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Reduction of post-ECT memory complaints through brief, partial restricted environmental stimulation (REST)
P Suedfeld1, C E Ramirez, R A Remick
1Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Reduced environmental stimulation (REST) after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) significantly reduced patient memory loss complaints. Patients in REST rooms reported fewer memory issues compared to those on the general hospital ward.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Environmental Psychology
Background:
- A prior study indicated reduced complaints of memory loss in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) patients exposed to Reduced Environmental Stimulation (REST) post-procedure.
- This preliminary finding warrants further investigation in a larger patient cohort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of REST on subjective memory complaints following ECT.
- To compare memory complaints between patients in a REST environment and those on a standard hospital ward.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen patients undergoing ECT were studied, with 13 completing four testing sessions.
- Patients were allocated to either a REST room or a standard hospital ward (Ward) after ECT.
- Subjective memory complaints were assessed, alongside objective memory tests.
Main Results:
- Objective memory tests revealed no significant changes attributable to ECT in either group.
- Initially, both groups reported significant memory disruption after the first ECT session.
- By one-week follow-up, REST patients reported minimal memory complaints, while Ward patients showed only a slight decrease.
Conclusions:
- REST significantly mitigates subjective memory complaints following ECT.
- Environmental context immediately after ECT plays a crucial role in patient-reported cognitive side effects.
- REST may be a valuable adjunctive therapy to improve patient experience after ECT.