Objective:

To determine the level of knowledge about Chagas disease that nursing students possess in a higher education institution in the department of Santander.

Materials and methods:

Cross-sectional study, with students of VIII and X nursing level. For the collection of information, a questionnaire based on nursing outcome indicators was applied: knowledge of the disease process related to Chagas. A univariate and bivariate descriptive analysis of the information was carried out presenting qualitative variables by absolute and relative frequencies, quantitative variables through median and range, test hypothesis by Mann Whitney U.

Results:

Statistically significant evidence is present in the process indicators of the disease and complications of the disease, value p <0.02. Regarding the indicator process of the disease, 48.7% of the students obtained substantial classified knowledge and 29% moderate knowledge. 55.3% have knowledge of the complications of the disease, being substantial; Similar degree of knowledge was obtained in indicators: measures to minimize the progression of the disease (60.5%) and causes or contributing factors (52.6%); in the indicator of signs and symptoms of the disease, 52.6% of the students obtained extensive knowledge, with a NOC score of 5.

Conclusion:

The indicator that showed a greater degree of knowledge of Chagas disease by students was signs and symptoms with extensive knowledge. This level obtained is crucial for the diagnosis, early treatment and control of the disease by the health team.

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