Component Task: Caring for a Patient After Electro-Convulsive Therapy (ECT) on the Ward

These are activities organized and coordinated by the nurse to ensure the safety of the patient following the administration of ECT to prevent its complication and control side effects.

Aims

·         Control side effects

·         Prevent and manage complications if any

·         Monitor the progress of recovery

Requirements

This depends on the specific problems or complication that arise during E.CT. Generally, the following will be required:

·         Vital signs tray

·         BP apparatus

·         Ambu bag

·         Oxygen cylinder

·         Glass of water

·         Bed with side rails

·         Patient’s folder (Electronic/Manual)

·         TPR and BP chart

Steps

1.        Advance Preparation

a.      Assemble equipment required

b.      Develop goals for post E.C.T care

·         Identify any injuries sustained

·         Preventing complications

·         Identify assisting nurse(s)

2.      Receive and welcome patient back to the ward

3.      Ensure that patient gets enough rest

4.      Inform ward in-charge if patient complains of severe headache for the necessary attention

5.      Help patient out of bed and assist him/her rinse the mouth when fully conscious

6.      Remind patient that side effects of E.C.T. are temporary

7.       Assess patient’s orientation to time, place and person

8.      Serve medication and meals and encourage him/her to eat

9.      Inform patient of the next session of the therapy

10.    Allow patient to continue with his/her daily activities

11.      Document and record any observations and any treatment given in nurses’ notes/patient’s folder