Is ECT safe?

Yes, ECT is safe. Before the treatment series begins, the patient receives a full medical work-up consisting of laboratory work, EKG, x-rays of the chest and in certain instances, the spine. Medical clearance by a primary care physician is also required.

Where are treatments performed?

Treatment is done at the Princeton Surgical Center, a unit of Princeton HealthCare System. Anesthesia is provided by a board certified anesthesiologist. Blood pressure, pulse, respiration, electrocardiogram, encephalogram and oxygen saturation are continually monitored by an ALCS certified registered nurse.

What is it like to have an ECT treatment?

The patient is prepared for the treatment by a registered nurse who will set up the monitoring equipment and start an intravenous line. Anesthesia will be administered throught the intravenous line and the patient will be asleep for three to five minutes. When the patient awakes, the treatment will have already been completed. After resting for about a half an hour, the patient will proceed to a lounge for some light refreshment and get dressed. Inpatients will return to Princeton House Behavioral Health. Outpatients will return home with a responsible adult.

Does ECT hurt? Are there any side effects?

ECT does not hurt. Possible side effects include headache, nausea (immediately after treatment), muscle ache and short-term memory loss of events preceding and during the treatment period. Significant and permanent memory loss is rare and people return to their normal routines after a recovery period.

How many treatments do you receive and how long is the treatment period?

ECT is given three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, for a series of six to 12 treatments. The number of treatments given depends on the severity of the depressive symptoms and the patient's response to treatments.

Are there any limitations of activity during the treatment period?

The patient may not drive a car or operate any heavy mechanical equipment the day of treatment. Otherwise, participation in normal daily routines can proceed to the best of the patient's ability.

When can you return to work?

The decision to return to work, school and other regular activities is made on an individual basis. Some people return to work very quickly, while others may choose to take a few weeks to recover.

How do I decide whether or not to have ECT?

The decision is the patient's. Recommendations of the treating psychiatrist, past history, and severity of illness must all be evaluated by the patient when making the decision. The ECT nurse coordinator is available to discuss any issues or concerns.

For more information regarding the ECT program at Princeton House Behavioral Health, please call 609.497.3300.