Knowledge Level in Pregnant Women About Gestational Syphilis in a First-Level Complexity Hospital in Cúcuta – Colombia

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational syphilis is considered one of the main causes of maternal and perinatal complications, with economic, social and health consequences of significant impact on health systems worldwide. Objective: To determine the level of knowledge about syphilis in pregnant women diagnosed with gestational syphilis in a first level hospital in Cúcuta - Colombia during the first semester of the year 2023. Materials and Methods: Quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study, with a sample of forty pregnant women diagnosed with gestational syphilis; enrolled in the prenatal control program. A sociodemographic survey and the questionnaire: Degree of knowledge of gestational syphilis, based on the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) criteria, were applied. Results: 23.5% had little knowledge in the infection control variable, determined by signs and symptoms (50.0%) and mode of transmission (75.0%). In the variable of prevention and treatment mechanisms, 36.8% reported poor knowledge, represented by the factors that contribute to infection (67.5%), practices that reduce infection (65.0%) and the importance of completing treatment (57.5%). Finally; 38.6% of the pregnant women presented poor knowledge in relation to the variable of control and follow-up. Conclusions: The level of knowledge about syphilis in pregnant women diagnosed with gestational syphilis was low; therefore, it becomes relevant to optimize the processes of information, education, and communication for maternal health.