Publication
Abstract:Rescuers in the Philippines face significant physical and emotional challenges during disaster operations. The absence of a formal Emergency Medical Services (EMS) law, along with limited research on the lived experiences of rescuers, and the geographical location of the country, has contributed to fragmented and inconsistent disaster response efforts.This study aimed to uncoverthe essential experiences of Ilokano rescuers during the onslaught of Typhoon Maring in the 2nd district of Ilocos Sur. A descriptive phenomenological design was employedto explore deeper on the phenomenon, and data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews with nine local responders who were directly involved in the rescue operations.Thematic analysis revealed three major themes: (1) Emotional Capacity, which encompassed a range of emotional experiences such as fear, sadness, trauma, and contentment; (2) Myriad Obstacles, which included barriers to effective rescue such as a lack of rescuers, limited resources, resistance from affected individuals, gender role limitations, and environmental challenges; and (3) Support Received, referring to the interventions and assistance provided by both workplaces and families during and after rescue operations.These findings underscore the urgent need for a unified EMS framework in the Philippines to enhance coordination, ensure responder safety, and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, sustainable support systems that address the psychological and professional needs of rescuers are critical to strengthening the country’s overall emergency preparedness and response capacity.
Keywords:ilokanorescuers, filipino EMS, descriptive phenomenology
Abstract:Introduction: Health-seeking behavior in dog bite patients refers to individuals' choices in seeking medical care based on factors like injury severity and healthcare access. There are common barriers to seeking health care, such as inaccessibility of health facilities and insufficient money to buy a vaccine. Hence, a study on the health-seeking behavior of dog bite patients is believed to provide additional information to health workers so that they can conduct programs and activities to improve or enhance the health-seeking behavior of the people. Objectives: The study dealt with the health-seeking behavior of dog bite patients in the three selected municipalities in the first and second districts of Ilocos Sur for the Calendar Year 2021. It determined the relationship between the health-seeking behavior and the socio-demographic and dog bite-related factors of the respondents. Methods: The study used the descriptive-correlational method of research. All 129 dog bite patients from the municipalities of Santa, Santo Domingo, and Magsingal for the period January to July 2021 served as the study's respondents. Results: The respondents' health-seeking behavior was described as Good. Among the three key indicators, perceived susceptibility obtained the highest mean rating, indicating strong awareness of their vulnerability to health risks. While no significant correlations were observed between most socio-demographic factors and health-seeking behavior, family membership classification and age showed significant relationships with overall health-seeking behavior. Conclusions: The level of health-seeking behavior results from the respondents’ adherence to the health workers' advice in the animal bite center where they sought consultation. Health workers must always conduct health education in routine follow-ups, focusing on the benefit of proper wound care for dog bites and receiving prescribed immunizations to improve health-seeking behavior. The Animal Bite Centers are encouraged monitor and encourage the community to ensure compliance with the vaccination of dogs and dog bite patients.
On-going
- Menopause-Specific Health Problems Among Women: Basis for Extension Services (HN-24-2)
- Problems and Coping Mechanisms of Students Affiliates/ Interns at the College of Health Sciences: Basis for a Proposed Internship Program (SS-24-22)
- CHS Extension Project (Midwives at your CERVIX: Caring for you, Caring for Life Project) (SS-24-25)
- Tracer Study of the Graduates in the College of Health Sciences (E-25-13)
Awards
Sorry, but there’s nothing here.
Presentation
- Menopausal Symptoms and Management Practices among Women: Basis for Extension Services (2025)
- Problems and Coping Mechanisms of the Health Sciences Student Affiliates: Basis for Pre-Internship Program (2025)
- Encounters of Typhoon Rescuers: A Phenomenological Inquiry (2024)
Citations
Sorry, but there’s nothing here.
IP Registration
Others (Peer Review, Research Consultancy)
Sorry, but there’s nothing here.