Electroconvulsive therapy. The perioperative process

Although ECT is not a typical procedure performed in the surgical suite, the OR does provide a safe environment for the patient. With an anesthesiologist backup and a fully equipped postanesthesia care unit available, the staff is well equipped to deal with any adverse reactions. Many people, including health professionals, have reservations about ECT. Such views are usually formed by inaccurate media portrayals of the treatment. One successful method to overcome these misunderstandings is education. Gradually, with the interdepartmental preceptorship, in-service education sessions, and interactions with patients, the OR staff working with the ECT program at St Joseph Hospital and Health Care Center grew to accept and understand the treatment. Based on our experience, ECT can be an effective, well-planned method of treatment for some psychopathological conditions.