Knowledge on cytotechnology in a fourth level health care institution Conocimiento sobre la citohistotecnología en una institución prestadora de servicios de salud IV

Abstract

Introduction: the Colombian National Ministry of Education (MEN) recognized 420 higher education institutions (HEI) of which 243 (57.8%) offer technical and technological study programs. Human or animal tissue preparation and processing as aids to diagnosis requires understanding its theoretical principles and practical training. This profession is little known and plays a relevant role for diagnosing diseases. Objective: to determine the knowledge among health care personnel of a fourth level institution regarding the skills and competencies of a cytotechnologist. Methods: a cross-section study including workers of a health care institution (IPS). Epi-info 7 was used to calculate the sample size of 231. This work was approved by the research ethics committee. Results: 231 health care providers answered a questionnaire, median age 25 years (IQR: 22-31), 83.1% females, of which, 61.5% know the correct definition of cytotechnology and 49.3% relate cytotechnology with cancer prevention and control [screening] programs. Conclusions: the health care personnel of the institution were not acquainted with the activities and functions of a cytotechnologist or the tissue fixation, processing and transportation procedures. An inappropriate sample can affect pathology results impacting morbidity rates causing hospital administrative issues.