Conocimientos sobre Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2 en Estudiantes de La Carrera de Enfermería Campus Azogues, periodo Marzo – agosto 2025

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic and multifactorial disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Inadequate knowledge about the disease, together with poor self-care practices, can lead to serious but preventable complications. Therefore, it is crucial that nursing students receive solid training, both in clinical knowledge and in self-care strategies. Objective: To analyze the level of knowledge about Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Nursing students at the Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues Campus, during the period March – August 2025. Methodology: This was descriptive non-experimental research using the DKQ-24 questionnaire, administered to nursing students of the Azogues Campus between March and August 2025. The study sample consisted of 100 students from the 5th, 6th, and 7th academic semesters. Statistical analysis was performed using frequencies, percentages, and association tests (Chi-square). Results: In the three academic cycles evaluated, an intermediate level of knowledge about Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) was predominant. The greatest strengths were observed in the basic aspects of the disease, while significant conceptual errors persisted in pathophysiology, non-pharmacological management, and prevention of complications. No statistically significant relationship was found between the academic cycle and the level of knowledge (p = 0.239). Conclusion: Although students demonstrated acceptable general knowledge about T2DM, significant conceptual gaps were identified that should be addressed within the curriculum through integrative pedagogical strategies and practical activities.

Keywords: knowledge, health attitudes and practices, type 2 diabetes mellitus, students, nursing education