Download Electroconvulsive Therapy

Electroconvulsive Therapy
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Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
• ECT is the induction of a grand mal (generalized) seizure
through the application of electrical current to the brain.
• Stimulus is applied through electrodes placed bilaterally
in the frontotemporal region or unilaterally on the same
side as the dominant hand.
• Dose of stimulation is based on the client’s seizure
threshold, which is highly variable among individuals.
• The duration of the seizure should be at least 25
seconds.
• Usually administered every other day, for three times
per week; most clients need 6 to 12 treatments.
Indications
• ECT has been shown to be effective in the treatment of
severe depression. It is usually not considered the
treatment of choice for depression but may be
administered after a trial of therapy with antidepressant
medication.
• ECT is also indicated in the treatment of acute manic
episodes of bipolar affective disorder. It has been shown
to be effective in treating manic clients who are
refractory to antimanic drug therapy.
• ECT can induce a remission in some clients who are
diagnosed with acute schizophrenia, but it seems to be
of little value in the treatment of chronic schizophrenia.
Contraindications
• The only absolute contraindication for ECT is
increased intracranial pressure (from brain tumor,
recent CVA, or other cerebrovascular lesion).
• Individuals at high risk with ECT include those
with myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular
accident within the preceding 3 months, aortic or
cerebral aneurysm, severe underlying
hypertension, and congestive heart failure.
Side Effects
• The most common side effects are temporary
memory loss and confusion.