Level of knowledge about the prevention of urinary tract infections in pregnant women treated at the San Lucas comprehensive health center, Chuquisaca, Bolivia, January- March 2025

Abstract

PROBLEM: What is the level of knowledge regarding the prevention of urinary tract infections in pregnant women attended at the San Lucas Comprehensive Health Center during January to March 2025?

OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of knowledge regarding the prevention of urinary tract infections in pregnant women attended at the San Lucas Comprehensive Health Center during January to March 2025.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a quantitative, observational, descriptive, cross- sectional study. A total of 42 participants were considered, consisting of all pregnant women who attended the San Lucas Health Center between January and March 2025. A 15-item questionnaire was administered, divided into questions assessing knowledge about UTIs and attitude toward prevention. Each correct answer was worth 1 point. Ten questions were scored on a scale of 0 to 10 points, with three levels of knowledge: low, medium, and high. Five questions were scored from 0 to 5 points, with two levels of attitude: inadequate and adequate.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that 81% of the participants had a medium level of knowledge regarding the prevention of UTIs, while only 5% achieved a high level of expertise. Regarding attitudes, 50% demonstrated adequate attitudes, whereas 50% exhibited inadequate attitudes. No statistically significant relationship was found between the level of knowledge and preventive attitudes (p = 0.08), suggesting that other factors may influence the preventive behaviors of pregnant women. The findings indicate that, although there is a moderate level of knowledge about UTI prevention, this does not necessarily translate into adequate preventive attitudes. It is recommended to complement educational strategies with practical interventions, interactive workshops, and awareness campaigns tailoredto the educational level of the pregnant women.