ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY: ASSISTING WITH

Course overview

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a procedure in which seizures are induced in an anesthetized patient by application of electric current through electrodes placed on the patient’s head. ECT is a safe and effective treatment for various psychiatric disorders (e.g., major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia), in which tonic-clonic seizures are induced for 30–60 seconds. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of assisting with ECT, including the step-by-step process and benefits and risks associated with the procedure. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.