College of Nursing dominates in Region 8's Health Research Symposium

The competition spearheaded by the Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) was held from October 30 to 31, 2024, at the Summit Hotel in Tacloban City. 

This annual regional research event celebrated regional research achievements focused on critical health issues, with VSU-CON emerging as a standout among participating institutions.

A sweep in the poster-making competition

In the poster competition, VSU nursing students captured the top three spots, underscoring their commitment to advancing health research and addressing public health challenges in their community.

First place was snatched by authors Ma. Mariel D. Gelizon, Marry Luchie B. Nierre, Zenneth Celeste B. Pelino, Farah Paula V. Suganob, Phoebe Lynn B. Calungsod and Janet Alexis A. De los Santos with their study on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice on Responsible Antibiotic Use among Barangay Health Workers in Baybay City, Leyte

Their poster explored the essential role of responsible antibiotic use among barangay health workers, who are crucial in combating antibiotic resistance at the grassroots level. 

Their research highlighted gaps in knowledge and potential areas for training to enhance responsible antibiotic practices, an essential component in addressing one of the most pressing global health concerns.

Second place was garnered by authors Rhyza Angela S. Magallanes, Viamma Mae Gurra, Mary Agnes C. Ratilla, Merry Eloise P. Tabaranza, Generose A. Ticoy, Ric-an Artemio Gadin, and Janet Alexis A. De los Santos with their research entitled Assessment on the Awareness of HIV/AIDS among Faculty Members in a Public University in Leyte.

Their entry examined the level of awareness of HIV/AIDS among university faculty, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in reducing stigma and promoting preventative practices. 

This study called attention to the critical role educators play in HIV/AIDS education and advocacy within academic institutions.

Third place went to the study entitled Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Antibiotics as a Home Remedy among Households in Baybay City, authored by Althea Denise D. Paquibo, Lorence Carmie E. Banos, Ron Pearl Angelie C. Cardona, Guillian Mari N. Lim, Mary Guille B. Mapute, Ciedelle Gapasin, and Janet Alexis A. De los Santos.

This poster research delved into household practices concerning the use of antibiotics as home remedies. 

By highlighting the risks of self-medication and misuse of antibiotics, the study shed light on the need for community education on proper antibiotic use to curb antibiotic resistance.

Oral presentation achievement

In the oral presentation category, the VSU-CON team earned third place for their study on Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on Antibiotics among Convenience Store Owners of Selected Barangays in Baybay City, Leyte.

Authored by Bil Aubrey P. Abella, Maria Thyrza H. Bacasno, Mariel P. Ballais, Jeranel P. Dagami, Angel D. Manawatao, Sheena Jane S. Salva, Devianne Jane E. Daiz, and Janet Alexis A. De los Santos, this study examined convenience store owners' understanding and practices regarding antibiotic sales, focusing on informal channels that contribute to inappropriate antibiotic distribution. 

The findings underscored the need for stricter regulation and education among small business owners to prevent misuse and over-the-counter distribution without prescriptions.

A Celebration of Excellence in Health Research

The EVHRDC symposium provided VSU nursing students with a platform to present their findings and contribute to the region's health research landscape. 

Their success reflects the college’s dedication to developing student researchers capable of addressing health issues with practical, community-centered solutions. 

The wins in both poster and oral presentations showcase the college’s emphasis on quality research and a proactive approach to pressing health issues, particularly those that directly affect communities in Leyte.

As VSU-CON celebrates this achievement, the college remains committed to fostering a culture of research and academic excellence. 

This recognition from the EVHRDC not only brings honor to the college but also highlights the institution’s role in shaping future health professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on public health.