Citation

Challiner V, Griffiths L. J. Psychiatr. Ment. Health Nurs. 2000; 7(3): 191-198.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1046/j.1365-2850.2000.00282.x

PMID

11249311

Abstract

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a procedure that has been used in the treatment of mental illness for over 60 years. Despite its continued use it remains a controversial treatment, with questions concerning its efficacy being raised not only by mental health professionals, but also service users themselves. The following article reviews the current literature on the administration and effectiveness of ECT, highlighting some of the main points of contention in the debate over its use. In providing a balanced review of the literature, this article aims to serve as an information source for nurses and other mental health professionals who may be involved in the administration of ECT and care of the patients receiving treatment.

Language: en

Keywords

Depressive Disorder; Electroconvulsive Therapy; Humans; Psychiatric Nursing; Suicide Prevention