During electroconvulsive therapy, which statement is true regarding anesthesia?

During electroconvulsive therapy, which statement is true regarding anesthesia?

• A. Anesthesia and muscle relaxant are given before; patient will be unconscious
• B. The patient remains fully awake during ECT
• C. Driving home after the procedure
• D. No anesthesia is used

Answer: (A)

An important safety step in electroconvulsive therapy is giving anesthesia along with a short-acting muscle relaxant before the seizure. This makes the patient unconscious so they do not feel pain or recall the procedure, and the muscle relaxant minimizes movements to prevent injury during the convulsion. Because of the anesthesia, the patient is not awake during the procedure. Afterward, they recover from the sedation and typically cannot drive themselves home, requiring someone to accompany them. Statements claiming no anesthesia is used, that the patient remains fully awake, or that driving home right after are not correct.

An important safety step in electroconvulsive therapy is giving anesthesia along with a short-acting muscle relaxant before the seizure. This makes the patient unconscious so they do not feel pain or recall the procedure, and the muscle relaxant minimizes movements to prevent injury during the convulsion. Because of the anesthesia, the patient is not awake during the procedure. Afterward, they recover from the sedation and typically cannot drive themselves home, requiring someone to accompany them. Statements claiming no anesthesia is used, that the patient remains fully awake, or that driving home right after are not correct.