo City.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between staff nurses’ satisfaction with Simulation-Based Learning and their clinical decision-making skills.

Study Design: Descriptive-correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: Two selected private hospitals in Iloilo City, Philippines, between January and February 2026.

Methodology: A total of 80 staff nurses were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected using adopted and validated questionnaires measuring SBL satisfaction and clinical decision-making domains (apprehension, time pressure, and professional autonomy). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test assessed normality. Spearman’s rho was used to determine the relationship between variables. Ethical clearance was secured prior to data collection.

Results: Findings revealed that staff nurses had a high level of satisfaction with Simulation-Based Learning. Clinical decision-making skills were generally moderate, with professional autonomy rated high, while apprehension and time pressure were moderate. Statistical analysis showed no significant relationship between SBL satisfaction and clinical decision-making skills.

Conclusion: Although staff nurses reported high satisfaction with SBL, it did not significantly influence their clinical decision-making skills. Enhanced simulation design, structured feedback, and continuous exposure are recommended to improve clinical competence.

Facility Availability and Clinical Practice in Nursing Education in a Private College in Iloilo

2026-04-09T12:52:14+00:00

The transition from theoretical nursing education in the classroom to actual clinical practice required not only knowledge but also competence, confidence, and adequate institutional support. The availability of learning facilities played a crucial role in strengthening students' clinical abilities and supporting the integration of theory into practice. The study aimed to determine the level of facility availability and clinical practice and examine the relationship between these variables among Bachelor of Science in Nursing students in a Private College in Iloilo City. A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized involving 305 Level 2 to Level 4 nursing students selected through stratified sampling. The data collected were collected using an adopted questionnaire measuring facility availability and a researcher-made instrument assessing clinical practice. Ethical clearance was secured prior to data collection to ensure voluntary participation, confidentiality, and protection of the respondents’ rights.

Findings revealed that Facility Availability was generally perceived as moderate to high, although certain areas such as classroom infrastructure required improvement. Clinical practice was likewise rated moderate to high, with motivation, confidence, and critical thinking identified as strong indicators, while exposure to varied clinical cases received lower ratings. A significant moderate positive relationship was found between facility availability and clinical practice, indicating that improved facilities were associated with better clinical outcomes. Strengthening institutional facilities can enhance students' clinical competence and support the overall quality of nursing education.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence Utilization on Study Habits among Nursing Students in a Private College

2026-04-10T06:26:02+00:00

Aims: This study aimed to analyze the effects of Artificial Intelligence utilization on the study habits of nursing students in a private college.

Study Design: A descriptive-correlational quantitative research design was employed.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private college in Iloilo City among nursing students enrolled during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: The study involved 325 nursing students from different year levels selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a validated survey instrument composed of three parts: demographic profile, Artificial Intelligence Utilization questionnaire, and Study Habits Inventory. The Artificial Intelligence Utilization instrument measured six domains: self-efficacy, technological readiness, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, and AI tools usage. Study habits were measured using a 20-item inventory assessing students’ learning behaviors and routines. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Inferential analysis was conducted using Spearman’s rho to determine the relationship between Artificial Intelligence utilization and study habits.

Results: Among 325 nursing students, AI utilization was generally positive (M = 3.70, SD = 0.57), with high self-efficacy (M = 3.68, SD = 0.66) and technological readiness (M = 3.90, SD = 0.62), and study habits were moderately strong (M = 2.70, SD = 0.60), highest in using digital tools (M = 3.34, SD = 0.86) and organizing materials (M = 3.21, SD = 0.89), but lowest in maintaining focus (M = 1.80, SD = 1.00). Data were non-normal (Kolmogorov–Smirnov, p < 0.05), and Spearman’s rho showed positive correlations between AI subdomains and study habits, with technological readiness highest (rs = .238, p = .000) and actual AI usage negligible (rs = .046, p = .405), indicating AI supports learning but habits depend more on personal motivation and self-discipline.

Conclusion: The assessment revealed that AI is widely used by nursing students as a complementary tool to enhance efficiency in academic tasks, supported by their positive attitudes, confidence, and readiness to use technology. Despite this, students maintained strong and disciplined study habits, suggesting that self-discipline, motivation, and self-regulation are more influential on academic engagement than AI. Although correlations between AI use and study habits were statistically significant, their strength indicates that AI has only a limited effect on students’ study practices.

Assessing Fourth-Year Nursing Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices toward Nutritional Management in Diabetes Mellitus

2026-04-11T07:34:31+00:00

Aims: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of fourth-year nursing students toward nutritional management in Diabetes Mellitus and to determine whether significant relationships exist among these variables.

Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional correlational research design was utilized to systematically examine the variables and their interrelationships at a single point in time.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private college institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, among fourth-year nursing students during the Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 222 respondents were selected from a population of 520 fourth-year nursing students using simple random sampling through the fishbowl method. Data were collected using an adapted, validated, and reliability-tested questionnaire consisting of four sections: demographic profile, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to nutritional management in Diabetes Mellitus. Knowledge was assessed using a dichotomous scale, while attitudes and practices were measured using Likert-scale items to capture varying degrees of perception and behavior. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, and mean) were used to determine levels of KAP, while Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient was employed to analyze the relationships among the variables.

Results: The findings revealed that respondents demonstrated an adequate level of knowledge regarding nutritional management in Diabetes Mellitus, with an overall mean knowledge score of 9.39 out of 12. Most students also showed positive attitudes toward nutritional management, with 70.27% categorized as having a positive attitude. In terms of practice, the majority (76.13%) demonstrated good practices, with an overall mean score of 3.36 out of 4. A significant relationship was found between knowledge and attitude (ρ = 0.153, p = 0.000) and between attitude and practices (ρ = 0.241, p = 0.000). However, no significant relationship was observed between knowledge and practices (ρ = 0.006, p = 0.934).

Conclusion: Fourth-year nursing students generally possess adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices regarding nutritional management in Diabetes Mellitus. The findings highlight that while knowledge contributes to shaping attitudes, attitude plays a more influential role in translating knowledge into clinical practice. Strengthening nursing education and clinical training in diabetes nutrition management may further enhance students’ preparedness to deliver effective patient care.

Gamification Engagement and Critical Thinking Skills among Student Nurses

2026-04-11T10:00:09+00:00

Aims: To determine the level of gamification engagement and critical thinking skills among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City. Specifically, it examined students’ behavioral, cognitive, and emotional engagement in gamified learning activities, and determined whether a significant relationship exists between gamification engagement and critical thinking skills.

Study Design: This study employed a descriptive–correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private college in Iloilo City among Bachelor of Science in Nursing students during the academic year 2025–2026. Data collection was conducted in January 2026.

Methodology: The study included 325 nursing students selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire comprising the Gamification Engagement Questionnaire and the Critical Thinking Skills Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation summarized respondents’ profiles, engagement, and critical thinking. Spearman’s rho correlation was used to determine the relationship between gamification engagement and critical thinking skills.

Results: The findings revealed that the majority of respondents frequently used Quizlet (80.9%) and Gizmo (49.5%). Student nurses demonstrated high overall gamification engagement (M = 2.82), with emotional engagement scoring the highest (M = 2.85) and behavioral engagement the lowest (M = 2.74). Critical thinking skills were predominantly at an average level (49.2%), with 48.3% demonstrating high levels and 2.5% low levels; among the domains, analyzing scored highest (M = 3.78) and creating lowest (M = 3.30). Correlation analysis showed no significant relationship between overall gamification engagement and critical thinking skills (rs = −0.07, P = 0.24), although weak positive associations were observed in analyzing, evaluating, remembering, and understanding domains.Thus, the overall null hypothesis is accepted, while it is rejected only for the specific domains where significant correlations were observed.

Conclusion: Nursing students demonstrated high engagement in gamified learning and satisfactory critical thinking skills. Despite weak positive correlations in some domains, no significant relationship was found between gamification engagement and critical thinking, suggesting that other instructional and learner-related factors may influence critical thinking development.

Motives for Caffeine Consumption and Study Skills Inventory among Student Nurses in a Private School

2026-04-11T11:52:01+00:00

Aims: This study aims to assess the relationship between the motives for caffeine consumption and the level of study skills among student nurses enrolled at a selected private college in Iloilo, Philippines.

Study Design: Descriptive-Correlational.

Place and Duration of Study: College of nursing of a private institution in Iloilo, Philippines, between 2025-2026.

Methodology: A total population of 2,081 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from first year to fourth year of the academic year 2025-2026 was considered, excluding 30 respondents used for pilot testing. The sample size of 325 students was determined through the Raosoft sample size calculator. Data were collected using Motives for Caffeine Consumption Questionnaire and Study Skills Inventory and were administered through online surveys. Ethical clearance was secured prior to data collection.

Results: Findings revealed that student nurses demonstrated moderate levels of caffeine consumption motives and generally satisfactory study skills. This suggests that respondents consume caffeine for various reasons while maintaining acceptable study habits. In terms of caffeine motives, the results indicated that student nurses commonly consumed caffeinated beverages as a means of enhancing alertness, coping with academic demands, and sustaining energy during study activities. Meanwhile, in terms of study skills, higher levels were observed in areas such as note-taking, memory, and concentration, whereas relatively lower levels were noted in textbook reading practices. The correlation analysis indicated a statistically significant relationship between caffeine consumption and study skills at the predetermined level of significance.

Conclusion: Caffeine consumption motives were found to be significantly associated with the study skills of student nurses, suggesting that caffeine use may serve as a coping mechanism in managing academic demands. Understanding these patterns may help improve students’ study behaviors and academic performance while promoting responsible caffeine consumption. However, further studies are recommended to validate these findings and explore additional factors influencing both caffeine intake and study skills.

Association between Screen Time and SCRAM (Sleep, Circadian Rhythm, and Mood) among Student Nurses: A Descriptive Correlational Study

2026-04-13T05:13:35+00:00

Aims: This study aimed to determine the correlation between screen time duration and SCRAM (sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood) among student nurses in a private college institution during the Academic Year 2025–2026, second semester. Specifically, it sought to assess the extent of screen time in terms of weekday, weeknight, and weekend day, evaluate the level of sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood (SCRAM) in terms of good sleep, morningness, and depressed mood, and determine if a significant relationship exists between screen time and SCRAM.

Study Design: This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private college institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, among nursing students. Data collection was carried out from January 15 to February 3, 2026, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: The study included 325 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from first to fourth year, selected using stratified random sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were gathered using two adopted instruments: the Screen Time Questionnaire and the SCRAM Questionnaire (Byrne et al., 2017). The Screen Time Questionnaire measured the duration of screen exposure across weekday, weeknight, and weekend, including background use. The SCRAM questionnaire assessed sleep quality, circadian rhythm (morningness), and mood (depressed mood) using a 6-point Likert scale.

Data collection was conducted through online (Google Forms) after obtaining ethical clearance and institutional approval. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used, while Spearman’s rho was applied to determine the relationship between screen time and SCRAM variables due to non-normal data distribution

Results: The study involved 325 respondents. The overall mean daily screen time was 144.29 minutes, equivalent to approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Screen time was highest during weekends (M = 165.69), followed by weekdays (M = 157.27) and lowest during weeknights (M = 110.02). Smartphones had the highest usage across all periods. For SCRAM, the overall mean score was 3.2, indicating a slight negative tendency in sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood. Subscale means were: Good Sleep (M = 3.43), Morningness (M = 3.49), and Depressed Mood (M = 2.89), suggesting inconsistent sleep patterns, irregular circadian rhythm, and mild mood disturbances. Inferential analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed weak to very weak correlations between screen time and SCRAM variables. Some relationships were statistically significant (p < 0.05), indicating that increased screen time is associated with less favorable sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood outcomes. Specifically, a weak correlation suggests that although a relation exists between the variables, the association is relatively small (P = .01), indicating that changes in the screen time have only a minor effect on variations in circadian rhythm, mood outcomes, and sleep quality among the respondents.

Conclusion: The study concludes that screen time is significantly associated with sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood (SCRAM) among student nurses, although the relationship is generally weak. Increased screen time, particularly during leisure periods such as weekends, may contribute to disruptions in sleep patterns, misalignment of circadian rhythm, and mood fluctuations. However, screen time alone does not fully explain SCRAM outcomes, and the timing of exposure plays an important role. These findings indicate the practical need for intervention that focuses on managing screen time, especially on weekends and before bedtime, along with incorporating sleep hygiene education for nursing students to support their overall well being. Further studies are recommended to validate these findings and explore additional contributing factors, such as academic workload, lifestyle habits, caffeine intake, and environmental influences that may also influence sleep, circadian rhythm, and mood.

Academic and Clinical Interest: Influence to Intent-to-Work with Elderly People among Student Nurses in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-14T12:25:09+00:00

The increasing population of elderly people highlights the need for nurses prepared to work in gerontological settings. However, the shortage of geriatric nurses continues to affect healthcare systems. This study aimed to determine how academic interest and clinical experiences influence student nurses’ intention to work with elderly people. A descriptive-correlational design was used involving 275 Level 3 and Level 4 student nurses. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire measuring academic interest, clinical experience, and intent to work with older adults. Results showed that students had moderate academic interest and positive clinical experiences in gerontological nursing. Despite strong academic and clinical exposure, their intention to specialise in gerontological nursing remained moderate, indicating a gap between exposure and career commitment. Nursing programs should strengthen strategies that encourage students to work with elderly populations. Educators should enhance teaching approaches, while healthcare institutions should provide quality clinical training and support. Future studies may include students from different institutions to further explore factors influencing career intention.

Assessment of Disaster Response Mechanisms to Hydrometeorological Hazards: Evidence from Municipal Responders in the Rinconada Philippines

2026-04-15T05:55:45+00:00

This study examined the disaster response mechanisms of Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) responders in Balatan, Camarines Sur in relation to hydrometeorological hazards and the barriers that constrain their effectiveness. A quantitative descriptive design was employed, involving all 201 MDRRMO, Barangay Health Emergency Response Team (BHERT), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel who answered a validated structured questionnaire. Data were treated using descriptive statistics such as weighted mean to describe respondents’ profiles, assess response mechanisms across eight dimensions. Results showed that most of the people who work in disaster response in Balatan are in their prime working years, between the ages of 31 and 40. The demographic profile of this target group mostly comprises of the males who are married and have a monthly income less than Php 30,000. Their levels of education are between vocational training and college education. Participation in disaster management training is low among all groups. This shows that access to opportunities for skill development is unequal. However, only a small proportion had formal ICS training, and the limited use of advanced technologies such as GIS and drones, alongside geographic isolation, inadequate early warning systems, and constrained budgets, created persistent operational gaps. Overall, the analysis and discussion underscore that while MDRRMO responders show strong commitment and basic capability, systematic investments in specialized training, early warning and drainage infrastructure, technology integration, and sustained community engagement are essential to build a more resilient municipal disaster response system in Balatan.

Knowledge and Self-medication Practices of Oral Analgesic Use among Household Heads in a Selected Barangay, Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-04-15T06:22:52+00:00

Self-medication with oral analgesics is a common practice among household heads, which may pose health risks due to insufficient knowledge and unsafe medication behaviors. This study aimed to examine the level of knowledge and self-medication practices regarding oral analgesics and the relationship between these variables among 211 household heads in a selected barangay in Iloilo City during the academic year 2025–2026. A descriptive-correlational design was employed, and data were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge of oral analgesics, and self-medication practices. Findings revealed that respondents had a moderate level of knowledge (overall score 74.1%) and a moderate level of self-medication practices (mean score 3.31), with most reporting appropriate behaviors such as reading medication labels (91.0%) and consulting health professionals (93.4%), although misconceptions regarding drug classification, contraindications, and alcohol interactions were noted. Correlation analysis showed a weak but statistically significant relationship between knowledge and self-medication practices (rho = 0.162, p = 0.019), suggesting that knowledge partially influences medication behavior. The results indicate that while household heads generally exercise caution in self-medication, gaps in knowledge remain that may contribute to unsafe practices. Strengthening community-based health education programs is recommended to promote rational drug use, improve pharmacological knowledge, and ensure safer self-medication practices among households.

Assessment of Student Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on Antimicrobial Resistance

2026-04-16T06:54:36+00:00

Aims: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of student nurses regarding antimicrobial resistance and determine the relationships among these variables.

Study Design: Descriptive–correlational research design with a cross-sectional approach.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private nursing college in Iloilo City during the School Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 305 second-, third-, and fourth-year nursing students were selected using stratified random sampling to ensure proportional representation. Data were gathered through an adopted, validated, and reliable questionnaire composed of four parts: demographic profile, knowledge, attitudes, and practices on antimicrobial resistance. A pilot test was conducted to establish reliability using Cronbach’s alpha. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices scores were categorized as poor, moderate, or good based on predefined percentage ranges to ensure clear interpretation of results. Ethical approval and informed consent were secured prior to data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test assessed normality. Since the data were not normally distributed, Spearman’s rho was used to determine relationships among variables at a 0.05 level of significance.

Results: Out of 305 respondents, the majority were female (77.4%) and fourth-year students (35.4%). Student nurses demonstrated generally good knowledge (mean score was 12.6 out of 16), with 96.67% correctly identifying antibiotics and 96.07% recognizing that improper self-medication contributes to antimicrobial resistance. The overall mean attitude score was 3.88 (SD = 0.85), reflecting positive attitudes, while the overall mean practice score was 3.85 (SD = 1.21), indicating generally appropriate practices. Spearman’s rho analysis revealed a weak but significant relationship between knowledge and attitudes (r_s = 0.125, p = 0.029) and between knowledge and practices (r_s = 0.271, p < 0.001). A moderate positive relationship was found between attitudes and practices (r_s = 0.394, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The study concludes that student nurses demonstrate good knowledge and positive attitudes toward antimicrobial resistance; however, gaps remain in translating knowledge into consistent practices. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship, nursing education, and clinical training is recommended to promote responsible antibiotic use.

Perinatal Outcomes and Determinants among Hypertensive Pregnant Women in Hyderabad: A Retrospective Analysis

2026-04-16T13:32:50+00:00

Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) remain a global leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity. In India, hospital-based studies show variations in incidence between 5% and 15%. This study sought to determine specific fetal outcomes and identify modifiable risk factors in the Hyderabad region.

Objective: The present study determines perinatal outcomes and identify associated risk factors among hypertensive pregnant women in Hyderabad.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was conducted among 1350 hypertensive postnatal mothers selected through purposive sampling from Modern Government Maternity Hospital, Hyderabad and Gandhi Hospital, Secunderabad. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview schedule and case record review. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.

Results: Among the 1350 hypertensive pregnant women studied, 590 (43.7%) experienced adverse perinatal outcomes. Analysis further revealed that adverse outcomes rarely occurred in isolation; instead, most neonates presented with multiple overlapping complications, indicating cumulative fetal compromise associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Significant associated risk factors included lack of prior knowledge regarding hypertension, previous history of hypertension, bad obstetric history, family history of hypertension, irregular antenatal follow-up, excessive salt intake, consumption of processed foods, lack of exercise, and high stress levels.

Conclusion: Effective antenatal care, lifestyle modification, and improved awareness can significantly reduce adverse perinatal outcomes among hypertensive pregnant women.

Awareness, Knowledge, and Perception of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination among Healthcare Workers in Selected Primary Health Centres in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

2026-04-17T09:08:29+00:00

Introduction: Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria, despite the availability of effective prevention through human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination. This study assessed awareness, knowledge, perception, and acceptability of HPV vaccination among primary healthcare workers (PHCWs) in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with 79 PHCWs selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a validated self-administered questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at p < 0.05.

Results: Findings revealed universal awareness (100%) of HPV vaccination and high overall awareness levels (82%). Most respondents correctly identified the recommended vaccination age (9–14 years) and its role in preventing cervical cancer. However, notable knowledge gaps were observed: 59.5% believed HPV affects only females, 53.2% considered vaccination inappropriate for sexually active individuals, and 98.7% incorrectly recommended pre-vaccination screening. While perception of vaccine effectiveness was overwhelmingly positive (100%), safety concerns persisted, with 58.2% expressing doubts about vaccine safety and 50.6% perceiving negative societal attitudes.

Acceptability was generally high, with all respondents supporting HPV vaccination, its inclusion in routine immunization, and willingness to recommend it. However, only 33.3% had personally received the vaccine. Years of professional experience were significantly associated with acceptability (χ² = 21.407, p = 0.006).

Conclusion: The study concludes that although PHCWs demonstrate high awareness and positive disposition toward HPV vaccination, critical knowledge gaps and safety concerns persist. Targeted training and risk communication strategies are essential to strengthen vaccine confidence and optimize uptake.

Experiences on Handling Healthcare Advice to Family Members among Graduating Nursing Students in a Private School

2026-04-17T11:29:54+00:00

Aims: To describe the challenges faced by graduating nursing students in a private school when providing healthcare advice to relatives. Specifically, it described the experiences of the graduating nursing students, challenges in balancing personal relationships with their emerging professional identities and strategies they employ to provide healthcare advice to their family members.

Study Design: A qualitative descriptive design was utilized.

Methods: Eight (8) participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and the final number was determined by data saturation. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews conducted face-to-face and online after securing approval from the institutional research ethics committee.

Results: Three major themes emerged: (1) Constructing the “Family Nurse” Identity through repeated interactions with relatives; (2) Emotional Weight of Caring as they experienced emotional pressure and mixed feelings but also gained confidence and a sense of responsibility; and (3) Accountability by applying classroom knowledge, verifying information with registered nurses, credible sources, and encouraging proper medical consultation. The findings suggest that professional identity formation, emotional engagement, and ethical responsibility are not confined to clinical environments but are also shaped through everyday family interactions.

Conclusion: The study concludes that providing healthcare advice to family members plays a significant role in shaping the professional identity of graduating nursing students. It is recommended that nursing schools strengthen programs on professional boundaries, emotional resilience, and responsible health communication to better prepare students in managing family expectations alongside their emerging professional roles.

The Clinical Learning Environment and Empathy among Student Nurses in a Private College

2026-04-17T12:56:03+00:00

This study aimed to determine the relationship between the clinical learning environment and empathy among student nurses in a private college. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, with data collected from January to February 2026. A total of 314 second-, third-, and fourth-year student nurses were selected using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure proportional representation across year levels. Data were collected using two standardized instruments: the Clinical Learning Environment Comparison Survey 3.0 (CLES 3.0) to assess students’ perceptions of their clinical learning environment, and the Jefferson Scale of Empathy – Health Professions Student Version (JSE-HPS) to measure empathy levels. “The JSE was used in this study with permission from Thomas Jefferson University.” To ensure content validity, both instruments were reviewed by experts in nursing education and research for relevance, clarity, and appropriateness within the local context. Minor modifications were made based on their recommendations. Reliability testing was conducted through a pilot study involving a subset of respondents who were not included in the final sample. The instruments demonstrated high internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.95 for the CLES 3.0 and 0.90 for the JSE-HPS, indicating excellent reliability. Ethical clearance was obtained to ensure the protection of participants’ rights, confidentiality, and welfare.

The findings indicated that student nurses generally perceived their clinical learning environment as supportive and reported high levels of empathy. Statistical analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed a significant positive relationship between the clinical learning environment and empathy, with a moderate strength of association. Key factors contributing to the development of empathy included effective supervision, meaningful patient interactions, and opportunities for individualized patient care.

The study concludes that the clinical learning environment plays a significant role in shaping both the technical competence and empathy of student nurses. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing clinical teaching practices and institutional strategies to foster not only professional skills but also compassionate, patient-centered care. The selected keywords were also refined to improve the indexing and discoverability of the article.

Patients’ Participation and Clinical Confidence among Nursing Students in a Private College in Iloilo

2026-04-18T07:14:23+00:00

Aims: To assess the level of patients’ participation and clinical confidence among nursing students in a private college in Iloilo and to determine whether a significant relationship exists between these two variables.

Study Design: Descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private college institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, among second-year, third-year, and fourth-year nursing students during the Academic Year 2025–2026, between September 2025 and February 2026.

Methodology: The study included 305 nursing students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a three-part instrumentation process: a demographic profile, a 15-item researcher-made Patients Participation Scale, and a 12-item adapted Clinical Confidence Scale. Descriptive statistics, including the mean and standard deviation, were used to analyze levels of participation and confidence, while the Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient was utilized to determine the relationship between variables due to the non-normal distribution of data.

Results: Findings indicated that respondents perceived a high level of patient participation, with an overall mean of 3.28 out of 4.0. Students felt most competent when patient participation occurred during care (mean=3.53), while shared decision-making was the lowest-rated indicator (mean=2.94). Overall clinical confidence was high (mean=10.61/12), with knowledge-based confidence (mean=5.22/6) and clinical area confidence (mean=5.39/6) both reflecting positive levels. Confidence in demonstrating clinical judgment was identified as the lowest individual indicator (mean=0.74). A significant positive correlation was established between patients' participation and clinical confidence (r_s = .234, p= .000), confirming that as patient involvement increases, student confidence also rises.

Conclusion: Active patient involvement is a vital element in the development of student nurses' clinical confidence, as meaningful interactions provide mastery experiences that enhance self-efficacy. The study recommends the integration of patient-centered teaching strategies, such as simulations and enhanced pre-clinical orientations, alongside well-supervised clinical exposures to promote professional competence and growth.

Screen Time and Attention Span among Children in a Private School in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-04-18T11:01:43+00:00

This descriptive-correlational study aimed to determine the relationship between screen time and attention span among children aged 12 years and below in a private school in Iloilo City. The study was conducted during the Academic Year 2025–2026 and involved 50 primary caregivers selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed children’s screen time exposure and attention span based on caregiver-reported measures. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while Spearman’s rho was applied to determine the relationship between variables. Findings revealed that children had an average screen time of 72.7 ± 46.4 minutes, with 54.0% exceeding recommended daily limits. Most children were exposed to screens at an early age, primarily through smartphones, with higher usage observed during weekends. The overall attention span score (0.95 ± 0.40) indicated a generally low risk of inattention; however, some children demonstrated difficulties in sustaining focus and completing tasks. Statistical analysis showed a significant moderate positive correlation between screen time and attention span (r = 0.328, p = 0.020), indicating that increased screen exposure is associated with greater attention-related difficulties. Despite these findings, limitations such as the small sample size and reliance on caregiver-reported data may affect the generalizability and objectivity of the results. The study highlights the importance of regulating children’s screen time and promoting balanced developmental activities. Future research involving larger and more diverse populations, as well as objective measurement tools, is recommended.

Academic Engagement among Nursing Students: The Role of Environmental Factors

2026-04-20T07:14:04+00:00

Creating an effective home learning environment requires adequate space, ventilation, lighting, and thermal comfort. Minimizing distractions supports concentration, well-being, and academic productivity. Despite existing research on environmental conditions and student performance, limited studies have specifically examined the relationship between indoor environmental factors and academic engagement among Filipino nursing students. This study therefore aims to determine the influence of selected indoor environmental factors—including noise, lighting, temperature, study space, and technological distractions—on the academic engagement of nursing students in the Philippine context. This study examined indoor environmental factors as determinants of nursing students’ academic engagement. Conditions such as noise, lighting, temperature, study space, and technological distractions influence cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning. This study used a quantitative descriptive-correlational design to examine how environmental factors—noise, lighting, temperature, study space, crowding, and technological distractions—affect the academic engagement of second-year BSN students at a private college during the Academic Year 2025–2026. A total of 220 respondents were selected from 513 students via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured Google Forms questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Technological distractions (M = 3.80, High) were commonly experienced, mainly from mobile phones. Noise (M = 3.78, High) received the lowest mean; while conditions were generally acceptable, some students reported difficulty controlling noise. Overall, environmental factors were rated high, though variations in noise, study space, and digital distractions may still affect learning experiences. A moderate, statistically significant positive relationship was found between environmental factors and academic engagement (rs = 0.380, p < 0.001), indicating that more favorable environments were associated with higher engagement. The null hypothesis was rejected, confirming environmental factors significantly relate to nursing students’ academic engagement. Nursing students demonstrated high academic engagement, particularly in the cognitive and affective dimensions, reflecting strong motivation and mental involvement.

Fear of Reporting and Sanction: Its Influence to Clinical Performance

2026-04-20T07:25:05+00:00

This study examined the relationship between fear of reporting clinical error and sanction and the perceived clinical performance of nursing students during clinical practice in a selected private college in Iloilo City for the academic year 2025–2026. A descriptive–correlational quantitative research design was employed, involving 305 second- to fourth-year nursing students selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire utilizing a five-point Likert scale and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient following a normality test. Ethical clearance and informed consent were secured prior to data collection. Findings revealed that students exhibited low levels of fear of reporting (M = 2.17) and moderate levels of fear of sanctions (M = 2.59), while perceived clinical performance was generally high (M = 3.96), indicating favorable self-assessed competence. Emotional responses such as guilt and concern about negative reactions from instructors and peers were notable contributors to fear; however, most students remained willing to report errors rather than conceal them, reflecting a generally responsible attitude toward patient safety in this context overall. A significant inverse relationship (rs = -0.272, p < 0.001) was found between fear and perceived clinical performance, indicating that increased fear is associated with decreased perceived competence. Anchored on Self-Efficacy Theory, the findings suggest that fear related to sanctions and negative evaluation may undermine students’ confidence and clinical performance.The study is limited to a single institution, selected year levels, self-reported data, two dimensions of fear, and perceived rather than actual clinical performance.

Exploring the Motivators of Nursing Students Completion in a Private School in Iloilo, Philippines

2026-04-20T09:08:56+00:00

Student attrition in nursing education remains a continuing concern, particularly in private institutions where students face academic, personal, and socioeconomic challenges. Understanding the factors that influence nursing students’ intention to complete their program is essential in strengthening retention efforts and ensuring workforce sustainability. Guided by Social Cognitive Theory, this study aimed to determine how selected motivators, including passion, socioeconomic status, family influence, and Nursing Aptitude Test (NAT) results, influence first-year nursing students’ intention to complete the nursing course in a private school in Iloilo. A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized. Ethical clearance was sought prior to data collection. Data were gathered from 237 first-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students using a validated researcher-made questionnaire composed of Likert-scale items measuring passion, family influence, and intention to complete the program. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests were employed to analyze the data. Results revealed high levels of passion, strong family influence, and a high intention to complete the nursing program. Sex, NAT scores, and monthly family income were not significantly related to intention to complete. In contrast, passion and family influence demonstrated significant positive relationships with students’ intention to finish the course. These findings highlight the importance of intrinsic motivation and supportive family environments in sustaining academic persistence. Strengthening initiatives that cultivate professional passion and promote family engagement may enhance retention and program completion among nursing students.

Factors Influencing Health-seeking Behavior of Public Utility Vehicle Drivers in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-04-20T11:29:03+00:00

Aims: To examine the health-seeking behavior of Public Utility Vehicle Drivers and to investigate the factors determining health-seeking behavior.

Study design: This study employed a descriptive-correlational quantitative research design.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Barangay Cuartero, Jaro, Iloilo City, Philippines, from August 2025 to February 2026.

Methodology: The study included 112 drivers in total (81 tricycle and 31 pedicab drivers) aged ≥18 years through purposive total enumeration sampling. Data collection involved a six-part questionnaire incorporating four researcher-made questionnaires, and adopted tools such as the BARSHSS-CV and the Health-Seeking Behavior Scale (Kirac & Ozturk, 2021). Data was encoded in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using Jamovi (Version 2.6).

Results: Age showed a weak negative association with health-seeking behavior (rₛ = −.19, P = .04). Smoking exposure also showed a significant difference in health-seeking behavior (U = 972, P = .018), with higher levels of health-seeking among non-exposed drivers (M = 2.92, SD = 0.62). An inverse relationship between health-seeking behavior and YAKAP awareness (t = −2.54, P = .012) was also found. Furthermore, respiratory health problems were significantly negatively correlated (r = −.221, P = .019) with health-seeking behavior, while accessibility of healthcare services showed a significant positive association (r = .229, P = .015).

Conclusion: Age, smoking exposure, YAKAP awareness, extent of respiratory health problems, and perceived accessibility to healthcare services were significantly associated with health-seeking behavior. These findings highlight the need for targeted occupational health interventions and improved health program awareness among PUV drivers to enhance timely healthcare utilization.

Healthcare Workers’ Perceptions of Administrative Factors and PHC Implementation in Calabar, Nigeria

2026-04-20T11:39:33+00:00

Background: Primary Health Care (PHC) is the mainstay of healthcare delivery in many developing nations. Since the global recognition of PHC with the Alma-Ata Declaration, Nigeria has adopted PHC as a strategy for improving access to essential healthcare services. The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is responsible for coordinating PHC services across the nation. However, the implementation of PHC has been a challenge due to various administrative factors such as leadership, allocation of resources, communication, supervision, and motivation.

Aim: This study sought to determine the perception of healthcare workers on administrative indices and their impact on the effective implementation of PHC services in the Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. The participants for the study were healthcare workers from various PHC facilities within the Calabar Education Zone of Cross River State. The participants included Community Health Extension Workers, nurses, midwives, medical officers, and healthcare administrators. A total of 226 participants were recruited for the study from a population of 520 healthcare workers using a multistage sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Out of 226 questionnaires distributed, 214 were returned (94.7% response rate). Leadership effectiveness (mean = 3.41) and communication systems (mean = 3.12) were rated moderately effective. Supervision practices recorded a mean score of 3.05, indicating irregular monitoring. Resource availability (mean = 2.68) and staff motivation (mean = 2.71) were perceived as inadequate by many respondents, highlighting key administrative constraints affecting PHC service delivery.

Conclusion and Recommendations: The study concluded that administrative indicators play an important role in the effective implementation of PHC. The study recommends that resources should be allocated effectively and supervision mechanisms should be strengthened. Training for PHC administrators and health workers should be provided to motivate them.

Social Media Usage and Appearance-related Consciousness among Nursing Students

2026-04-20T11:46:53+00:00

This study aimed to determine the relationship between social media usage and appearance-related consciousness among student nurses in Iloilo Doctors’ College. A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized with data collected from January to February 2026. A total of 325 first-, second-, third-, and fourth year student nurses were selected using stratified random sampling technique to ensure proportional distribution across year levels. Data were collected using two standardized instruments: the Social Media Usage Scale (SMUS) to assess how frequently student nurses engage in social media platforms, and the Appearance-Related Social Media Consciousness Scale (ASMC) to assess how often they think about, worry about, or pay attention to their physical appearance on social media. To ensure content validity, both instruments were reviewed by experts in the nursing education and research department for relevance, clarity and appropriateness within the local context. The Reliability testing was conducted through a pilot study involving those respondents who were not included in the final data gathering. The instruments demonstrated high internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.91 (SMUS) and 0.97 (ASMC) indicating excellent reliability. Ethical clearance was obtained to ensure the protection of participants’ rights, safety, and confidentiality.

The findings indicated that student nurses had a moderate level of engagement reflecting regular use of social media but not excessively in different activities depending on what kind of purpose and interaction. Statistical analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed a significant strong positive relationship between social media usage and appearance-related consciousness. Key factors contributing to the development of social media usage included watching videos, memes, contents, looking at others stories and scrolling aimlessly that lead to greater awareness and concern about physical appearance. The study concluded that social media plays a significant role among student nurses as a platform for learning, communication, self-expression and entertainment, while also shaping their perceptions and behavior. This study highlights how to encourage student nurses to develop more reflective, mindful and value-oriented participation when using social media platforms and also practice in self-awareness, limiting exposure to unrealistic beauty standards, and seeking supportive and credible content may help reduce negative psychological effects such as anxiety, body dissatisfaction and low self-esteem. Expanding research in this area will contribute to the development of evidenced-based strategies that support nursing students’ mental health, professional growth and holistic well-being in the digital age.

Digitalization and Learning Effectiveness of Student Nurses in a Private Institution in Iloilo, Philippines

2026-04-21T08:24:38+00:00

Digitalization has become widely integrated into nursing education; however, its extent and impact on learning effectiveness in private institutions in Western Visayas remain unexplored. This study aimed to determine the level of digitalization and learning effectiveness of student nurses in a private institution in Iloilo and to examine the relationship between these variables. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, involving 157 first-year and 130 second-year nursing students selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire, and ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection. The findings revealed that students demonstrated high engagement with digital tools, with adaptive quizzing being the most frequently used for knowledge assessment and immediate feedback. Educational applications were utilized less consistently; however, they showed a stronger relationship with learning effectiveness. This suggests that while adaptive quizzing supports routine learning activities, educational applications may provide more comprehensive and interactive learning experiences that contribute more substantially to improved comprehension and critical thinking. Overall, a statistically significant moderate positive relationship was found between digitalization and learning effectiveness, indicating that increased engagement with digital tools is associated with better learning outcomes. The study concludes that digitalization plays a crucial role in enhancing learning among nursing students. It is therefore recommended that institutions strengthen the integration of digital learning tools to maximize the benefits of educational technologies.

Role of Debriefing on Traumatic Clinical Experience and Anxiety among Student Nurses: A Mixed Method Study

2026-04-21T10:12:04+00:00

Background: Student nurses in the Philippines frequently encounter traumatic clinical experiences during Related Learning Experience (RLE) rotations, yet formal debriefing protocols and mental health support systems remain limited, reinforcing stigma and unprocessed psychological distress.

Aim: This study sought to explore the role of debriefing on traumatic clinical experience and mental health outcomes of student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City.

Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected using adopted and researcher-made questionnaires from two hundred seventy-five (275) participants selected using the Raosoft sample size calculator, while qualitative data were gathered through the use of an in-depth interview with seven (7) participants through purposive sampling. Ethical clearance was secured prior to data collection to ensure participant protection and research integrity.

Results: The findings revealed that nursing students view debriefing as a valuable instructional and emotional support strategy that helped lessen feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Statistical analysis indicated that informal debriefing was not significantly associated with reduced anxiety scores. Qualitatively, students described debriefing as a safe space for emotional expression, although these sessions were often described as unstructured and focused more on clinical correction than emotional support.

Conclusion: It is concluded that traumatic clinical experiences are common among student nurses and have a considerable psychological impact. Although informal debriefing was perceived as beneficial, it may be insufficient to effectively reduce measurable anxiety. These findings highlight the need for structured debriefing and reflective practice to better support the students’ emotional resilience and coping. Clinical instructors are encouraged to prioritize establishing a psychologically safe learning environment where students can openly process distressing experiences. Future studies should use longitudinal and multi-site designs to examine the long-term effects of structured debriefing on anxiety.

Clinical Area Complexity, Facilitators’ Collaboration Attitude, and Clinical Competence among Nursing Students in a Private College

2026-04-23T08:01:40+00:00

Nursing students often demonstrate strong academic performance yet struggle to apply the same level of competence in actual clinical settings. This gap highlights the need to examine factors that influence clinical competence during training. This study aimed to determine the relationship between clinical area complexity and facilitators’ collaboration attitu de toward the level of clinical competence among nursing students in a private college. Specifically, it examined whether facilitators’ collaboration attitude mediated the relationship between clinical area complexity and students’ perceived clinical competence. The study included a total of 223 respondents, all of whom were second-year nursing students from a private college of nursing in Iloilo City. A descriptive–correlational research design with mediating analysis was utilised. Ethical clearance was secured prior to data collection. Data were gathered from second-year nursing students using researcher-made and standardized questionnaires administered through an online platform.Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used to describe the variables, while Spearman’s Rho and linear regression analysis were employed to determine relationships and mediation effects. Results indicated that students perceived the clinical practice area to have a moderate level of complexity, with patient interaction and time pressure identified as the most influential factors. Facilitators’ collaboration attitude was rated high, reflecting a supportive and cooperative learning environment. Students also reported a high level of perceived clinical competence. Findings revealed no significant relationship between clinical area complexity and students’ perceived clinical competence. However, facilitators’ collaboration attitude showed a significant positive relationship with clinical competence and fully mediated the relationship between clinical area complexity and clinical competence. These findings emphasize the importance of facilitator support in strengthening nursing students’ competence in complex clinical environments.

Nursing Students’ Intent to Learn Sign Language in Iloilo City

2026-04-23T09:26:17+00:00

Aims: The study aimed to assess the perceptions and intent of nursing students in a private institution in Iloilo toward learning sign language and to identify factors that influence their willingness to learn. The results served as a basis for recommending the integration of sign language into the nursing curriculum in order to provide a more equitable healthcare to patients.

Study Design: A descriptive-correlational research design was used to determine the relationship between perceived interest, perceived importance, perceived barriers, and the intent of students in learning sign language.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private school in Iloilo City during the first and second semesters in the academic year 2025-2026.

Methodology: We included 325 nursing students from 1st to 4th year, enrolled in the academic year 2025–2026, using stratified random sampling, where 96 were first year, 68 were second year, 80 were third year, and 81 were fourth year nursing students. Data were collected through two adopted questionnaires, “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Deaf Patients Among Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia” (Alamro et al., 2023) and “Nursing and Midwifery Students’ Perceptions of Sign Language Training in Ghana: Relevance, Instructional Methods, and Assessment Practices” (Opoku et al., 2025), along with a researcher-made questionnaire, which measured perceived interest, perceived importance, perceived communication-related barriers, and intent to learn sign language. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s Rank-Order Correlation Analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results: Findings revealed that nursing students demonstrated a high level of intent to learn sign language (M = 3.96). They also showed a high level of perceived interest (M = 4.10) and perceived importance (M = 4.24), while communication-related barriers were rated as average (M = 3.24). Spearman’s Rank-Order Correlation analysis showed that perceived interest (rs = 0.631, p < .001) and perceived importance (rs = 0.631, p < .001) had a strong and significant relationship with students’ intent to learn sign language. This indicates that higher interest and recognition of importance increase students’ willingness to learn. In contrast, communication-related barriers showed no significant relationship with intent (rs = 0.000, p = 0.997), suggesting that perceived difficulties do not affect students’ motivation. Overall, students’ intent to learn sign language is mainly influenced by their interest and perceived importance, rather than by perceived barriers.

Conclusion: Nursing students recognize the value of sign language in clinical practice and possess a strong desire to acquire these skills. Since interest and perceived importance are primary drivers of their motivation, academic institutions should leverage this positive attitude by integrating sign language training into the nursing curriculum to enhance inclusive patient care.

Occupational and Health Safety Measures among Workers in Palm Oil Mills at Omoba, Isiala-ngwa South L.G.A., Abia State, Nigeria

2026-04-23T09:41:21+00:00

Background: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) is a significant concern in agro-processing industries in developing countries, as poor safety practices are prevalent in these industries. The health and safety of palm oil mill workers are threatened by unsafe machines and poor safety practices.

Aim: This study was conducted to assess the OHS practices and implementation among palm oil mill workers in Omoba, Abia State, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted, and data were collected from 247 workers in 49 palm oil mills using structured questionnaires and checklists. The total population sampling method was used, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of the workers were males (73.3%), and the level of awareness regarding occupational hazards was moderate (69.2%). However, the consistent use of PPE was found to be very low (39.7%) due to discomfort and lack of availability. The level of OHS was found to be very poor or fair, with 45.3% of the workers having experienced work-related injuries such as cuts and burns. From the observations made, the safety infrastructure was found to be very poor, with major gaps such as the absence of guards on the machines and a lack of emergency stop mechanisms. No significant relationship was found between the demographic variables and the level of awareness and practice regarding OHS (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The high injury rate can be attributed to the lack of safety infrastructure, the lack of safety enforcement, and the lack of safety training. Therefore, the way forward is to improve the safety infrastructure by investing in safety measures, such as the provision of PPE and improving the safety training of the workers.

Academic Challenges and Coping Strategies of Clinical Instructors in the Nursing School in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

2026-04-23T09:48:55+00:00

Aim: This study aimed to determine the academic challenges encountered by clinical instructors in nursing schools and the coping mechanisms they employ, as well as examine the relationship between their profile, perceived challenges, and coping strategies.

Methodology: A descriptive-correlational research design was utilized. A total of 80 clinical instructors were selected through simple random sampling from nursing institutions in Central Luzon, Philippines. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire with established reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.89; overall reliability = 0.82). Descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, and weighted mean, were used to summarize the data, while Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (ρ) was employed to determine relationships among variables at a 0.05 level of significance.

Results: Findings revealed that respondents were predominantly mid-career professionals with advanced educational qualifications and large teaching loads. Perceived academic challenges were generally low (overall means: workload = 2.46; resources = 1.31; professional development = 1.31), with moderate concerns noted in time management. In contrast, coping mechanisms were rated very high (overall means: workload = 3.67; resources = 3.93; professional development = 3.96). No statistically significant relationships were found between respondents’ profile variables and their perceived challenges or coping mechanisms (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: Clinical instructors demonstrate strong adaptability and effective coping strategies despite moderate workload demands. Institutional support systems and professional development opportunities play a key role in maintaining low perceived challenges and high teaching effectiveness.

Knowledge, Perception, and Attitude of Student Nurses on the Care of Clients Undergoing Chemotherapy

2026-04-24T06:28:00+00:00

Introduction: Cancer remains a major global health concern. Nurses are integral to the care of individuals with cancer. This study assessed student nurses' knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding the care of clients undergoing chemotherapy, categorized by year level, chemotherapy unit exposure, and cancer patient exposure, at a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methods: This study employed a descriptive correlational design and surveyed 275 of 960 student nurses. Stratified random sampling across levels 3 and 4 ensured representative participation. Data collection utilized a researcher-developed knowledge questionnaire and two validated instruments for attitude and perception. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) summarized the data. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test assessed normality, and Spearman’s rho evaluated correlations at α = 0.05 due to non-normal data distribution.

Results: Student nurses exhibited a high level of knowledge (M = 6.68), an average level of perception (M = 2.73), and an average level of attitude (M = 2.29). Statistical analysis indicated a significant, but very weak, positive correlation between knowledge and attitude (p = 0.429), and a significant, moderate, positive correlation between perception and attitude (p < 0.001).

Discussion: Although student nurses demonstrate strong theoretical knowledge of chemotherapy care, their perceptions and attitudes remain average. This finding highlights the need for increased clinical exposure and support to improve readiness for oncology nursing practice.

Conclusion: The findings indicate that, despite adequate knowledge, student nurses continue to experience significant hesitations in chemotherapy care. The lack of significant differences across key variables highlights a persistent readiness gap. Perception demonstrates a significant moderate relationship with attitude, emphasizing the importance of their interplay. Guided by the Health Belief Model, these results underscore the necessity of robust educational strategies and direct clinical exposure to foster the confident attitudes required for safe and effective chemotherapy care.

Recommendations: Efforts should focus on enhancing knowledge, confidence, and emotional preparedness among student nurses in chemotherapy care. Nursing educators are encouraged to strengthen oncology training by improving curriculum integration and increasing clinical exposure. Future research should employ larger samples, include additional variables, and incorporate qualitative methodologies.

Determinants of the Exercise of Patients’ Healthcare Rights among Outpatients in the Upper East Region of Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study

2026-04-24T07:10:05+00:00

Background: Patients’ rights are fundamental to quality healthcare; yet, there is limited evidence on the factors influencing their exercise in Ghana. Understanding these determinants is critical to improving patient-centered care and promoting accountability in health service delivery. This study examined the extent and determinants of patients’ exercise of healthcare rights among outpatients in the Upper East Region.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 230 outpatients aged 18–59 years who were recruited through an online survey using a non-probability convenience sampling strategy. Data was collected using structured questionnaires covering demographics, awareness, information sources, hospital experiences, and challenges in exercising rights. Descriptive statistics summarized respondent characteristics and rights exercise, while chi-square tests assessed associations between independent variables and the exercise of rights.

Results: Of the 230 respondents, 64.8% reported having ever exercised their rights, with the right to informed consent (30%) and confidentiality (21.7%) being the most commonly exercised. Significant determinants of exercising rights included educational level (p = 0.045), health insurance coverage (p = 0.015), awareness of rights (p = 0.001), sources of information (p = 0.001), trust in sources (p = 0.016), formal training (p = 0.001), and prior experience of challenges (p = 0.001). Major barriers included lack of knowledge (21.7%), fear of repercussions (17%), and ignorance or disregard by staff (35.6%). Respondents emphasized enhancing public education and improving patient–staff relations as key strategies to promote the exercise of rights.

Conclusion: The exercise of patients’ rights in the Upper East Region is influenced by both individual and systemic factors. Interventions targeting awareness, staff training, and supportive hospital systems are essential to empower patients and strengthen healthcare delivery.

Transformational Leadership and Job Satisfaction Relationship: A Case Study of Nurses in Teaching Hospitals, Ogun State, Nigeria

2026-04-24T11:41:14+00:00

Aims: The nursing workforce in Nigeria faces a crisis of job dissatisfaction and turnover, underscoring the need to identify effective management strategies. Transformational leadership (TFL) is a key factor in enhancing nurse job satisfaction. This paper aims to investigate the correlation between transformational leadership and job satisfaction among nurses in teaching hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria.

Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, collecting data from 250 nurses via a structured questionnaire. The instrument included the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and a job satisfaction scale. Reliability testing yielded Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.92 for the MLQ and 0.89 for the job satisfaction scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, ANOVA, and multiple regression.

Results: Nurses perceived a moderately high level of transformational leadership and reported a moderate level of job satisfaction. A powerful, positive correlation was found between transformational leadership and job satisfaction. Intellectual stimulation was identified as the strongest unique predictor of job satisfaction. Nurses with two to five years of experience reported significantly lower satisfaction than their more experienced colleagues

Conclusion: Transformational leadership, particularly through intellectual stimulation and individualized support, is a critical determinant of nurse job satisfaction. Hospital management should invest in leadership development programs that focus on these dimensions to improve retention, particularly for early-career nurses.

Knowledge and Attitude of Third-Year and Fourth-Year Nursing Students toward Caring for Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease

2026-04-24T13:29:25+00:00

Background: Alzheimer’s disease poses significant challenges to patient care, requiring skilled and compassionate nursing support. Assessing the knowledge and attitudes of senior nursing students is essential to ensure preparedness for quality dementia care.

Aims: To determine the knowledge and attitude of third-year and fourth-year nursing students toward caring for patients with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Study Design: A quantitative descriptive-correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: Iloilo Doctors’ College, Iloilo City, Philippines, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025–2026, completed within three months.

Methodology: The study included 275 third-year and fourth-year nursing students selected from a total population of 960 using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires, specifically the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and the Dementia Attitude Scale (DAS). Ethical clearance was secured, and informed consent was obtained prior to data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, and mean) and inferential statistics, including the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test for normality and Spearman’s Rho to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between knowledge and attitude.

Results: Out of 275 respondents, 45.8% were third-year and 54.2% were fourth-year nursing students. The overall mean knowledge score was 18 out of 30, indicating a moderate level of knowledge, with 48% moderate, 32% low, and 20% high knowledge levels. The overall attitude mean score was 4.77 out of 7, reflecting a generally neutral attitude toward Alzheimer’s care. Statistical analysis revealed no significant relationship between overall knowledge and attitude (p = 0.864 > 0.05). However, some domains showed weak positive correlations, with correlation coefficients ranging from r_s= 0.131 to 0.208 (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The study concludes that strengthening Alzheimer’s Disease–focused education and clinical exposure may enhance both the knowledge and attitude of nursing students. These findings emphasize the need for curriculum improvement and focused training programs to better prepare future nurses to deliver quality and compassionate Alzheimer’s care.

Clinical Stress and Coping Strategies among Student Nurses in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-25T10:28:26+00:00

Aims: Nursing education involves a high-pressure transition from theoretical learning to clinical practice, which often impacts student well-being. This study aimed to determine the relationship between clinical stress and the coping strategies employed by nursing students at a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines. Specifically, it sought to assess the levels of clinical stress related to patient care and academic workload, identify the utilization levels of various coping strategies (self-concept, physiological, role function, and interdependence), and test the hypothesis that no significant relationship exists between these variables.

Study Design: the research utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research design combined with a survey methodology to objectively analyze existing phenomena without manipulating variables.

Place and duration of Study: the study was conducted at a private institution in west timawa, molo, iloilo city, during the second semester of the 2025-2026 academic year, specifically from january to february 2026.

Methodology: data were gathered from 306 second- to fourth-year nursing students selected through stratified random sampling. Standardized instruments were used, including the clinical learning environment questionnaire for stress (cronbach’s alpha = 0.75) and the perceived intrapersonal and interpersonal coping strategies questionnaire (cronbach’s alpha = 0.82). Statistical analysis included frequency and percentage, mean and standard deviation, and spearman’s rho (non-parametric) for correlational testing due to non-normal data distribution confirmed by shapiro-wilk.

Results: findings revealed that respondents experienced an average overall level of clinical stress (mean = 3.01), with "assignments and workloads" (mean = 3.53) being a higher stressor than "taking care of patients" (mean = 2.49). Conversely, students demonstrated a high overall level of coping strategies (mean = 3.68). Inferential analysis using spearman's rho showed that clinical stress, as a whole, did not significantly relate to overall coping strategies (p = 0.352), thus failing to reject the null hypothesis at the macro level. However, specific stressors showed distinct relationships: patient care stress had a weak positive relationship with role function, (p< 0.001), while assignment-related stress showed a negative relationship with self-concept.

Conclusion: nursing students generally experience manageable levels of stress but prioritize academic compliance (grades) over clinical immersion. The lack of a significant macro-level relationship suggests that students' coping is reactive rather than proactive, indicating a need to integrate consistent stress management and coping skills training into the nursing curriculum to enhance student well-being and educational outcomes.

Learning Resources and Outcomes among Student Nurses in a Private College of Nursing

2026-04-25T12:47:42+00:00

Introduction: Despite the growing emphasis on quality nursing education, limited local evidence exists on how learning resources influence student nurses’ outcomes in private nursing colleges. This study aimed to determine the level of utilization of learning resources and their relationship with the perceived level of learning outcomes among nursing students in a private college of nursing in Iloilo City.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive-correlational design was employed involving 305 out of 1,437 second- to fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing students selected through stratified random sampling. The study utilized one researcher-made questionnaire to assess the level of utilization of learning resources and one adapted questionnaire to determine the perceived level of learning outcomes. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage, were used to determine the level of utilization of learning resources and the perceived level of learning outcomes among nursing students. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to assess data normality, while Spearman’s rho was employed to assess correlations between variables at α = 0.05 due to the non-normal distribution of the data.

Results: The findings revealed that learning resources were highly utilized (M = 4.04), with clinical practice learning resources obtaining the highest mean (M = 4.33), followed by peer and faculty support resources (M = 4.14), printed learning resources (M = 3.91), and digital and e-learning resources (M = 3.80). Learning outcomes were also rated high, with the affective outcomes obtaining the highest mean (M = 4.45), followed by the nursing basic skills outcomes (M = 4.20) and psychomotor outcomes (M = 3.77). Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between the level of utilization of learning resources and the perceived level of learning outcomes among nursing students (rs = 0.504, p < 0.001).

Discussion and Recommendations: The findings suggest that greater utilization of learning resources is associated with better perceived learning outcomes among nursing students. Nursing institutions may strengthen access to diverse and practice-oriented learning resources to support academic development and competency enhancement among student nurses.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Married Women Regarding Family Planning Attending Township Primary Healthcare Center (PHCC) Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria

2026-04-27T13:37:17+00:00

Background: Family planning is essential for improving maternal and child health, reducing fertility rates, and promoting socio-economic development. Despite increasing awareness, the uptake and consistent use of contraceptive methods remain influenced by socio-demographic, cultural, and behavioral factors in many parts of Nigeria.

Broad Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of married women regarding family planning at Township Primary Healthcare Centre (PHCC) in Jalingo, Taraba State.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted for the study. A total of 359 married women attending Township PHCC Jalingo were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that captured information on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and contraceptive practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The findings showed that most respondents were within the active reproductive age group and had at least secondary education. Knowledge of family planning was high, with widespread awareness of contraceptive methods and their benefits. Attitudes were generally positive, with the majority of respondents supporting family planning, rejecting religious misconceptions, and engaging in spousal communication. The level of practice was also high, with 79.1% currently using a family planning method, exceeding national averages. However, side effects, fear of adverse reactions, and sociocultural influences, including spousal pressure, were identified as barriers to consistent use. Statistical analysis revealed that educational level significantly influenced knowledge (p = .042), while attitude (p = .008) and marital status (p = .001) significantly influenced practice.

Conclusion/Recommendations: The study concludes that knowledge, attitudes, and practice of family planning among women in the study area are relatively high. However, addressing concerns about side effects, enhancing male involvement, and strengthening community-based education and counseling are essential to improve sustained contraceptive use. Health policymakers and providers should focus on targeted interventions that address sociocultural barriers and promote informed decision-making.

Simulation-Based Cardiac Arrest Training and Its Influence on Knowledge, Skills, and Self-Efficacy of Cardiac Intensive Care Unit Nurse

2026-04-29T02:20:02+00:00

Background: Simulation-based training has become an essential strategy in preparing cardiac intensive care unit nurses for high-risk, time-sensitive events such as cardiac arrest. Evaluating its influence on nurses’ knowledge, clinical skills, and self-efficacy is crucial for strengthening emergency preparedness and improving patient outcomes.

Aim: Simulation-Based Training (SBT) is widely used in high-acuity clinical settings, particularly in cardiac arrest management. This study aimed to determine the role of SBT and its relationship and predictive value on knowledge, clinical skills, and self-efficacy among Specialist Registered Nurses in a Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) in a tertiary hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Methodology: A quantitative descriptive–predictive correlational design was utilized. A total of 107 CICU nurses were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Spearman’s rho, and regression analysis were applied at a 0.05 level of significance.

Results: Respondents demonstrated very high levels of knowledge (mean = 3.58), skills (mean = 3.75), and self-efficacy (mean = 3.55). Significant positive correlations were found between SBT components and knowledge (r = 0.589–0.794, p < 0.01), skills (r = 0.557–0.686, p < 0.01), and self-efficacy (r = 0.496–0.698, p < 0.01). Regression analysis revealed that SBT significantly predicted knowledge (R² = 0.852, p < 0.001), skills (R² = 0.614, p < 0.001), and self-efficacy (R² = 0.635, p < 0.001), with facilitation and debriefing emerging as the strongest predictors.

Conclusion: Simulation-based training significantly supports cognitive, psychomotor, and affective competencies among CICU nurses. Structured facilitation and debriefing are critical in optimizing learning outcomes. A Reflective Learning Workbook was developed to support continuous learning and reinforce post-simulation reflection. The findings support the integration of structured and theory-driven simulation programs in critical care nursing education.

Relationship Between Self-Confidence and Cosmetic Utilization among Student Nurses in a Private College in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-04-30T09:18:39+00:00

Background: Self-confidence and appearance management are important aspects of student nurses’ development, especially in environments where professional image and interpersonal interactions are emphasized. Cosmetic use has become a common practice among students, often linked to self-perception and confidence; however, the relationship between self-confidence and cosmetic utilization remains complex and not fully understood.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of self-confidence and extent of cosmetic utilization among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City, and to examine the significant relationship between these variables.

Study Design: Descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Conducted among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City during the academic year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 325 student nurses were selected using stratified random sampling across all year levels. Data were collected through an online survey using validated adopted instruments measuring self-confidence and cosmetic utilization. Descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) were used to summarize the data. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test assessed normality, and Spearman’s rho correlation was applied to determine the relationship between variables.

Results: The majority of respondents were female (59.5%), with first-year students comprising the largest group (29.4%). Respondents demonstrated relatively high self-confidence (M = 2.29, SD = 0.35) based on a three-point scale (interpreted using scale midpoint criteria) and moderate cosmetic utilization (M = 3.08, SD = 1.39) based on a five-point scale. Cosmetic use was highest during school events (M = 3.81) and was commonly associated with the desire to enhance self-confidence (61.0%) and conceal perceived flaws (57.1%). A weak but statistically significant positive correlation was found between self-confidence and cosmetic utilization (RS = 0.127, P = 0.022), indicating a minimal association between the variables.

Conclusion: Self-confidence and cosmetic utilization among student nurses are positively related, suggesting that cosmetic use serves as a form of self-expression and reinforcement of self-image. Although the relationship is weak, the findings highlight the importance of psychosocial support programs that promote genuine self-confidence and holistic development among future healthcare professionals.

Intravenous (IV) Technology Engagement and Nurses’ Psychological Well-being: A Mixed-methods Study

2026-04-30T10:31:53+00:00

Background: Rapid advancements in intravenous (IV) technology have enhanced precision and patient outcomes but also introduced new cognitive and technical demands for nurses. Understanding how nurses engage with these technologies and how it affects their psychological well-being is crucial for sustaining workforce resilience and quality care.

Aims: This study aimed to examine the relationship between integration technology engagement and the psychological well-being of nurses. It specifically investigated how technology-related factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions influence stress levels and well-being dimensions including environmental mastery, autonomy, personal growth, and self-acceptance.

Study Design: This study utilized a mixed-methods research design employing a sequential explanatory approach.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private hospital in Dharan, Saudi Arabia, among nurses actively using integrated clinical technologies, during the academic year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 241 nurses were selected using simple random sampling from a population of 620. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being model, WHO-5 Well-Being Index, and Perceived Stress Scale. Descriptive statistics, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation were used for analysis. Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with a subset of respondents and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Findings revealed that nurses reported high levels of technology engagement, with weighted means of 3.826 for performance expectancy, 3.69 for effort expectancy, 3.78 for social influence, and 3.65 for facilitating conditions, all interpreted as “Strongly Agree.” Psychological well-being was also high, particularly in environmental mastery (M = 3.669, SD = 0.509). A significant positive relationship was observed between technology engagement and psychological well-being. While technology enhanced workflow efficiency, patient safety, and professional competence, qualitative findings indicated that it also contributed to cognitive workload, stress, and workflow disruptions due to system limitations and operational challenges.

Conclusion: Integration technology plays a critical role in improving nursing performance and patient care; however, it also introduces psychological demands. Continuous training, strong institutional support, and mental health interventions are essential to ensure that technological advancement is balanced with the well-being of nurses.

Factors Associated with Willingness of the First Year Students to Complete the Radiologic Technology Program

2026-04-30T11:53:21+00:00

Background: Early attrition among first-year Radiologic Technology students is a persistent concern, often influenced by a complex interplay of academic preparedness, career motivation, and psychosocial factors. Understanding the determinants of students’ willingness to complete the program is critical for informing targeted interventions that enhance retention, academic success, and professional commitment.

Aims: This study aimed to assess the academic-related factors that influence first year students’ willingness to complete the Radiologic Technology program.

Study Design: This research utilized a cross-sectional and descriptive correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at a private tertiary educational institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, during the Academic Year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 237 first-year Radiologic Technology students were selected from a population of 616 students using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through an adopted and adapted questionnaire consisting of three sections: demographic profile, influencing factors (parental support, financial support, academic motivation, and peer influence), and willingness to complete the program. Responses were measured using a five-point Likert scale. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, and Spearman’s rho correlation to determine relationships between variables.

Results: The findings showed that majority of the respondents came from STEM strands (64.6%), belonged to low-to-middle income families, and had satisfactory to very satisfactory academic performance. The overall factors influencing students showed a high level of manifestation (M = 3.85). Parental support had the highest mean (M = 4.01), followed by peer influence (M = 3.90), financial support (M = 3.74), and academic motivation (M = 3.74). The correlation analysis showed that all factors had significant positive relationships with willingness to complete the program (p < 0.001). Academic motivation showed the strongest correlation (rs = 0.649), followed by peer influence (rs = 0.552), parental support (rs = 0.526), and financial support (rs = 0.500). Additionally, STEM students demonstrated significantly higher willingness compared to non-STEM students.

Conclusion: Academic motivation, peer influence, parental support, and financial support significantly influence students’ willingness to complete the Radiologic Technology program. These factors collectively strengthen students’ persistence and commitment toward completing their degree.

Social Support and Psychological Well-Being among Student Nurses with OFW Parents in a Private School in Iloilo City

2026-05-01T11:02:19+00:00

Background: Student nurses with Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) parents often experience unique emotional and social challenges due to prolonged parental absence. Understanding how social support influences their psychological well-being is essential in promoting resilience and academic success in this population.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between perceived social support and psychological well-being among student nurses with Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) parents in a private school in Iloilo City. Specifically, it assessed the level of social support, the level of psychological well-being, and the significant relationship between these variables.

Study Design: A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was utilized.

Place and Duration of Study: Iloilo Doctors' College, Iloilo City, Philippines, during the academic year 2025–2026, completed within three months.

Methodology: A total of 205 student nurses with OFW parents were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using standardized instruments, namely the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) and Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scale (RPWB). Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used to summarize the data. The Shapiro-Wilk test indicated non-normal distribution; thus, Spearman’s rho was employed to determine the relationship between variables. Ethical standards, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly observed.

Results: Findings revealed a moderate to high level of perceived social support (M = 5.19) and a moderate level of psychological well-being (M = 3.98). Among sources of support, friends had the highest mean (M = 5.31), followed by significant others (M = 5.26) and family (M = 5.01). Inferential analysis showed a statistically significant but weak positive relationship between social support and psychological well-being (rₛ = 0.147, p = 0.036), indicating that while higher perceived social support is associated with better psychological well-being, the strength of this relationship is minimal.

Conclusion: Social support plays a role in enhancing the psychological well-being of student nurses with OFW parents; however, the weak strength of correlation suggests that other factors also significantly influence psychological well-being. Strengthening support systems, alongside addressing other psychological and environmental factors, may better improve students’ mental and emotional health.

Knowledge and Practice of Fire Safety among Students Residing in Off-campus Hostels in Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria

2026-05-02T12:30:00+00:00

Background: Fire safety remains a critical component of occupational health, particularly in industrial and commercial environments where workers are exposed to flammable materials, electrical hazards, and inadequate emergency preparedness systems. In developing countries such as Nigeria, weak enforcement of fire safety regulations, poor infrastructure, and low compliance levels contribute significantly to fire-related injuries, fatalities, and property loss.

Aim: This study assessed the knowledge and practice of fire safety among students residing in off-campus hostels around Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 425 undergraduate students selected using multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were employed, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The majority of respondents were aged 21-25 years (46.1%), female (52.7%), and Igbo (85.2%). Overcrowding was prevalent, with 85.4% sharing rooms with three or more persons. Overall, 63.5% demonstrated good knowledge of fire safety (mean score: 4.96 ± 1.55/9), but significant gaps existed in practical knowledge including PASS technique (24.0% unaware) and emergency numbers (44.0% unaware). Only 49.2% exhibited good preventive practices (mean: 3.47 ± 1.00/5), while a mere 29.9% demonstrated good response preparedness (mean: 3.70 ± 1.43/8). No significant association existed between knowledge and practice (p = 0.516). Major barriers included lack of facilities (39.5%) and negative peer behaviour (26.4%). Age and overcrowding were significant predictors of both practices and preparedness.

Conclusion: Despite adequate theoretical knowledge, students demonstrate poor translation of knowledge into practice and critically inadequate response preparedness. Urgent multi-level interventions addressing infrastructural deficits, mandatory fire drills, and targeted education for vulnerable groups (older students and those in crowded accommodations) are essential to reduce fire vulnerability in off-campus hostels.

Cognitive Anxiety and Attitude towards Professional Help among Student Nurses in A Private College in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-05-04T04:46:42+00:00

Background: Earlier studies examined cognitive anxiety and attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help separately

Aims: To determine the relationship between cognitive anxiety and attitudes toward professional psychological support among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City.

Study Design: Descriptive correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: Private college of nursing in Iloilo City, Philippines, second semester, AY 2025 to 2026.

Methodology: A total of 324 nursing students participated through stratified random sampling. Tools used were the Cognitive Test Anxiety Scale and Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale Short Form. The Kolmogorov Smirnov test checked normality. Mann Whitney U and Kruskal Wallis tests examined group differences. Spearman rho tested relationships. Ethical clearance was secured.

Results: Findings revealed that nursing students experienced noticeable levels of cognitive test anxiety, with worry, fear of failure, and post-test self-doubt emerging as the most prominent features. Attitudes toward professional psychological help were generally negative, although female students demonstrated a more positive disposition than males. Differences in cognitive anxiety were observed across year levels, with first-year students reporting the highest levels of anxiety, while attitudes toward professional help remained largely consistent across academic levels. The study found no significant relationship between cognitive test anxiety and help-seeking attitudes, indicating that gender differences had a stronger influence on professional support-seeking than anxiety levels.

Conclusion: Student nurses generally experience noticeable cognitive anxiety. Lower-year students experience higher levels of anxiety compared to their senior counterparts. Most respondents held negative attitudes toward professional psychological help, although female students demonstrated more positive attitudes than male students. The study found no significant relationship between cognitive test anxiety and help-seeking attitudes, indicating that sex differences had a stronger influence on attitudes toward seeking professional support than anxiety levels alone.

Recommendations: Academic support programs and accessible mental health services are recommended to reduce cognitive anxiety and improve help-seeking behavior among nursing students. Future studies should include multiple institutions and explore factors such as self-efficacy and coping skills.

Herbal Plants: A Quantitative Study on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Households in a Rural Community in Philippines

2026-05-04T09:14:11+00:00

Background: Herbal plants continue to be widely utilized in households, particularly in rural communities, due to their affordability, accessibility, and cultural significance. However, concerns regarding their safety, quality, and the lack of standardized knowledge underscore the need to assess individuals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward their appropriate use. Herbal plants constitute an essential component of primary health care in rural communities attributable to their accessibility, affordability, and cultural significance

Aims: This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) respecting Department of Health (DOH)-approved herbal plants among households in a particular rural community in Iloilo Province, Philippines, and to determine the relationships among these variables.

Study Design: A descriptive-correlational approach to research was applied.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted among households in a selected rural community in Iloilo Province during the academic year 2025–2026.

Methodology: Data was collected from 117 households’ respondents utilizing a validated questionnaire that was developed and prepared by the researchers.

Results: The findings demonstrated that the survey respondents had an acceptable moderate knowledge of herbal plants, especially about their safety and common uses. The respondents exhibited a markedly favorable disposition towards herbal plants, demonstrating substantial attitudes regarding their therapeutic value, safety, and continual relevance in health care. The respondents demonstrated a significant degree of practice, as numerous households consistently produced and utilized herbal plants for prevalent health issues and adhered to suggested preparation techniques. It was indicated there was no significant correlation between knowledge and attitude, nor between knowledge and practice. A notable moderate positive correlation was identified between attitude and practice, indicating that good attitudes toward herbal plants are linked to their regular utilization within homes.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the necessity of enhancing community-based health education initiatives to augment understanding of the accurate identification, preparation, and dose of herbal plants. Improving awareness through culturally appropriate and evidence-based health education may further encourage the safe and effective utilization of DOH-approved herbal plants as complementary health practices in rural communities.

Evaluation of Hygiene Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Mothers in a Selected Barangay Community in Iloilo, Philippines: A Cross Sectional Study

2026-05-05T08:37:48+00:00

Good hygiene practices play a crucial role in preventing common illnesses, but their effectiveness depends on socioeconomic, educational, and cultural factors that shape how mothers care for their children. This study examined the hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers in a selected barangay in Iloilo City. Poor hygiene remains a common cause of preventable diseases in many communities, especially among children. Mothers play an important role in maintaining family health, yet challenges in hygiene behavior may still exist. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship among mothers’ hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and to identify differences based on socio-economic factors. A cross-sectional descriptive-correlational design was used among 368 mothers selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Results revealed that 62.5% of mothers had low hygiene knowledge, 58.7% demonstrated low attitudes, and 54.3% exhibited moderate hygiene practices. No significant relationship was found between mothers’ attitudes and their hygiene practices. Socio-economic factors such as civil status, education, and employment were not significantly associated with hygiene practices. However, the number of children and living arrangements showed significant differences, with mothers in larger or blended families demonstrating better practices. To conclude, hygiene practices were influenced more by family support systems than by attitudes alone. This identifies the need for community-based programs that strengthen hygiene education and provide practical support to mothers, especially those in single-parent households, to improve overall family health.

Social Inclusivity and Well-Being among Student Nurses

2026-05-07T04:03:26+00:00

Background: Social inclusivity in nursing education is essential for promoting student belonging, well-being, and competence, yet gaps in its implementation often lead to stress, marginalization, and reduced mental health outcomes among student nurses.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the correlation between the level of social inclusivity and well-being among student nurses in a private college institution during the Academic Year 2025-2026, second semester. Specifically, it sought to assess the extent of social inclusivity in terms of social isolation, social relations, and social acceptance, evaluate the level of well-being in terms of academic satisfaction, academic efficacy, school connectedness, and college gratitude, and determine if a significant relationship exists between social inclusivity and well-being.

Study Design: This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private college institution in Iloilo City, Philippines, among student nurses. Data collection was carried out from January 15 to February 3, 2026, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025-2026.

Methodology: The study included 326 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students from first to fourth year, selected using stratified random sampling based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were gathered using two adopted instruments: The Social Inclusion Scale Questionnaire 9 SIS Secker et al., 2009) and The College Subjective Well-being Questionnaire (CSSWQ: Renshaw et al., 2016). The Social Inclusion Questionnaire assessed social isolation, social relations, and social acceptance using a 4-point Likert scale. The Well-Being assessed academic satisfaction, academic efficacy, school connectedness, and college gratitude using a 7-point Likert scale.

Data collection was conducted through a face-to-face survey after obtaining ethical clearance and institutional approval. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used, while Spearman’s rho was applied to determine the relationship between social inclusivity and well-being variables in non-normal data distribution.

Results: The study involved 326 respondents. The overall mean score for social inclusivity was 3.28, indicating that student nurses generally possess a level of social inclusion. Social inclusivity was highest in the domain of social acceptance (M = 3.50), followed by social isolation (M = 3.30) and social relations (M = 3.04). For well-being, the results showed that students generally possess a positive level of well-being (M = 5.37), with college gratitude (M = 5.92) being the most prominent domain, followed by academic satisfaction (M =5.56), school connectedness (M= 5,09), and academic efficacy (M= 4.90). This indicates that while students are highly thankful for their actual educational opportunities, their confidence in their academic skills is the area with the most room for growth. Inferential analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed a positive and significant relationship between overall social inclusivity and well-being (rs = 0.448, p <0.001). All dimensions of social inclusivity and well-being showed statistically in terms of social isolation, relations, and acceptance is associated with higher levels of academic satisfaction, efficacy, and connectedness. Specifically, a strong correlation was found between overall social inclusivity and school connectedness (rs= 0.892, p <0.001), indicating that a sense of belonging within the academic community is a foundational requirement for the psychological and emotional health of student nurses.

Conclusion: The study concludes that social inclusivity is significantly positively associated with well-being among student nurses. Their prominent social inclusivity reflects a supportive environment where family and peer acceptance provide a strong foundation for their social identity, although their engagement in broader cultural relations and feelings of safety in their neighbourhoods remain limited. Their well-being also shows a high degree of academic gratitude and appreciation for learning opportunities, which are essential to handle the academic rigours of the nursing curriculum. However, a distinction exists between this sense of gratitude and their actual feelings of academic efficacy and school connectedness, where there is more room for development in terms of personal organisation and peer-level belonging. The inferential analysis shows that as student nurses experience higher levels of social inclusivity and acceptance, they also reflect moderate positive well-being, confirming that an inclusive social environment is a vital component of their overall academic and emotional success.

Impact of the Facilitative Teaching Style on Academic Performance and Learning Experience among Nursing Students in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

2026-05-08T06:34:41+00:00

Introduction: Debates on effective teaching and learning strategies persist globally, particularly in health and social care education, where pedagogical approaches directly influence academic achievement and competency development.

Aim: This study investigated nursing students’ perceptions and the effectiveness of the facilitative teaching style among students in schools of nursing in Ebonyi State, Nigeria to contribute to evidence-based nurse-education practices.

Methods: A mixed-method design, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches through survey and quasi-experimental methods, was employed. Using purposive sampling, 244 student nurses from the School of Nursing (SON), Mater Hospital Afikpo, and the Federal Teaching Hospital (FETHA), Ebonyi, were selected. Ethical approval was obtained from the respective institutional review committees, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire, alongside pre- and post-test assessments to measure learning outcomes following exposure to facilitative teaching techniques. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 15, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Students initially rated facilitative teaching as ineffective in stimulating their diverse academic abilities (mean = 1.68). In contrast, post-test findings demonstrated a markedly high level of effectiveness (82.9%) in enhancing learning outcomes. Students’ geographical location significantly influenced their perceptions, whereas year of study showed no significant association with the effectiveness of the facilitative approach.

Conclusion: Despite initial negative perceptions, facilitative teaching techniques demonstrated substantial effectiveness in improving learning outcomes. The disparity highlights limited prior exposure and adaptation challenges. Sustained integration of facilitative teaching methods in nursing education is strongly recommended to enhance student engagement, adaptability, and academic performance in order to maximise its benefits.

Educational Intervention and Uptake of Cervical Cancer Screening Services among Female Civil Servants in Delta State, Nigeria

2026-05-08T10:47:45+00:00

Cervical cancer is a major public health concern among women, despite the availability of effective screening services capable of detecting precancerous changes before progression to invasive disease. Yet uptake of cervical cancer screening services remains low in many Nigerian settings, including among female civil servants who constitute an organised and accessible workforce for workplace-based health promotion. This study examined the effect of educational intervention on the knowledge and uptake of cervical cancer screening services among female civil servants in Delta State, and also identified selected socio-demographic determinants of uptake. The study was guided by three objectives and corresponding research questions. A quasi-experimental research design was adopted. The population of the study comprised 1,680 female civil servants, while the sample size was 336 respondents selected through multistage sampling procedures. The intervention consisted of four structured educational sessions on the meaning of cervical cancer, risk factors, signs and symptoms, prevention, and available screening services. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers, validated by experts, and tested for reliability using Cronbach Alpha, which yielded coefficients of 0.80 and 0.78. Data were analysed using ANCOVA and Chi-square at the 0.05 level of significance. The study showed that the educational intervention significantly improved knowledge of cervical cancer screening services, F(4, 331) = 172.384, (p < .001), and significantly improved uptake of screening services, F(4, 331) = 152.705, (p < .001). The result also showed that age, marital status, educational qualification, location of residence, and personal income range significantly influenced uptake. The study concludes that educational intervention is effective in improving both knowledge and uptake of cervical cancer screening services among female civil servants in Delta State. It recommends sustained workplace-based health education and improved access to screening services.

Factors Associated with Intention to Use Modern Family Planning Methods among Male Adults in a Highly Urbanized Community

2026-05-12T12:42:27+00:00

Introduction: Limited male involvement and understanding of modern family planning (MFP) significantly affect reproductive health outcomes and decision-making within families. Historically, contraceptive responsibility has been imbalanced, yet progress toward shared responsibility is supported by the development of diverse male methods like condoms and vasectomy. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the intention to use MFP methods among male adults by assessing their levels of attitude and perception toward these methods.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed. The study was conducted in Brgy. South Baluarte, Molo, Iloilo City, an area with a low Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (CPR). Data were collected from 100 male adults (aged 18 and above) selected through convenience sampling using a validated 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Spearman’s rho was utilized to determine the relationships between attitude, perception, and intention.

Results: Most respondents were young adults aged 18–30 (42%), single (66%), and had no prior history of family planning use (74%). Male adults demonstrated generally positive attitudes and a high level of intention to use MFP (Overall Mean = 4.55, SD = 0.415). While perceptions were overall favorable (Mean = 4.30), misconceptions regarding vasectomy—specifically concerns about safety, masculinity, and sexual performance—remained, resulting in lower scores for those indicators compared to condom use.

Discussion: A statistically significant relationship was found between attitude and intention (r = 0.45, p < .01), and between perception and intention (r = 0.31, p = .002). These findings suggest that as attitudes and perceptions become more positive, the intention to adopt MFP increases. Although the correlation for perception was weak, it indicates a measurable influence on behavioral intent, highlighting that improving understanding can directly strengthen the motivation to practice modern family planning.

Recommendations: Nursing students and educators should integrate male-centered reproductive health into curricula and community programs to enhance counseling skills and correct common myths. Health professionals are encouraged to provide "male-friendly" services that specifically address fears regarding vasectomy. Furthermore, policymakers should support community-based initiatives to promote shared reproductive responsibility and reduce the social stigma associated with male contraceptive use.

Procrastinating of Student Nurses in a Private College of Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-05-12T12:49:50+00:00

Background: Academic procrastination among nursing students is a growing concern influenced by academic workload, stress, study habits, and digital distractions, affecting their performance and clinical preparation.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of procrastination among student nurses in a private college in Iloilo City and examine differences according to year level and sex.

Study Design: Quantitative, descriptive-comparative research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a private college in Iloilo City, Philippines, from January to March 2026.

Methodology: A total of 325 Bachelor of Science in Nursing students were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through a 40-item researcher-made questionnaire measuring procrastination in terms of study habits, academic workload, distractions, and task interest. The instrument demonstrated excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.947). Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results: Results showed that student nurses generally had quite a high level of academic procrastination, especially when it came to academic workload and distraction, whereas moderate levels were only observed in study habits and task interest. This indicates that the respondents are most likely to delay their academic tasks because of an overwhelming workload and the lure of digital and other distractions. Specifically, students showed the greatest tendencies to procrastinate in areas where there were heavy academic demands and frequent opportunities for online engagement, while the lowest procrastination tendencies were found in terms of task interest. First-year students exhibited slightly higher levels of procrastination; however, no significant differences were found when grouped according to year level and sex.

Conclusion: Procrastination is a consistent behavior among nursing students, influenced by academic demands and environmental distractions. Interventions focusing on time management, workload management, and reducing distractions are recommended.

Preventive Measures and Extent of Eye Strain among Nursing Students in Private College of Nursing

2026-05-12T13:27:21+00:00

Background: Eye strain has become a common health problem among nursing students due to increased use of digital devices and long study hours. Understanding preventive measures is important to promote eye health, improve academic performance, and reduce visual discomfort among students.

Aims: This study investigated the relationship between preventive practices and the extent of Digital Eye Strain (DES) among student nurses. It specifically explored whether current ergonomic and behavioral interventions significantly mitigate ocular fatigue within a demanding clinical and academic framework, addressing a critical gap in student occupational health.

Study Design: A descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Iloilo Doctor’s College, Iloilo City, Philippines, Academic Year 2025-2026.

Methodology: Utilizing stratified random sampling, 325 nursing students across four year levels were enrolled. Data were gathered via a validated online survey assessing demographic profiles, frequency of preventive behaviors, and DES symptom severity. Ethical protocols were strictly maintained, with institutional clearance and informed consent obtained from all participants.

Results: The cohort was predominantly female (72.9%), with nearly half (46.2%) reporting 7-10 hours of daily digital exposure. Students demonstrated a moderate engagement in preventive measures (m=2.19 out of 3), prioritizing environmental modifications like screen temperature adjustment over pharmacological options. The reported extent of DES was moderate (m=2.44 out of 4), characterized primarily by light sensitivity and halos. Spearman’s rho revealed a statistically significant but very low positive correlation ( = 0.147; p=.008) between preventive practices and DES levels. This weak association critically indicates that while practices are present, they are insufficient or applied too inconsistently to provide substantial clinical relief.

Conclusion: The study identifies a significant “knowledge-pratice gap”, where moderate preventive efforts fail to translate into a meaningful reduction of DES. These findings highlight the need to move beyond individual student responsibility toward eye-health education, such as the 20-20-20 rule, into the nursing curriculum and developing campus wide digital wellness initiatives to protect the long-term ocular health of future healthcare professionals.

A Robust Multilevel and Uncertainty-Aware Analysis of Prevalence, Inequality and Treatment Gaps in Diabetes Burden in West Africa (1990-2022)

2026-05-13T07:53:15+00:00

Background: Diabetes is spreading fast in West Africa, but the available evidence has been limited due to the lack of proper treatment of outliers, nonlinear dynamics, and uncertainty in epidemiological estimates.

Purpose: To present a sound, uncertainty-conscious, multilevel study of the prevalence, inequality, and treatment disparity of diabetes in West Africa (1990-2022).

Methods: A longitudinal panel dataset (country x year x age x sex) was processed by a strong and reproducible framework. The sensitivity to outliers was measured by Z-score, IQR, and MAD with winsorisation and model performance was measured by cross-validation and information criteria (AIC/BIC). Linear mixed-effects models, generalised additive models, and beta mixed regression were used to model prevalence dynamics. Cross-country heterogeneity was captured using random effects. Sigma dispersion, coefficient of variation, Gini, and Theil indices were used to measure inequality and convergence. We modelled the treatment gaps and uncertainty using a two-part approach and simulation-based inference.

Findings: MAD approach detected more outliers (11.55) and improved model fit, and cross-validation confirmed the stability of estimates. The prevalence of diabetes has increased with time (β = 0.019), in women and in older age groups. There were nonlinear dynamics in time and a large country-wide heterogeneity. There was partial convergence of inequality, with decreasing relative but level absolute inequality. There were no improvements in treatment coverage relative to prevalence, which means that there were growing gaps.

Conclusion: Diabetes burden in West Africa is growing nonlinearly, with its inequalities and lack of treatment growth. Policy should be reinforced with early detection, fair access to treatment, and age- and gender-sensitive approaches to reach SDG 3 and minimise inequalities (SDG 10).

Self-Control and Perseverance among Student Nurses in Private College of Nursing in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-05-15T06:15:11+00:00

Background: Nursing Education students, particularly Generation Z, face increasing academic, clinical, and emotional pressures that make self-control and perseverance essential for resilience, academic success, and professional readiness, yet Philippine-based evidence on these traits remains limited.

Aims: This study aims to examine relationships between self-control and perseverance among student nurses in a private college of nursing, it aims to determine the levels of self-control and perseverance and identity whether there is a significant relationship between the two variables.While the study was limited to one private nursing college in Iloilo City and relied on self-reported data, the findings suggest that integrating resilience-building activities and mentoring programs into nursing curricula may strengthen self-control and perseverance, thereby improving academic resilience, student retention, and professional preparedness.

Study Design: This study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design.

Place and Duration of Study: Iloilo Doctors’ College, Iloilo City Philippines, Academic Year 2025-2026.

Methodology: Utilizing stratified random sampling, 340 nursing students across four year levels were enrolled. Data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire: the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS) and the Short Grit Scale (Grit-S) assessing demographic profiles, assessing demographic profiles, frequency of self-control and perseverance. Ethical protocols were strictly maintained, with institutional clearance and informed consent obtained from all participants.

Results: Result showed that student nurses demonstrated an average level of self-control (M = 3.15, SD = 0.364) and a high level of perseverance (M = 3.35). Reliability and task completion obtained the highest mean scores among the indicators. Statistical analysis revealed a significant moderate positive relationship between self-control and perseverance, suggesting that students with stronger self-regulation also showed greater persistence in overcoming academic and clinical challenges.

Conclusion: The study concluded that self-control plays an important role in strengthening perseverance among nursing students. Enhancing self-regulation skills through resilience-building activities, mentoring programs, and supportive educational strategies may improve students’ academic endurance, resilience, professional preparedness, and retention in nursing education.

Evidence-Based Practice (EBP): Belief and Competence among Staff Nurses in a Private Hospital in Iloilo City, Philippines

2026-05-16T11:15:43+00:00

Background: The increasing demand for high-quality, research-based nursing care highlights the importance of understanding nurses’ beliefs and competence in Evidence-Based Practice to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the level of belief and competence toward Evidence-Based Practice among staff nurses in a private hospital in Iloilo City and to examine the relationship between these variables.

Study Design: A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was utilized.

Place and Duration of Study: Sample: The study was conducted in a private hospital school in Iloilo City, Philippines, during the year 2025–2026.

Methodology: A total of 92 staff nurses were selected through random sampling. Data were collected using standardized instruments, namely the EBP Belief Scale by Abu-Baker and EBP Competence Scale developed by Melnyk et al. (2008) Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used to summarize the data. The Shapiro-Wilk test indicated non-normal distribution; thus, Spearman’s rho was employed to determine the relationship between variables. Ethical standards, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly observed.

Results: The study indicates that staff nurses primarily male and concentrated in intensive care units demonstrate high levels of EBP belief (M=4.37) and competence (M}=4.27). While nurses expressed certainty that EBP improves clinical care, challenges remain in research methodology and data analysis. Significantly, a strong positive relationship exists between these variables, confirming that higher conviction in evidence-based principles directly enhances professional proficiency.

Conclusion: Findings revealed that nurses demonstrated high levels of belief and competence toward EBP. A significant positive relationship was found between belief and competence, indicating that stronger belief in EBP is associated with higher perceived competence. The study concludes that strengthening nurses’ belief systems may enhance their competence in EBP implementation. These findings highlight the need for structured training and institutional support to sustain evidence-based nursing practice.

Strategic Plan Implementation in Healthcare Organizations: A Descriptive Qualitative Study with Implications for Nursing Practice

2026-05-16T12:06:56+00:00

Background: Strategic planning is important for improving healthcare services and organizational performance. Effective implementation requires active participation of nurses, proper coordination, and strong management support.

Aim: The implementation of strategic plan is a crucial activity that determines the organization’s capacity to turn its vision and long-term goals into tangible measurable accomplishments. The research analyzes the best practices and challenges of strategic implementation with specific emphasis on the persistent gap between planning and execution due to communication, leadership engagement, resource availability and organizational alignment. This study contributes to the scholarly community by addressing the persistent gap between strategic planning and effective implementation in healthcare organizations. The qualitative investigation generated significant insights about the impact of leadership, communication and organizational alignment on strategy implementation performance in challenging clinical scenarios. Drawing on extant information, the study provides a contextualized understanding of implementation problems and practical enablers based on real-world experience. Importantly, the findings have practical significance for nursing practice as they demonstrate how management procedures and strategic decisions impact on the delivery of care and, subsequently, patient outcomes.

Methodology: This study used a narrative analysis approach to analyze the narratives of seven individuals from the fields of healthcare, law, education, corporate, and aviation. The study is based on direct comments from the participants. The study focuses on how people make sense of their roles, leadership and organizational tactics during implementation.

Results: The results provide profound insights into the structural and human factors of strategy execution in complex organizational contexts. The tales from participants suggest that successful implementation is a result of dynamic interactions between people, systems and leadership practices rather than the consequence of carefully designed strategic plans.

Conclusion: Effective strategy implementation is more than following a set of procedures. Strong leadership engagement, clear communication, and adequate resources and organizational alignment are critical. Studies have shown that the investment in human and operational infrastructure is the key to closing the gap between planning and performance. This is important for initiatives to sustain meaningful impacts.

Nightshift Work Performance and Safety and Its Physiological Effect among Nurses

2026-05-16T12:53:51+00:00

Background: Earlier Night shift work has been associated with physiological strain and potential threats to nurse performance and patient safety. studies examined cognitive anxiety and attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help separately

Aims: To determine the relationship between night shift work performance and safety and its physiological effects among nurses in a selected hospital Iloilo City.

Study Design: Descriptive correlational design.

Place and Duration of Study: Private college of nursing in Iloilo City, Philippines, second semester, AY 2025 to 2026.

Methodology: A total of 100 registered nurses who worked full or rotating night shifts were selected through Total Enumeration sampling. Tools used were the Demographic Profile and Night Shift Effects on Nurses’ Health Scale and Performance, Safety, and Physiological Impact of Night Shift Work Scale. The Kolmogorov Smirnov test checked normality. Spearman rho tested relationships. Ethical clearance was secured.

Results: Findings revealed that the majority of nurses assigned to night shifts were female, belonged to the early young adult age group, had more than one year of work experience, and reported short sleep durations. Despite the challenges commonly associated with night shift work, the nurses demonstrated a high level of performance and safety, particularly in terms of interpersonal support and coordinated efforts among healthcare staff. However, some difficulties were still observed in relation to patient cooperation and the physiological demands of night shift work while physiological effects, the nurses reported that they were generally able to remain active during night shifts. Nevertheless, some respondents expressed concerns about obtaining sufficient sleep and maintaining a healthy lifestyle while working night duty. The study found a moderate positive relationship between performance and safety and physiological effects.

Conclusion: Young female nurses with short sleep duration and limited sleep enhancing practices generally perceived that performance and safety were maintained during night shifts, particularly in terms of teamwork, although patient cooperation posed challenges. Physiological effects were perceived to be minimal overall; however, concerns related to healthy lifestyle maintenance were noted. The study found a moderate positive relationship between performance and safety and physiological effects, suggesting that physiological experiences influence work function during night duty. The study concludes that while demonstrating adaptability and sustained performance during night shifts, physiological well-being remains an essential factor in maintaining safety and quality of care.

Knowledge and Practices Regarding Antibiotic Use among Adults in a Selected Barangay in Molo, Iloilo City, Philippines: A Descriptive-Correlational Study

2026-05-20T13:28:57+00:00

Background: Antibiotic resistance is escalating due to factors such as incomplete adherence to prescribed dosages, procurement of antibiotics from unregulated sources, and the sharing of prescriptions. The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, driven by improper antibiotic use and limited public awareness, highlights the need to assess community knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use in Iloilo City.

Aims: This study determined the knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use among adult residents in a selected barangay in Molo, Iloilo City, to identify specific gaps for public health interventions.

Study Design: A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in a barangay at Molo, Iloilo City, during the second semester of Academic Year 2025-2026.

Methodology: The study involved 100 adult residents selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated survey instrument covering demographic profiles, knowledge (15-item True/False/Don't Know format), and practices (4-point Likert scale). To determine the appropriate inferential statistical tool, the normality of the data was assessed. Because knowledge (p=.001) and practice (p=.006) scores violated the assumption of normality, Spearman’s rho was used to analyze the relationship between the two variables.

Results: The respondents demonstrated a moderate level of knowledge (M=8.13, SD=2.77) and a moderate level of practice (M=2.63) regarding antibiotic use. Statistical analysis using Spearman’s rho revealed no significant relationship between knowledge and practice (r=-0.19, p=.058), indicating that higher knowledge does not necessarily translate to safer behavioral practices. While trust in medical professionals is high, the high prevalence of non-adherence suggests that immediate physical relief and social habits—such as sharing medication—outweigh scientific understanding. Targeted health literacy programs should leverage this existing trust to bridge the knowledge-practice gap.

Conclusion: The community has a high level of trust in medical professionals but lacks a deep understanding of the pharmacological differences between antibiotics and other common medications. The high mean for non-adherence suggests that behavioral habits are likely influenced by immediate physical relief rather than scientific understanding. The insignificant relationship between knowledge and practice highlights a knowledge-practice gap. In this community, the high level of trust in medical professionals serves as an essential foundation upon which targeted health literacy programs can be built to address the existing knowledge-practice gap regarding antibiotic use.

Financial Distress and Academic Engagement among Student Nurses

2026-05-21T12:03:46+00:00

Background: Financial distress is a growing concern among student nurses due to the high costs of education and limited financial resources. These financial challenges may negatively affect students’ motivation, concentration, and participation in academic activities, thereby influencing their overall academic engagement and performance.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the relationship between financial distress and academic engagement among student nurses.

Place and Duration of Study: Private college of nursing in Iloilo City, Philippines, second semester, AY 2025 to 2026.

Methodology: A descriptive-correlational design was utilized involving 324 first- to fourth-year student nurses selected through stratified random sampling. The data were collected using validated questionnaires administered through an online survey. Ethical clearance was granted

Results: Findings revealed that student nurses experienced a moderate level of financial distress, particularly in terms of anxiety, physiological responses, and work-related strain. Despite these challenges, respondents demonstrated a generally high level of academic engagement, especially in cognitive engagement and liking for learning, although effort and persistence showed comparatively lower consistency. Statistical analysis indicated weak but significant relationships between selected domains of financial distress and academic engagement, while most domains showed no significant association. The study concludes that financial distress has limited but domain-specific influence on academic engagement, reflecting students’ resilience amid financial challenges.

Conclusion: The respondents were mostly female students in lower year levels with limited financial support. They experienced financial distress across domains, with physiological symptoms as the most evident. Financial strain showed effects on both physical and emotional well being.Despite these conditions, students maintained high academic engagement. They showed strong interest in learning, positive attitudes toward school, and active cognitive involvement. Some variation appeared in sustained effort, yet overall engagement remained stable. Financial distress showed weak and domain specific links with academic outcomes. It affected selected areas but did not broadly reduce engagement. Students sustained motivation and learning despite financial strain.

Exploring Psychological Safety among Newly Registered Nurses in Clinical Practice: A Qualitative Inquiry

2026-05-26T12:01:21+00:00

Background: Psychological safety is essential in promoting confidence, communication, learning, and professional development among newly registered nurses transitioning into clinical practice. Despite its recognized importance in healthcare, limited qualitative studies have explored how newly registered nurses experience psychological safety within actual clinical environments.

Aim: This study explored the experiences of newly registered nurses regarding psychological safety in clinical practice.

Methodology: A qualitative descriptive design was employed involving nine newly registered nurses employed in selected private healthcare hospitals in Cabanatuan City. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on established inclusion criteria. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews using a validated interview guide and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.

Results: Five major themes emerged from the analysis: navigating the challenges of early nursing practice, experiencing supportive communication in clinical practice, barriers to speaking up, psychological safety as a catalyst for professional growth, and recommendations for a psychologically safe workplace. Findings revealed that supportive communication, mentorship, teamwork, and constructive leadership enhanced confidence, learning, and clinical decision-making among newly registered nurses. Conversely, workplace hierarchy, fear of criticism, and stressful clinical environments hindered open communication and psychological safety.

Conclusion: Psychological safety significantly influences the transition experiences, emotional well-being, communication behaviors, and professional growth of newly registered nurses. Establishing supportive and psychologically safe clinical environments through respectful communication, mentorship, and collaborative leadership may strengthen nurse confidence, professional adjustment, and quality patient care.

Self-Awareness in Patient Care among Filipino Nurses: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

2026-05-28T13:13:52+00:00

Background: The nursing profession is widely recognised as emotionally demanding owing to continual exposure to stressful clinical environments, patient suffering, substantial workloads, and persistent workplace pressures. Nurses are frequently required to regulate their emotions while maintaining professionalism and delivering high-quality patient care under emotionally and physically exhausting conditions. The cumulative impact of these challenges may adversely affect nurses’ psychological well-being, job satisfaction, and overall professional performance, thereby highlighting the importance of effective emotional coping mechanisms and organisational support systems within healthcare settings.

Aim: This qualitative descriptive study aimed to explore and describe the lived experiences of Filipino nurses in practicing self-awareness in patient care. Specifically, the study sought to describe nurses’ perceptions of self-awareness, examine how self-awareness influences nurse-patient interactions, identify challenges encountered in maintaining self-awareness in demanding clinical environments, and determine how self-awareness contributes to holistic nursing care and professional growth.

Methodology: The study utilized a qualitative descriptive phenomenological design. Participants were registered Filipino nurses actively engaged in direct patient care within selected healthcare institutions in the Philippines. Purposive criterion sampling was employed to select participants who met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews using a researcher-developed interview guide. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Data collection continued until saturation was achieved. Trustworthiness of the study was ensured through credibility, dependability, confirmability, and transferability.

Results: The findings revealed four major themes and twelve subthemes describing the experiences of Filipino nurses in practicing self-awareness in patient care. The first major theme, Developing Awareness of One’s Emotions and Reactions in Care, highlighted nurses’ recognition of emotional responses, stress, fatigue, and emotional regulation during patient care. The second major theme, Strengthening Compassionate and Therapeutic Patient Care, emphasized how self-awareness enhanced empathy, malasakit, therapeutic communication, and holistic patient care. The third major theme, Struggling to Maintain Self-Awareness in Demanding Clinical Environments, reflected challenges related to burnout, emotional exhaustion, toxic duties, and balancing professionalism with personal emotions. The fourth major theme, Achieving Personal and Professional Growth Through Reflective Practice, described how self-awareness contributed to reflective learning, resilience, emotional maturity, mindfulness, and professional growth among nurses.

Conclusion: The study concluded that self-awareness is an important aspect of nursing practice that influences emotional regulation, therapeutic communication, compassionate patient care, and professional growth among Filipino nurses. Despite the emotional and professional challenges encountered in demanding healthcare environments, nurses demonstrated resilience, reflective awareness, and intentionality in patient care. The findings highlight the importance of promoting self-awareness, reflective practice, and emotional support programs within nursing education and healthcare institutions to strengthen holistic and patient-centered nursing care.

Factors Associated with Dropout from Antenatal Care in the Commune of Kpomassè in Benin in 2024: A Descriptive and Analytical Survey

2026-05-28T13:44:50+00:00

Background: Non-attendance and dropout from antenatal care during pregnancy can lead to complications during childbirth, as well as maternal and infant deaths.

Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the factors associated with dropout from antenatal care in the commune of Kpomassè in 2024.

Methods: A cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical aims was conducted. Women who had given birth and were residing in the commune of Kpomassè, as well as healthcare personnel from health centres, were eligible for inclusion. Women were selected by four-stage cluster random sampling and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used for healthcare personnel, and data were collected using an interview guide. Simple and multiple logistic regression and the chi-squared test were used to identify associated factors.

Results: A total of 568 women who had given birth and 4 midwives were included. The median age of the women surveyed was 26 years (IQR: 23–31). The dropout rate from antenatal care was 70.25% (95% CI: [66.34–73.87]). Several factors, including women's poor decision-making capacity (p=0.002), delayed attendance at the first antenatal care visit (p=0.001), and inadequate qualification of nursing staff (p=0.01), explained dropout from antenatal care in the commune of Kpomassè in 2024.

Conclusion: Dropout from antenatal care constitutes a major public health issue requiring the implementation of targeted interventions in the commune of Kpomassè.

Factors Associated with Poor Utilization of Hospital Delivery Services among Women of Childbearing Age in Birnin Ruwa, Zamfara State, Nigeria

2026-05-29T07:19:46+00:00

Background: Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria contributing significantly to the global burden. Despite the availability of healthcare facilities, poor utilization of hospital delivery services persists among rural women. This study assessed factors responsible for poor utilization of hospital delivery services, in Birnin Ruwa, Gusau, Zamfara State.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was adopted. A sample of 171 women of childbearing age (15–49 years) who had given birth at least once was selected using Multi stage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, and mean scores were computed.

Results: The findings revealed that only 29.2% of respondents utilized hospital delivery services, while 46.8% previously delivered at home. Major factors identified included high cost of delivery services (mean=3.93), preference for Traditional Birth Attendants (mean=3.80), transportation difficulties (mean=3.77), long distance to health facilities (mean=3.75), lack of adequate hospital equipment (mean=3.68), lack of privacy (mean=3.67), limited availability of female healthcare workers (mean=3.66), past negative experiences (mean=3.59), and negative attitudes of healthcare workers (mean=3.57). Despite these barriers, respondents demonstrated positive perceptions of hospital delivery, acknowledging it as safer (mean=4.11) and complication-preventive (mean=4.07). Key strategies identified included reducing delivery costs (mean=4.29), free/subsidized maternity services (mean=4.27), improving healthcare worker attitudes (mean=4.26), strengthening facility equipment (mean=4.25), community health education (mean=4.24), and improving transportation (mean=4.20).

Conclusion: Poor utilization of hospital delivery services is influenced by economic, cultural, and health system-related factors. Multifaceted interventions addressing financial barriers, cultural sensitivities, and healthcare quality are urgently needed.

Nurses’ Knowledge Regarding Childhood Leukaemia at a Specialized Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh

2026-06-03T09:33:51+00:00

Background: Childhood leukaemia is a fatal disease and the second leading cause of death around the world. Nurses are important health care provider should have adequate knowledge about the disease, its development, prevention, diagnosis and treatment approaches.

Objective: To assess the level of nurses’ knowledge regarding childhood leukaemia at a specialized hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 100 using a convenient sampling technique from the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH) in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Data were collected using a self-administered, developed semi-structured questionnaire consisting of 25 items across three (3) dimensions. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean) were done using SPSS software Version 23.

Results: The mean age of nurses was 33.71 years, with a range of 27 to 52 years; among them, about 94% were female, and 68% were muslim by religion. The majority (93%) of the respondents were married. More than half (52%) of the nurses were Diploma in Nursing Science and Midwifery, 17% were Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 21% were Post Basic Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and only 10% of nurses were MSN/MPH by their professional education. About 48% of nurses had 6-10 years of working experience in government service and also 1-5 years of working experience in the cancer department, respectively. Most of the nurses (96%) had no training on childhood leukaemia. Overall findings showed that 53% had an average level of knowledge, 38% of nurses had a good level of knowledge, and only 09% had a poor level of knowledge. The mean total knowledge score on childhood leukaemia was 18.12 out of 25, indicating an overall average level of knowledge. Nurses’ knowledge was relatively more influenced by age 30-34 years, marital status those who were married, higher professional education, and greater work experience in government and cancer hospitals and oncology-related training.

Conclusion and Recommendation: Results suggested that young adults' age, length of service and professional education of the respondents influenced to the more knowledge of childhood leukaemia. Therefore, in-service education and training through an educational program is recommended.

Exploring Organizational Alignment in a Private Specialized Ambulatory Care Center: Insights from Internal Key Stakeholders

2026-06-08T07:39:42+00:00

Organizational alignment between strategic leadership and departmental operations is critical for enhancing quality of care, staff engagement, and operational efficiency in private specialized ambulatory healthcare settings. This paper analyzes findings from a qualitative study conducted with representatives from four important departments such as the Medical/Doctors, Nursing, Reception, and Quality Management of a specialized ambulatory care center. The study focused on understanding how each department aligned with the organizational objectives, recent improvement actions taken, operational obstacles, and the organization's aspiration for the future. The results revealed that all healthcare teams demonstrated commitment toward providing quality patient-centered care and active participation in quality improvement and strategic initiatives. However, some departments reported gaps in operational oversight, role definition, communication pathways, and cross-functional integration. The discussion identifies organizational strengths while highlighting developmental needs related to communication, leadership involvement, and operational coordination. Furthermore, the organizational and structural changes have been suggested in order to improve the current state of the organization and ensure sustainable growth in the future.

Perceived Leadership Styles of Physicians-in-Charge and Occupational Burnout among Public Health Nurses in Selected Community Health Centers in Manila: A Descriptive-Correlational Study

2026-06-12T13:45:07+00:00

Background: Burnout is an occupational phenomenon associated with chronic workplace stress and is commonly reflected in exhaustion, depersonalization or mental distance, and reduced professional efficacy. Public health nurses may be exposed to burnout-related risks because of community-based service demands, high patient contact, administrative responsibilities, and resource constraints. Leadership is one organizational factor that may shape nurses’ workplace experience, but evidence from Philippine public health settings remains limited.

Objective: This study examined the association between public health nurses’ perceptions of Physicians-in-Charge leadership styles and occupational burnout dimensions in selected community health centers in Manila.

Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional descriptive-correlational design was used. The analytic sample comprised 82 public health nurses from selected community health centers across Manila. Leadership style was assessed using the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire framework, and burnout was assessed using Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey dimensions. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to examine associations between transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire leadership and burnout-related outcomes. This revised version reports exact p values and 95% confidence intervals recalculated from the reported correlations and sample size.

Results: Transformational leadership showed a weak positive association with emotional exhaustion (r = .22, p = .047) and a moderate positive association with personal accomplishment (r = .51, p < .001), but it was not significantly associated with depersonalization (r = -.06, p = .592). Transactional leadership was not significantly associated with emotional exhaustion or depersonalization but was strongly associated with personal accomplishment (r = .61, p < .001). Laissez-faire leadership showed weak positive associations with depersonalization (r = .24, p = .030), personal accomplishment (r = .39, p < .001), and the originally computed burnout index (r = .29, p = .008). After a conservative Bonferroni correction for 12 correlations, only the stronger associations with personal accomplishment and selected overall burnout-index associations remained statistically robust.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that perceived leadership style is associated with selected burnout-related dimensions among the sampled public health nurses. However, the cross-sectional, self-report, purposive-sampling design prevents causal interpretation.