Journal of Health Sciences and Medical Development

Technical, Physical, and Academic Challenges in Online Learning

2026-08-24T02:19:41+00:00

The rapid integration of digital technologies in higher education has transformed the teaching and learning process, particularly in nursing education where flexibility and accessibility are essential. This study examined the challenges of online learning and their repercussions on the academic performance and student engagement of BSN 1J students enrolled in NCM 103 (Foundations of Nursing Practice) at the University of Saint Anthony during the Second Semester of School Year 2025–2026. Specifically, the study investigated students’ demographic profile, challenges encountered in online learning, the relationship between demographic characteristics and online learning challenges, and the effects of these challenges on academic performance and engagement. A descriptive-correlational research design with an evaluative approach was employed. The respondents consisted of forty (40) nursing students selected through total enumeration sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered through Google Forms. Frequency counts, percentages, weighted means, and the Chi-Square Test of Independence were utilized to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the respondents generally experienced challenges related to technical adaptability, internet access and equipment, physical health barriers, academic engagement, and attitudes toward online learning. Internet connectivity and access to learning devices emerged as the most significant challenges, while headaches, eye strain, and back fatigue were commonly reported physical health concerns. Students also experienced difficulties in time management, maintaining motivation, and sustaining active participation in online classes. These challenges negatively affected students’ concentration, learning efficiency, academic performance, and engagement. The study concludes that online learning presents multidimensional challenges that require comprehensive institutional support. Strengthening technological infrastructure, improving access to learning resources, providing technical assistance, and implementing student-centered support programs are recommended to enhance academic success and engagement among nursing students in online learning environments.

Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Perinatal Anxiety in Primigravida Women at Primary Health Care

2026-08-24T02:19:44+00:00

Perinatal anxiety among primigravida women is a significant yet frequently overlooked maternal mental health concern. This study analyzed the biopsychosocial dimensions of perinatal anxiety among primigravida women in primary health care settings using a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. The quantitative phase involved 171 primigravida women recruited through stratified proportional random sampling from two primary health care centers, who completed the Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS). The qualitative phase included 15 informants with anxiety scores above 21 who participated in in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using Chi-Square tests, while qualitative data were processed through NVivo 12 Plus following the Miles and Huberman framework. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Research Ethics Committee of Universitas 'Aisyiyah Yogyakarta (No. 1453/KEP-UNISA/IV/2022). The results showed that 39.2% of respondents experienced anxiety (17.5% mild, 18.7% moderate, and 2.9% severe), with a significant association between gestational trimester and anxiety level (p = 0.041). The second trimester exhibited the highest proportion of anxiety at 56.0%. Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: forms of maternal discomfort, antenatal care access experiences, and biopsychosocial dimensions of anxiety encompassing biological, psychological, socioeconomic, environmental, and social support factors. Pearson correlation identified psychological factors (r = 0.95) and social support (r = 0.85) as dominant determinants. The biopsychosocial model proved effective as a comprehensive framework for understanding perinatal anxiety in primary care. These findings provide an evidence-based foundation for holistic maternal mental health interventions and underscore the necessity of routine anxiety screening, strengthened counseling services, and structured social support programs within antenatal care.

Improving Adolescent HIV/AIDS Knowledge through Video-Based Health Education: A School-Based Study in Indonesia

2026-08-24T02:19:39+00:00

HIV/AIDS remains a significant global and national public health problem every year. Adolescents are a group highly vulnerable to HIV/AIDS transmission because of the transitional phase marked by high curiosity, which leads them to seek information from various sources that are not necessarily accurate. This study aimed to determine the effect of health education using video media about HIV/AIDS on adolescent knowledge at SMP Negeri 1 Godean. This study was a pre-experimental study with a one-group pretest-posttest design. The sample consisted of 128 respondents selected using a total sampling technique. The data collection instrument used was a questionnaire. The data collection tool used was a questionnaire. Following the health education session using video media, respondents' knowledge levels showed a marked increase, with 127 respondents (99.22%) in the good category and 1 respondent (0.78%) in the fair category. The results of the Wilcoxon statistical test showed a p-value of 0.00, Z = -9.822 for knowledge. A statistically significant increase in adolescent knowledge was found following health education using video media on HIV/AIDS at SMP Negeri 1 Godean, Yogyakarta. Respondents are expected to maintain this knowledge to avoid deviant behavior and increase concern for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA).

Cultural Adaptation and Support Resources among Filipino Migrant Nurses in a UK Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study

2026-08-24T02:19:37+00:00

Internationally recruited nurses must adapt not only to new healthcare systems but also to unfamiliar cultural and social environments. This study examined cultural adaptation and support resources among Filipino migrant nurses employed at Darlington Memorial Hospital in the United Kingdom and explored associations with selected demographic and employment characteristics. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 26 Filipino nurses recruited through purposive sampling. Participants completed a self-developed, expert-validated questionnaire using a four-point Likert-type scale. The analysis focused on cultural adaptation and support system domains. Descriptive statistics and exploratory Pearson correlation analyses were performed. Participants reported generally favorable cultural adaptation (mean = 3.08). Managing cultural differences in the workplace received the highest rating (mean = 3.35), whereas participation in local community events was lowest (mean = 2.42). Perceived support resources were also favorable overall (mean = 3.11). Maintaining contact with family and friends in the Philippines received the highest rating (mean = 3.85), while access to housing assistance was lowest (mean = 2.46). Cultural adaptation was significantly associated with age (r = .55, p = .003), civil status (r = .64, p < .001), and length of service (r = .44, p = .026). Support resources were associated with age (r = .40, p = .041) and civil status (r = .58, p = .002). Findings suggest that workplace cultural adjustment may coexist with limited community integration and continued reliance on transnational family support. Targeted organizational support may facilitate broader adjustment.

Influence of Extracurricular Involvement on Stress Levels and Academic Achievement of College Students

2026-08-24T02:19:31+00:00

Higher education institutions are responsible not only for delivering academic instruction but also for fostering students’ holistic development. In the Philippines, this responsibility is reinforced by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through policies supporting student engagement beyond the classroom. This study examined the influence of extracurricular involvement on stress levels and academic achievement among college students at Mindanao State University–Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU TCTO). Specifically, it assessed students’ participation in sports, arts, and academic clubs, measured their stress levels and academic performance, and investigated the relationships among these variables. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed involving 30 college students selected as respondents. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank-order correlation. The findings indicated a high level of extracurricular involvement, with academic clubs recording the highest participation, followed by sports and arts activities. Students participating in sports reported low stress levels, whereas those engaged in arts and academic clubs experienced moderate stress. Overall, the respondents demonstrated good academic performance. Correlation analysis revealed no statistically significant relationship between extracurricular involvement and stress levels, nor between extracurricular involvement and academic achievement. These findings suggest that participation in extracurricular activities supports students’ leadership development, social interaction, creativity, and personal growth without compromising academic outcomes. The study concludes that extracurricular engagement remains an essential component of student development and recommends that higher education institutions continue strengthening extracurricular programs while providing comprehensive student support services that promote psychological well-being, balanced participation, academic success, and lifelong personal development.