Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

In this lesson, we will define electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and determine why this treatment is used in mental health disorders.  We will identify some of the disorders that ECT is effective in treating and discuss why clients choose this treatment method. There are many safety considerations and potential side effects of this treatment so we will focus on many of the priority nursing interventions before, during, and after an ECT treatment.  Finally, client education after ECT is very important and we will review education topics including potential side effects, methods of education, and safety considerations.

Learning Objectives:

Upon the completion of this lesson, learners will be able to:

1. Define electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
2. Describe risk factors and side effects of ECT
3. Identify examples of nursing interventions before and after ECT treatments