The client scheduled for electroconvulsive therapy tells the nurse, “I’m so afraid. What will happen to me during the treatment?” Which of the following statements is most therapeutic for the nurse to make?
A. “You will be given medicine to relax you during the treatment.”
B. “The treatment will produce a controlled grand mal seizure.”
C. “The treatment might produce nausea and headache.”
D. “You can expect to be sleepy and confused for a time after the treatment.”
Correct Answer: A. “You will be given medicine to relax you during the treatment.”
Option A: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a medical procedure that is used as a treatment for mental illnesses such as depression and other mood disorders. Before the procedure, the client will receive medication that relaxes skeletal muscles and produces mild sedation.
Options B and D: These statements may increase the client’s anxiety level.
Option C: Nausea and headache are not associated with ECT.