Lorma Colleges Institutional Research Forum 2026

Utilization of Lead Aprons Among Radiologic Technologists: A Basis for Strengthening Radiation Protection

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Utilization of Lead Aprons Among Radiologic Technologists: A Basis for Strengthening Radiation Protection Jea Chelsie B. Garcia; Dimple Jane C. Joaquin; Joan Reimaj L. Mohammed; Bill Frank R. Nacal; Yvonne G. Romero This study aimed to determine the utilization of lead aprons among radiologic technologists in private and government hospitals in the City of San Fernando, La Union as a basis for strengthening radiation protection practices. A descriptive-quantitative and comparative research design was employed involving forty-two (42) registered radiologic technologists selected through total enumeration. A validated researcher-made questionnaire was utilized to gather data regarding the demographic profile of respondents and their level of lead apron utilization. Data were analyzed using frequency count, percentage, weighted mean, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Findings revealed that most respondents were young professionals with limited years of experience and Continuing Education Unit (CEU) participation. The level of utilization of lead aprons was high in both private and government hospitals. However, ANOVA results showed no statistically significant difference in lead apron utilization between hospital types (p = 0.602), indicating similar compliance with radiation protection practices regardless of institutional setting. The findings suggest that radiologic technologists consistently adhere to radiation safety protocols influenced by professional training and standardized institutional guidelines. Strengthening continuing education and radiation safety monitoring is recommended to further sustain and improve compliance with lead apron utilization.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Caregivers Toward Spacer Device Use in Pediatric Asthma Management in San Fernando City, La Union

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Caregivers Toward Spacer Device Use in Pediatric Asthma Management in San Fernando City, La Union John Kervin M. Laranang; Cydnie Jane Alvarado; Mylene Galima; Charmaine Rollan; Andrei Ceazar Solis; Abdirizak Yasir This study examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of caregivers toward spacer device use in pediatric asthma management in San Fernando City, La Union. The research targeted caregivers of children aged 1 to 12 years who had been prescribed metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), using total enumeration across all public primary schools in the city. A total of 125 caregivers of the 254 identified pediatric MDI users were reported to be spacer users and were included as respondents. Data were collected through a structured, close-ended questionnaire administered in schools and through home visits when caregivers were not present. The study employed a descriptive-correlational quantitative design to assess caregivers’ KAP levels and determine differences and relationships concerning their demographic characteristics. Findings revealed that most caregivers were female, middle-aged, and belonged to the low income but not poor group. Overall, the caregivers demonstrated adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and good practices regarding spacer use. Significant differences in KAP were observed according to educational attainment (p < .001) and monthly income (p < .05), indicating that higher education and better financial capacity enhanced proper spacer use. Strong positive correlations were also found between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.885, p < .001) and between knowledge and practice (r = 0.878, p < .001), demonstrating the interconnected nature of these domains. These results underscore the need for continuous caregiver education and support. Based on the findings, strategies such as infomercial dissemination, educational seminars, and brochure distribution were proposed to improve caregiver understanding and consistent use of spacers in pediatric asthma management.

Surfing Proficiency Levels and Frequency of Upper Extremity Injuries

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Surfing Proficiency Levels and Frequency of Upper Extremity Injuries Saint Relly Bartfermil A. Landingin; Katrina A. Gaerlan; Vienna Grace Donnor; Frances Ruth Gaoiran The rapid global growth of surfing has been accompanied with multiple factors associated with risk of injury, yet local studies remain limited in examining occurrence and impact of upper extremity injuries among surfers. This quantitative descriptive-correlational study examined whether surfing proficiency is associated with upper extremity injury frequency among surfers in San Juan, La Union, using a structured survey questionnaire and Spearman’s rank-order correlation for analysis. The results showed that respondents were generally competent surfers, with an overall proficiency grand mean of 3.06, while upper extremity injuries occurred rarely in terms of both type and severity, with grand means of 2.00 and 1.94 respectively; rotator cuff strain was the most commonly reported injury. Statistical testing found no significant relationship between surfing proficiency and either the type or impact of upper extremity injuries, so the null hypothesis was accepted. In conclusion, the study suggests that skill level alone does not explain injury occurrence, and that other factors such as surfing conditions, training frequency, physical conditioning, and equipment use may play a larger role.

Screening of Kidney Dysfunction and its Associated Risk Factors among Public School Learners in La Union National High School, City of San Fernando, La Union

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Screening of Kidney Dysfunction and its Associated Risk Factors among Public School Learners in La Union National High School, City of San Fernando, La Union Jonna H. Leal; Chelsea Mirielle C. Macuroy; Maurice Jack M. Panelo; Kyla Valerie S. Saydoquis; Sean Daeniel D. Villarico This study aimed to detect early signs of kidney dysfunction and its relationship with physiological, demographic, and behavioral risk factors among public secondary learners at La Union National High School. Using a descriptive-correlational research design, 20 participants (65% male, 35% female) underwent urinalysis screening, including albumin-creatinine ratio (ACR), alongside physiological profiling and structured questionnaires. Findings showed a high prevalence of abnormal renal markers, with 18 of 20 respondents (90%) identified by the physician as having kidney dysfunction, while 2 (10%) were normal. Among abnormal cases, hematuria was detected in 15 (75%) respondents, proteinuria (albuminuria) in 14 (70%), and bilirubinuria in 12 (60%) based on urinalysis parameters. Physiological assessment revealed that 50% had abnormal Body Mass Index and 55% had abnormal core temperature, while most maintained normal blood pressure. However, one-way ANOVA showed no significant differences between kidney dysfunction and age, gender, BMI, pulse rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Participants demonstrated “excellent” hydration practices (mean = 3.26) and “good” dietary and drug intake habits, yet these behaviors had no significant association with kidney dysfunction findings. The results emphasize the need for early school-based kidney screening and confirmatory testing among learners who may appear asymptomatic or low-risk.