CONOCIMIENTOS EN LAS PRÁCTICAS DE BIOSEGURIDAD DE LOS ESTUDIANTES DE LA CARRERA DE LABORATORIO CLÍNICO - UNIVERSIDAD DE CUENCA. SEPTIEMBRE - NOVIEMBRE 2025

Abstract

Biosafety comprises standards and procedures aimed at protecting healthcare personnel, patients, and the environment from biological, chemical, and physical hazards; it is essential for preventing accidents and the transmission of infections. Despite the existence of national and international regulations, compliance may vary, especially among students in training; therefore, it is necessary to assess their level of knowledge in order to identify gaps and guide reinforcement actions. The objective of this study was to determine knowledge of biosafety practices among students in the Clinical Laboratory Program at the University of Cuenca during the September 2025–February 2026 academic term. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among students enrolled during that term (n=152), using non-probability sampling. Data were collected through a survey developed for this research, reviewed by expert judgment, and pilot-tested. For interpretation, the total score was converted into a percentage using the formula (score obtained/maximum score) × 100 and classified according to Bloom’s cut-off points as low (<60%), moderate (60.0–79.99%), and high (≥80%). Based on this classification, the moderate level predominated (55.9%), followed by the high level (44.1%). Strengths were identified in sample handling and response to accidents/incidents (99.3% high level in both), as well as in the management of supplies and waste (90.1%) and the safe disposal of contaminated material (90.8%). In contrast, the main gaps were observed in handwashing (56.6% low level), use and handling of PPE (29.0% low level), and cleaning/disinfection (14.5% low level), indicating priority areas for reinforcement and supervision.