ECT therapy

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ECT is used to treat:
Depression that does not respond to antidepressants
- Elderly who experience severe side effects of medications
Can pregnant women receive ECT?

Yes, does not harm fetus.
ECT may also treat:

Actively suicidal clients while waiting for response to medications

Acute manic episodes (rapid cycling with very destructive behavior)
Procedure of ECT:
Consent
- Pre-Op
- Neuro Exam
- EKC
- Labs
Meds that increase the seizure threshold must be discontinued for several days or decreased.

MAOI and lithium discontinued 2 weeks before.
Must be NPO for 8-12 hours prior ECT.

Use bite guard

Use BP cuff to monitor effects to one side of arm.
ECT causes what?

memory loss
Increased risk in:
- Recent MI
- CVA
- Intracrainal mass lesion
ECT is not useful in:
- Developmental disabilities
- Chemical dependence
- Personality disorders
- Situation depression