Electroconvulsive therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Infectious Disease Control
• Medical Procedures

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted psychiatric care, necessitating adaptations in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) administration.
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) carries an elevated risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission without stringent precautions.
• Despite risks, ECT remains a critical treatment that cannot always be avoided for certain psychiatric conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss safety measures for reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
• To propose modifications in ECT practice to balance procedural risks and benefits amidst the pandemic.
• To provide guidance for the safe continuation of ECT during the COVID-19 public health crisis.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on infection control in medical settings.
• Analysis of potential transmission routes of SARS-CoV-2 during ECT procedures.
• Formulation of evidence-based recommendations for adapting ECT protocols.

Main Results:

• Identification of specific high-risk periods and actions during ECT for viral transmission.
• Development of a comprehensive set of protective measures, including personal protective equipment (PPE) and environmental controls.
• Suggested modifications to ECT procedures, such as patient and staff screening, and optimized treatment scheduling.

Conclusions:

• Implementing adapted safety protocols and procedural modifications can significantly mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission risks during ECT.
• Careful consideration of risk-benefit balance is crucial for continuing essential ECT services during the pandemic.
• These strategies aim to ensure patient safety and maintain the availability of ECT for those who require it.