A Patient Scheduled for an Initial ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) Treatment

question 17

Multiple Choice

A patient scheduled for an initial ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) treatment asks a nurse,"Isn't the electrical current dangerous?" Which response would be the most therapeutic?

• A) "The amount of electricity is very small and used for only a few seconds."
• B) "The chance of you being shocked is minimal; you won't feel anything."
• C) "There's a small chance of something going wrong; the risk is about the same as with minor surgery."
• D) "You're worried about being electrocuted, aren't you? Don't worry; there is no chance of that happening."

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Definitions:

Dissociative Identity Disorder

A psychological disorder characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states that control an individual's behavior at different times.

Physically Abused

Having suffered physical harm or injury by another person, often in a context of power imbalance or domestic violence.

Sexually Abused

A situation where an individual is subjected to unwanted sexual activity by another.

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder

A personality disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control, at the expense of flexibility, openness, and efficiency.