Nursing 215 Fall 2013 Cayuga Community College

Treatment is safe and effective Used for patients who have not responded to medication regimens Electrically induced seizures for therapeutic benefit Stephanie Bizzari Hannah Ivery MaryBeth Smart

Treats symptoms
associated with a variety of Mental Health disorders

Has been used as a treatment approach since the 1930s

ElectroConvulsive Therapy (ECT)

What is ECT?
ECT is a form of therapy that involves the placement of electrodes on the patients scalp and a finely controlled electric current is applied while the patient is under general anesthesia. The currents cause a brief seizure in the brain.

What to Expect
Pretreatment:
There may be dietary restrictions due to undergoing general anesthesia An IV line may be inserted A thorough physical and psychiatric exam is completed Electrodes are placed on the patients forehead A muscle relaxant will be given

Who benefits from ECT?

Patients diagnosed with depression, major depressive disorder, mania, schizoaffective disorder, mixed affective state, and other mental health disorders benefit from ECT.

What are the side effects?

Side effects include headache, muscle pain, nausea and confusion.

During treatment:
Vital signs are monitored and an ECG monitors patient A generalized seizure is induced Patient generally only displays a rhythmic movement of the hand or foot. Patient awakens 3-5 minutes after treatment

What are the benefits?

The benefits of ECT include symptom improvement.

When is ECT indicated?

ECT is indicated for patients who have not shown improvement using a prescribed medication regime or for patients experience suicidal thoughts.

ECT is a safe and effective therapy treatment for patients who have not responded to medication.

Posttreatment:

Who performs ECT?

ECT is performed by a team of healthcare professionals including Psychiatrists, Respiratory Therapists, Anesthesiologists, and other assistants. It can be performed in an inpatient or outpatient setting.

Someone must be present to drive the patient home Alertness and orientation generally returns within 45 minutes of treatment completion. Mild side effects may be experienced Disorientation lasts from 5-45 minutes

What are the risks?

The risks associated with ECT are mostly associated with complications related to general anesthesia.

How long is treatment?

Treatment generally occurs 3x per week for 2-4 weeks.