Knowledge level of preeclampsia in pregnant women, province of Santo Domingo, Ecuador

Introduction: Preeclampsia is a health problem that is among the main causes of maternal death and prematurity. It has an unknown etiology and is multifactorial in nature. This research was conducted with the aim of identifying the level of knowledge about preeclampsia in pregnant women. Methods: A descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study was conducted in 61 pregnant women treated in 2 health institutions in Santo Domingo, Ecuador, selected in a non-randomized manner. A survey was applied consisting of 26 dichotomous questions with yes or no answers, classified by definition (3 questions), signs and symptoms (7 questions), risk factors (9 questions) and prenatal care (7 questions). The level of knowledge was classified as high (greater than 20), medium (16 to 20) and low (less than 16 points). Results: 54,1 % had a high school education as their highest academic level, 37,7 % reported having had 2 pregnancies, 65,6 % had at least one abortion. Regarding the level of knowledge; 31,2 % obtained an average level in signs and symptoms of preeclampsia, 31,1 % presented a high level on risk factors for preeclampsia, 11,5 % of the patients belonging to the San Agusto Egas Health Center had a low level; 62,3 % obtained a high level and 37,7 % an average level on prenatal care. Conclusions: A medium level of knowledge about preeclampsia was found among the pregnant women surveyed, highlighting the area of prenatal care, where no participant was classified as having low knowledge.