COVID-19: The Preferred Method of Testing of Senior High School Students, Parents/Guardians in St. Mary’s College, Quezon City

Abstract

Most studies conducted about COVID-19 testing methods mainly focused on the medical and scientific aspects, but only a few explored the awareness and preferences of individuals on it. This research will assess which testing method is worth the cost of COVID-19 testing in the community, particularly in schools with full face-to-face classes. This study will be significant since it aims to improve the regulations of facilities with close physical contact regarding which COVID-19 testing method should be utilized as clearance. Respondents for the study were the parents/guardians of Senior High School students in St. Mary’s College, Quezon City. The stratified random sampling represented at least half (50%) of the targeted population. The data collection was done by researchers from October 7 to October 14, 2022. It was discovered that most of the respondents are aware of both the RT-PCR testing method and the nasal Ag-RDT method. Most respondents used the nasal Ag-RDT and RT-PCR or only the nasal Ag-RDT. The cost rating of the RT-PCR testing method is somewhat expensive compared to the nasal Ag-RDT method, which is somewhat affordable. For the parents/guardians, the perceived effectiveness of both COVID-19 testing methods is moderately effective. For availability, the nasal Ag-RDT method is available most of the time, while the RT-PCR testing method is available some of the time. With 60% of the total responses, the RT-PCR testing method was the preferred COVID-19 testing method of the respondents. This study aims to benefit parents/guardians, schools, the Department of Health, and future researchers.