The Spouse of a Patient Who Is Scheduled for ECT

question 22

Multiple Choice

The spouse of a patient who is scheduled for ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) asks,"Isn't this a risky treatment? I know pills haven't worked,but this seems barbaric to me." Which response to the question is of greatest therapeutic communication value?

• A) "Although no treatment is perfect, research has proven that this therapy has the same risk as minor surgery and actually presents a lower risk than medication."
• B) "The psychiatrist would not order a treatment that would place your spouse in any real danger. I've seen many patients respond well to this treatment."
• C) "That's an understandable concern. However, you've been misled by outdated information that stigmatizes ECT treatment."
• D) "You appear to be very concerned about consenting to the treatment. I'd suggest you discuss this with your spouse's health care provider."

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Definitions:

Motive

A psychological feature that arouses an organism to action toward a desired goal; the reason for the action.

Drive

An innate, biologically determined urge to attain a goal or satisfy a need.

Ghrelin Protein

A hormone produced mainly by the stomach that stimulates appetite and signals the brain to increase food intake.

Leptin Protein

A hormone produced by fat cells that helps to regulate body weight by signaling satiety to the brain.