Accuracy of capillary and venous glucose screening in students of the clinical laboratory degree at the state University of the South of Manabí

Abstract

The research evaluated the accuracy of these methods (capillary and venous) in diagnosing diabetes. Given the high prevalence of this chronic disease, it was considered essential to have reliable diagnostic tools for its effective management. A non-experimental, descriptive, cross-sectional cohort study was carried out, using capillary and venous blood samples voluntarily provided by students. The data were statistically analyzed using Cohen's Kappa coefficient to determine the agreement between both methods. The results showed a moderate but significant agreement (Kappa = 0.488, P < 0.001). However, venous screening presented greater accuracy in detecting high glucose levels, standing out as the most reliable method for diagnosis and monitoring. It was concluded that, although the capillary method was useful in less complex scenarios, the venous method was more accurate, highlighting its importance in educational and clinical contexts. This study highlighted the need to implement quality standards that optimize the accuracy of devices and improve diagnostic practices.